…. *checks calendar* Shoot. I’ve lost track of time again.

Well, I’m here if you’d like to continue.

Yay. I wanna start, do you mind?

The morning sun beams down on the house and through the windows. Erik, the large Atherusian dragon staying there, could feel the webs of sleep peeling away as consciousness steadily returned.
Chesh: Hey. What'cha doin'?
Only to find a weight atop of him. Opening his eyes, he's met face-to-face with a feline of infamous repute staring back at him with a cheeky grin.

(Not at all ^^ I apologize for the delay)

Erik: *yawns as he gradually stirs, the effort of waking up aided through the efforts of the feline on top of him. In spite of said feline’s infamous repute, the dragon had come to regard him as a pseudo-ally of sorts. A helpful guide to figuring out how to proceed in some of the events. So Erik was happy to nod in greeting, curious why he was there.* Ah, good morning Chesh. I was just waking up. What brings you to my room, if I may ask?

Chesh: Mmm, Crey is in a bad mood today. I suggest you do something about that, or I will. *begins kneading Erik's blubber with his claws* Mmm, well I might. But I bet you've got a busy schedule today, as always. Maybe I'll visit Atherus instead.

Erik: Eh? *moves to sit up* Well if I can, I will. Might I ask your council on what the matter is with him? *looks to think* I mean, last I checked, we had a day of dungeon delving planned, the Creator and I. And Lit Gill, though I believe the Creator wouldn’t mind another food dungeon. *In hindsight, he probably could have spent more time with the Creator’s children as well, though that was often a spontaneous activity.*

Chesh: *chuckles* Is it not reason enough that he has to see your face? *begins grooming himself* ...Although, if you ask me, I'd get pretty pissy too if I had my eyes on something that got taken before I could get my chance. *hops off the bed, stretching his body before it starts fading away* Anyway, he should be here soon, so you'd better get your chefs or your DJs prepared.

Erik: *rolls his eyes* Come now, be serious. *He knew Chesh was capable of speaking plainly about an issue. Or at least providing a hint, like he just did.* Well, I will try to speak with him, if he wishes to talk about it. *If nothing else, maybe he’d try to let this be another day where the Creator chose the activity and destination. Eying the doorway, the grand dragon winced slightly* Or y’know, maybe I’ll encourage him to embody Hiro and nudge my food towards him. *still, with some grunts, pushes and deep breaths, he managed to work his widened form out through the doorway and into the halls of the house. Entering the courtyard, he saw a familiar scene amongst his allies. The chefs needed little invitation to begin preparing breakfast, for both the big and burly gluttons to those more slender seeking the energy to fuel their training or the day’s activity. He spied Sirius conversing with his siblings, gathering that they were discussing who might go to the dungeons today if they were still doing so. What thing he didn’t see, at least right away, made him grimace.* I’m not sure we have any DJs…hm, well if need be we can improvise. Phone in the show group their willing and available… although… *eyes a white python with red markings and a brown boar in a black casual suit.* Options are always good. *For the moment, he went over to inform the chefs if might be a busier mealtime than usual.*

Creator: I'm so maaad!
*In as extravagant and over-the-top as one could think of, there was an explosion of smoke off to the side. Loud music could be heard as the Creator, using Jun's body, sauntered out from the smoke cloud with a retro-looking boombox on his shoulder. As he did, he had his free arm up, he does a twirl, and stumbles as his feet catch each other on the grass, and he spins his arm around as he takes a second to catch his balance again.*
Creator Jun: I'm gonna wreck everythiiing!
Tech Drake: *opens the window* Dad, what the hell!?
Lit Gill: *appears and approaches everyone* Oooh, music!
Creator Jun: Erik! Do a Fat World again!
Lit Gill: What?
Creator Jun: I said I'm gonna wreck everything!
Tech Elly: Turn the dang music down!
Creator Jun: Whaaat?
Lit Gill: I think he said he wants a mech LCD!
Tech Drake: A tech elementary?
Creator Jun: I said- *turns the boombox off* I said I'm gonna wreck everything.
Lit Gill: *is rubbing his ear* ...Why? I thought we were gonna be doing my dungeon today.
Creator Jun: Screw it. We're doing Fat World, then crush everything, crush the towns, crush the people, crush the ocean...
Tech Drake: ...You can't crush water.

Erik: *sweat drops as the Creator makes a dramatic entrance, causing many to flatten their ears, if not outright plug them* Well, Chesh wasn't mistaken. *Was there shouting going on? He couldn't tell. Jun, Gill and the Tech members looked to be talking but the music was blaring, much to everyone's surprise and confusion. Once everything calmed down, he spoke up.* If I may, could we talk about this? Over breakfast perhaps? I was contemplating a show as well. *shrugs* And if you're that set on being smothered in blubber, I can flop down on you. But... it probably goes without saying you sound like you have something to talk about.
Sirius: *unflattens his ears* I... take it he's upset about something?
Gaius: That'd be my guess as well.

Creator Jun: *the boombox vanishes as he pouts and glares at Erik* You're making it worse!
Lit Gill: H-how? He's suggesting squishing you with flab. He even suggest breakfast and-
Creator Jun: *begins letting out a toddler's tantrum, making loud grunting noises as he flops on the ground and flails his arms and legs*
Tech Drake: ...It's the 'breakfast' part, isn't it.
Lit Gill: *watches him for a bit before looking at his shadow* Cuz, do you have any ideas?
Reverse Gill: Why not ask father?
Lit Gill: ... *blinks* Uncle Des, why's he mad?
Des: *from the Creator's shadow* There was this restaurant that Crey felt like visiting today. They had a new breakfast burrito on the menu, but they ran out due to popularity, and he didn't get any.
Creator Jun: I will burn the house and everyone inside.
Tech Drake: *deep sigh* Just get him some food and he'll forget about the whole thing within minutes.
Lit Gill: *cough* So, I'm still doing my dungeon thing today.

Erik: *sweat drops* Ah?
Altrios: Eh? What about bre- I mean, a meal, is so upsetting?
Sirius: *facepalms upon hearing the reason for the tantrum* Oh you have got to be-
Gaius: *elbows him* Hey, easy now.
Erik: *looks to think* I mean… you do realize you could just… ask us for one, right? Like- *turns to speak with one of the chefs, when Gumbo the crocodile was already holding up a… very bloated breakfast burrito. The smells of the ingredients all harmonized as they wafted from the wrap. Of course, like most foods, its size reflected the maker’s reluctance to do anything by half-measures.*
Gumbo: A masterful meal for the gods and champions!
Erik: *blinks a few times before sweat dropping* Annnnd sometimes you don’t need to ask. Someone will probably come up with some overblown variant of a menu item I’ve forgotten. Still, the offer of a meal is open.
Taurius: *the ice blue ox looks to Lit Gill* Well… let’s observe if we can remedy the situation. If all it takes is food, then most likely.

Creator Jun: *sits up and looks at the breakfast burrito* Ooooh. *takes it and starts eating*
Lit Gill: Looks like it's working.
Creator Jun: *gulp* I'd like a moist towelette.
Lit Gill: Yeah, it definitely worked. *claps his hands* So! I have a good idea for a dungeon. Challenging, but oh so fun to triumph! Who wants to form a party and challenge it?
Creator Jun: Isn't visiting Akiba and bonding with my kids also on today's agenda?
Tech Drake: Depends on which kid. The princess is still asleep in her room, and none of our other siblings have come for breakfast burritos.
Chesh: *is purring and rubbing the Creator's back* We could always go with the original idea of crushing everything.
Creator Jun: Yeah, that's technically an option. *bite*

Taurius: *nods* It looks like it did.
*One of the spa workers were happy to oblige the Creator’s second request*
Sirius: *shrugs* Well we were discussing who might go to challenge the dungeon.
Gaius: Wait, how is Elly still asleep?… Should I even ask? *sweat drops, as the Creator’s entrance was anything but quiet*
Merk: *scratches his chin* If memory serves, Half Wil and Lit Luke are frequent visitors of Akiba.
Sirius:…. *glaring slightly at Chesh*
Erik: Well, I don’t mind visiting Akiba today. It has been some time, and I can’t remember if I’ve ever visited or I heard about it from someone else. *nods to the Creator* If that was all that was on your mind, of course.
Altrios: And hey, I don’t mind heading the party if you all want Sirius for bonding too.
Sirius: *rolls his eyes* That really isn’t necessary.

Creator Jun: *continues eating* Okay, so you have Gill's dungeon today, and visiting Akiba. Anything else on the menu?
Lit Gill: Mmm, I could definitely use those... *seems to be muttering something to himself*
Chesh: Pssst. They don't have DJs.
Creator Jun: *looks at Erik in shock* Erik! How could you let your castle be so short-staffed!?
Tech Drake: Why not just grab a bard and give him a music player.
Creator Jun: That wouldn't feel the same, though. *cleans himself* Ah, speaking of ideas for today, if neither the Akiba trip or the dungeon sound interesting enough, I could bring my class here.

Erik: So far, no. I imagine if Elly does wish to scavenge for materials, we could help with that. *looks to think* If Merc Akira desired to train, or had a mission in mind, we could potentially assist with that.
Korigen: *the hawk looks to think to himself* Would visiting Show Drake be an option as well? I am unsure if he still requires assistance.
Erik: *blinks and sweat drops* Well, it’s that that we don’t have DJs exactly… you seem more experienced in the show-hosting area is all.
Sirius: *narrows his eyes* I think those ideas are already interesting.
Gaius: *tilts his head to the side* The class of assassins? I mean, I agree with Sirius about what we already have as options…
Erik: But you’re curious.
Gaius: Ehhhh, maybe a little. You’ve told us about yours and our allies’ experience, but that was…. some span of time ago.
Sirius: *shakes his head* And I’m not sure how good an idea it is to be inviting them here.

Creator Jun: Mmm, my attention span can only stretch so much...
Tech Drake: Choice paralysis. The phenomenon where being given too many choices makes it more difficult to make decisions. That, or dad is looking at something else in the world, so he's only partly paying attention to this place.
Creator Jun: Weeell, it has been a while since Drake has gotten some acting work done. I can bring him over to get some practice done.
Lit Gill: Oooh, and it's time to form the dungeon adventuring party, right!?
Tech Elly: *says something quietly*
Tech Drake: Oh yeah, we're gonna meet up with them in Akiba in a bit. *starts using his phone*

Erik: *nods* Well, perhaps I can solve one of those potentials. If there's nothing else planned, I don't mind going to Akiba.
Sirius: *looks to think* Well, I've already said where I'm going.
Erik: *nods once more* You have. And you're sure I can't convince you to come with me? *eyes the wolf up and down, and to both sides of his full and fluffy form* You're not normally one for these sorts of dungeons.
Sirius: Err, well... maybe I'm a bit curious to see what Gill came up with...
Gaius: *chuckles* Sure, we'll go with that, chief.
Sirius: And I think I've had my fill of new mechanics for a while. I'd rather stick to what I know. So uh... just be careful, ok?
Erik: *rumbles humorously* I suppose I could take an armed guard, though I imagine Drake and Elly are capable, should I be allowed to accompany them.
Merk: *thinks a moment* And I can speak with Show Drake, should he come here, see if he needs any assistance.
Erik: *looks back to the Creator* Does that help narrow things down?

Creator Jun: *stares at empty space* ...Did you say something?
Chesh: He said you're dumb.
Creator Jun: *exaggerated gasp* Erik, how could you! And I thought we could've been...
Half Wil: Are you doing some daytime soap opera thing?
Creator Jun: ...Sorta.
Half Wil: *looks at Erik* ... *turns back to the Creator* Yeah, don't you usually need a second lover or something?
Chesh: Don't look at me. I could never wed a man smaller than a building!
Tech Drake: *walking out the door* Okay, we're heading out.
Creator Jun: Take care, you three! And say hi to Luke for me!
*It looks like Blank and Half Wil are heading to Akiba together. They look at Erik expectantly.*
Lit Gill: Well, I've got a dungeon to run. So adventuring party, beware! Oh, dad, could you help with setting up the traps, I wanna hide some in some key locations.
Creator Jun: Alright, but then I gotta see to Drake's progress on his acting career.
Chesh: *mimes playing a guitar* You fell in love...With another!? *mimes a guitar again* And it was with my twin brother! Oh, wait. I should have bulging muscles under a skin-tight shirt and long flowing hair in the wind...Maybe a rose in my mouth too.

Erik: *sweat drops*
Sirius: Mhm. Not saying anything.
Erik: Fair enough. Oh, and please try and choose wisely when picking your adventuring party, Sirius. I know he might not remember but... *glances at the Creator* He will likely be spectating, so show him some varying bellies.
Sirius:...Don't you mean faces.
Erik: Yeah, those too. *leaves to join Tech Drake, Elly, and Half Wil*
Sirius: *rolls his eyes* Ok... well...
Altrios: Alright, well I guess that leaves me out then buuuut, can I put my lovable sibling forward? *gestures to an eastern dragon of mottled white and blue, with a pink and purple underside*
Sirius: *sweat drops* You can ask if whoever to come I guess. *looks around before settling on a barrel-chested, keg-bellied tank of a bear with cloudy blue fur, who looked to be studying some arcane tome.* Urstaerok, you haven't seen that much action here right?
Bear: Not really, no. *doesn't take his eyes off his book.*
Sirius:... Would you like to come?
Bear: *closes the book* If that is your wish.
Sirius: Ok and for the last one.... err... *looks to be having some troubles picking the last member*
Korigen:...*clears his throat* Might I... put forth my brother potentially? *gestures to an eager looking penguin*
Sirius: Oh. Yeah, sure. *nods* I mean, I know what to expect, and I don't know what to expect I guess.
Penguin: *snickers* I guess picking Porcius to come was to obvious a choice?
Sirius: Well, that and...father did say pick some unfamiliar faces.
Altrios: Right, and it's not so much a question of who's best to come, given all you know is that it's a dungeon made by a Gluttony Lord?
Sirius: Something like that, yeah. But the party's more or less set at least.
Merk: Well, I'll be meeting with Drake to see how he's fairing.

Half Wil: Heheh...So Erik, what do you plan on doing when we get to Akiba?
Tech Drake: We're gonna tour the latest games.
Tech Elly: And conquer them within the day.
Half Wil: Calm down, you two. The stores need players who haven't seen the end of the games.
*It takes a little while, but they eventually reach a sprawling city with Lit Luke standing by waiting for them*
Lit Luke: So what took you so long? You know how I feel about the breakfast rush.

Creator Jun: Okay, Drake's on his way. I wanna see what you've got planned out!
Lit Gill: Oh trust me, I think I'm really going for something out-of-the-box here. Shall we head on over?
Creator Jun: *nods* We shall, we shall! *The pair start walking off with the Creator listening to Gill talk about his traps*

Erik: Well… aside from hanging out with you? Not much. I’m not as familiar with this place. *It was the truth: he hadn’t been there in some time, both in terms of Fused World time and Atherus time* Perhaps you can show me around, or I’ll just tag along with what you decide. It will be a learning experience all the same. *chuckles slightly when they meet up with Lit Luke* I apologize for the delay. We may or may not have had to address one of your father’s concerns, which may or may not have also had to do with breakfast.

Sirius: *looks around at his group of adventurers*
Fauxu: Do we… follow them?
Sirius: I suppose so? At a respectable distance, I guess. *he wasn’t sure what traps Gill had in mind, though he knew he’d probably want them to remain a secret. So the wolf, the bear, the dragon and the penguin hybrid set out behind Lit Gill and the Creator, maintaining a pace that kept them just out of earshot so they could plan while they led the way to the dungeon presumably.*

Lit Luke: Uhuh. Well you're all here now, so let's get going. First stop!
*the group heads into the city, which is loud and crowded by various people. Although Luke brings them to an old-fashioned noodle shop.*
Lit Luke: Three pork bone ramen, please!
owner: Coming right up!
Half Wil: I'll have a sea food bowl.
Tech Drake: We'll take two pork bones and a large soda.
*It didn't look like it was very busy here. The group just shouts the order to the owner, who appears to also be the chef at the front desk, and he simply turns around and starts prepping the food. It didn't look like there was a separate room for the kitchen, it was all just sitting behind the front desk. They proceed to pick a random booth and sit down.*
Lit Luke: So how's the family? Did Gertrude get that new walker she wanted?
owner: Oh I wish, Luke. She lost it all on gambling again, and ma has to keep her from trying to walk on her own. At her age, I'm surprised she's still so feisty!
Lit Luke: *chuckle* She never changes.

*After a bit of walking, the group comes up to a mountainside with a pair of large iron doors. There was a sign hanging there which read "under construction" and a Veemon sitting beside it.*
Lit Gill: Okay, Akira! We're here, so the setup is just about done.
Lit Akira: Oh finally! When you asked me to help out with this thing, I would've said no if it involved sitting around for half an hour.
Lit Gill: Hey, I told you I had to get dad to help with the traps!
*Gill and the Creator open the doors and walk in before closing it again*

Erik: *takes in the sights and sounds, shifting into his wolf form to… better fit in. He was still overblown and wide, but at least he wasn’t towering. Before long, the group was headed to the noodle shop. With a nod and a smile, he placed an order as well.* I’ll try the sea food bowl as well. *And with his order place, he settled into the booth with the others, quietly listening to the conversation. It brought a humorous smile to his snout, though he still elected to let Lit Luke take point on the conversation.*


*The group of four followed along until they arrived at the mountainside, indicating that they had arrived at their destination. And that said destination was still being built. After a brief conversation, they were left outside with Lit Akira as Gill and the Creator went in to finish up. A moment of quiet followed.*
Garo:…. So, have you seen the inside at all?
Ustaerok: Garo.
Garo: What? I’m curious!
Sirius: *clears his throat, attempting to hide the fact he was somewhat curious what Gill had come up with as well.*

Half Wil: *looks at Erik* Luke has been coming here for a long time. And not just this eatery specifically, either. You'll see in a bit.
owner: Okay, here are your orders!
*Their food is brought to them on multiple trips, with a large warm bowl of ramen with sea weed, fish cakes and shrimp placed in front of Erik. Tech Drake and Elly are on their phones preoccupied with something, while Wil snaps a picture of his food.*
Lit Luke: Itadakimasu! *Begins demolishing the food*

Lit Akira: Yeah, I have. All I can say is that it's gonna be an escort quest, cause dad was playing video games and he got the idea to give that scenario to Gill. Oh, and don't worry. I'm gonna be annoying, but not buggy and start walking into walls or something.
*It takes roughly 10 minutes before the doors open, allowing the group to venture inside*

Erik: *nods to Half Will* Really? I see… *he was curious to find out more, though that would likely come later. He looked eagerly at the food, and at Luke’s command, began demolishing it as well.

Sirius: *furrows his brow*… I see.
Garo: Oh, okay *shrugs*
Fauxu: *nudges Sirius* Hey, don’t worry. We’ve got this. *nods to Akira* And it’ll be a good opportunity to learn more about this Akira.
Sirius: *thinks a moment, before nodding as the doors to the dungeon open* Well, let’s head inside then. *begins to lead the group into the depths*

*The group eat their ramen, with the owner cleaning up any messes on his side. Not only was it warm and delicious, but the portion sizes weren't anything to scoff at. Luke is the first to finish all three bowls that made up his order.*
owner: Not gonna have any more, Luke?
Lit Luke: Nah, gonna keep it a light breakfast today.
Tech Drake: Since when is three bowls considered light? *slurp*
*Once the group is done, they leave money on the table and leave*
Half Wil: Alright, time to officially begin our trip in full! *walks straight into a hobby store*
Tech Elly: It looks like it specializes in figurines and props.
Tech Drake: Most likely purchase?
Tech Elly: Hmm...It will either be a standing figurine or a fake sword.
Lit Luke: *is at a gyoza stand next door buying a few packs* Oh, did anyone want some? Treats are on me.

*The room the party find themselves in looks...Relatively pleasant. There was a pink imp there, manning a snack booth that doubled as a gift shop. On the side is what looked to be two standing platforms, with an arrow on the wall pointing from one platform towards the other. A hanging sign from the ceiling read "Safe Room" and Creator Jun is standing in front of a large door on the opposite side of the room.*
Creator Jun: *waves to the group* Greetings, adventurers! Behind this door lies a perilous dungeon, full of tricks and traps. The Gluttony Demonlord's champion lies in wait at the final room, ready to spread his evil across the land. But in order to reach him, however, you will need an expert in opening the passageways that block your approach. That'd be Akira there. But! He is still young, and is susceptible to certain "temptations" you see. If he falls prey and is unable to do his work, you'll have to bring him back here and I can cure him, on the cost of transferring his afflictions to someone else. *gestures to the platforms* Oh, and carrying him from one room to the next counts as cheating.

Erik: *leans back, quite satisfied with the meal, chuckling lightly* I suppose it was light. I won’t say by whose standards but… *rumbles humorously, growing more curious about Lit Luke. Leaving money for his meal as well, he left with the others. Once they were outside, he watched Half Wil go into one of the stores. He knew he had matters to discuss with Half Wil, but for the moment,* Oh, well I can hardly decline free treats. *chuckles heading over to the gyoza stand with Lit Luke*

Sirius: *looks around, seeming to shrug partially, as perhaps he had no real expectations for what to expect for the dungeon’s entrance. He would perhaps admit it had the look of a setting still being constructed. That wasn’t why he was there though, so he left the background where it was. After hearing the Creator’s explanation, he did grimace slightly, though nodded all the same.* Alright.
Fauxu: Well, let’s go see what Gill has in store, shall we?
Ustaerok: *grunts and nods*.
*With the rules laid out, the group was ready to move forward into the dungeon.*

Lit Luke: Well, Bartch, that's three...No, four more packs! *eating some*
owner: Heheheh, your appetite never ceases to amaze me! But are you sure about showing it off to someone outside of your group?
Lit Luke: You mean Erik? Nah, it's cool. He knows better than to keep his mouth shut. *eats another gyoza*
*The owner was putting half a dozen gyoza in each pack, passing on more to Luke as he finishes a second one.*
Lit Luke: *glances at Erik* ...You know, I'm planning on visiting a pretty good barbecue place. Then I'll show you the best red bean buns!

*The very first room in the dungeon...Well, it was mostly empty. All that was there is a table full of food, consisting of a pile of burgers, a whole turkey, mashed potatoes, a bowl of chili, and more. Lit Akira simply follows behind the group quietly. The entire room had a strong smell because of the banquet.*

Erik: *chuckles as he joins Lit Luke, reflecting that he believed he shared this Bartch’s sentiment on Luke.* Well, if you’re referring to your appetite, I believe I can keep that secret. *snickers* If for no other reason I’m hardly in a position to judge.*pats his belly. While the owner was preparing the order, it provided time for Luke and he to chat* Oh, that sounds delightful! *rumbles happily*…If I may ask a question, what does give rise to your appetite? You may have explained it in some part to Merk, though I would appreciate hearing about it as well. *clears his throat* And please don’t feel you have to answer, it’s mainly something I find curious.

Garo: *eyes the table up and down* Oh wow, this is quite the spread!
Sirius: *rolls his eyes* Save your appetite, I’m sure this isn’t the only thing he has in store.
Garo: Aw, not even a bite?
Sirius: Like I said, save it. Because I do remember hearing Gill workshopping some ideas for food based enemies. And…well, I feel all options can be on the table. *rubs the back of his head*
Fauxu: Hehe, do I trust our brave leader will be tearing up some of said enemies?
Sirius:… All options will be considered.
*Still, mostly ignoring the table of food, the group looked for a way out. Ustaerok kept an eye on Akira though he was also on the lookout for any other dangers.*

Lit Luke: *looks at Erik for a second before looking down at the food* ...Well, if you must know, it's because Akiba wasn't the thriving mecca it is now. Way, way back when, it used to be what could only be described as a slumtown. Everyone was in a state of destitution. Starvation and poor hygiene was rampant, and everyone was struggling to make it through the day. I was here, helping everyone survive, until a factory was built that produced basic electronics like radios and box TVs. It took a whole lot of work, but eventually, the town was clawing its way out of those times. Things got better, everyone got a little richer, more time and effort could be afforded to cleaning everything up. Food was the only luxury that existed back then. But as things improved, we soon got an entertainment district. Shops and stores were opening up, a giant arcade where Wil goes to every day was set up, and pretty soon...Well. *gestures to a dragon cosplaying as a cyborg walking by with his buddies* This appetite is a side-effect of trying to give everyone business during those times. And...It just stuck.
Half Wil: I'm baaack! *is wearing plush Lucario paw gloves* Would you believe I found this in the discount bin!?
Tech Drake: Huh. Plush stuff usually sell out really quick.
Half Wil: I know! I almost got into a fight with some tiger dude, but my hands were much faster. Heheheh!

*It turns out, there was a door on the other side of the room, it just so happened to blend in with the wall. However, it looked like it had some kind of code lock on it, and the only clue available was a small plaque that had a series of dots and dashes...Morse Code?*
Lit Akira: ...Heheheh. *smiles as he starts walking towards the banquet, arms outstretched*

Erik: *listens to Luke’s explanation intently* Hm, so a rags to riches story on a communal scale. *looks thoughtful at him, seeming at a loss for words.* Ah, so it’s basically a vestige of being supportive when times were far more difficult. That’s… admirable honestly, and I thank you for sharing that with me. *clears his throat* I could see coming back here for meals as well. It’s all been excellent so far. *chuckles lightly as Half Wil rejoins them* And there are other reasons to come, as explained by you, and exemplified by him.

Sirius: Huh… *examines the wall more closely* Is this some kind of code?
Fauxu: Annnnd we didn’t bring someone to translate.
Urstaerok: *sighs, standing between Akira and the banquet, attempting to block his access* Akira, our Morse Code is a somewhat rusty. Could you assist us in opening the door to the next room?
Garo: Oh yeah! Maybe this is one of the passageways he needs to open.
*And just like that, everyone was looking expectantly at Lit Akira.*

owner: *pushes more boxes towards the pair* Okay! That's your whole order, Luke.
Lit Luke: Heh, thanks. *passes money before taking the food and heading back to the group*
Tech Elly: Mmph... *reaches out*
Lit Luke: *passes some gyoza to Elly* So, had fun on your shopping trip?
Half Wil: Heheheh, yup! Now let's get going!
Tech Drake: In a bit. Why don't we work off our ramen breakfast...
*The group turns to one direction, where a few people were running away from, while local law enforcers were in turn running towards. Following the commotion led to a parking lot where a few people were fighting each other. And they had noticeably enlarged fangs, too.*

Lit Akira: Huh? *turns to the group* Oh yeah. Sure, I can do that. But can I do it after I have a snack? It all looks really good... *tries to go around Urstaerok to get to the banquet*

Erik: *follows Luke to rejoin the others* Well, I’m for heading wherever. *smiles as he continues to follow along, only for the group to encounter a commotion in the distance. He tilted his head to the side once they reached the source and were able to observe.* Huh… I remember something about vampires being mentioned here…

Urstaerok: *proves to be a formidable obstacle, difficult to get around as he moved to block Akira as he rubbed his temples* Yes, but can it not take the form of a very obvious trap?
Sirius: *sweat drops* It probably goes without saying, but I second the motion. Like I said, knowing Gill, the snacks might come to us later.

Half Wil: We must protect the town we love! For we are-
Lit Luke: No, you're not gonna call us something weird again.
Half Wil: Oh fine. Hey, buggy!
*One of the vampires turned around, and finds a plush Lucario paw making his head reel back*
Half Wil: Your villainous ways will not be tolerated!
Bugged One: Hagh! The town doesn't need foreign blood. We rule these streets! And we will make it known to all!
Lit Luke: *quickly slings his arm around the vampire's neck from behind* Go sunbathe, you creep.
Tech Elly: Don't need this. *pulls down the vampire's pants*
Tech Drake: And don't need this. *uses his claws to tear away the shirt and jacket*
*In no time at all, the vampire screams out as the sunlight burns him away to dust and smoke*
Half Wil: We still got these guys. *looks at the couple other vampires currently being suppressed by a maid, a policeman, and a space-themed idol singer.*

Lit Akira: *pouts* Mmm, alright, fine. *walks towards the door and looks at the code* ...Hmm... *inputs the code, which lets the door click open* There.
*The second room has a large tree in the middle, where what look like slimes were hanging around, both at the base and in the branches. The next door is on the other side.*
Lit Akira: Oooh, they look like fun! *immediately starts walking towards the slimes*

Erik: *chuckles lightly at their interaction, before studying what they do. It was… unorthodox, but abundantly effective. Nodding slowly, he elects to take advantage of some o the other vampires being distracted, nimbly walking up, aiming to snatch two by the collar from behind, and with a downward yank, tear their shirts off.*

Urstaerok: *sighs, grabbing for Akira as soon as he started walking toward the slimes* Are you being serious right now?
Fauxu: *sweat drops* Hey, how about you let us survey them first? What appears fun may in fact be hostile. *appears to try and diffuse the annoyance more gently* Aside from that, we do need to move forward and find the way out, yeah?
Sirius: *looks to think before nodding* I agree *gestures to the door* I say we try and avoid them for now, make sure the way out isn’t locked and then engage if needed. *for all he knew, more might arrive once a battle started, so the priority needed to be getting Akira working on the way out if that was needed.*

*With the other vampires distracted, Erik succeeds in tearing their shirts off, causing them to scream out in pain. Their conditions make it easier for the other fighters to tear off their pants, and they fade away in the light.*
Half Wil: That was awesome! We totally showed those Buggies who's boss!
Lit Luke: Calm down, Wil. We need to get going, the authorities can handle things.
Tech Drake: Yeah, you know how we feel about crowds.

Lit Akira: No, I'm being annoying. *huffs as he's being held back by Ustaerok and kept back from the slimes.*
*For the most part, it looked like the slimes were ignoring them. At the very least, it seemed to be that way, as none of them were moving closer to the tree.*

Erik: *nods triumphantly* It would seem that we have. *rejoins the others, thinking a moment before continuing* Well then, shall we head out? *seems impartial to staying or going, though respectful of Drake and Elly’s dislike of crowds*

Urstaerok: *growls lightly*
Sirius: *sighs rubbing his temples*
Garo: Hey, c’mon, we’re not going to get through the dungeon just standing around.
Sirius: Right, though as I said, let’s try to avoid a fight at least until the way out is secured.
*With that, the group began to try and move around the tree and the slimes to the doorway out of the room.*

*With the group heading out, they return to the main streets of town. Tech Drake and Elly were huddled closer together as bystanders milled about. Then, the pair suddenly detour into the nearest gaming store.*
Lit Luke: Again, not even a word.
Half Wil: Well, ya know what they're like. So Erik, you're fully bonded with those two, right? I guess it's just Luke and me.
Lit Luke: *starts snacking on gyoza* You mean dad's tarot thing? You'd think he'd be hinting at another disaster.
Half Wil: Nah, I think dad just wants Erik to experience our "tragic backstories" and go through personal growth.
Lit Luke: ...We're not in a video game, Wil.
Half Wil: With the Fused World's different systems, we may as well be.

Lit Akira: Well! Would it hurt to trigger one trap? Since when did gluttony lead to a snowballing effect, right?
*Regardless, Akira couldn't do anything when the party was blocking his path towards the dungeon monsters. Going around the tree kept them out of reach of the slimes, and they find the door had another code lock. Akira swiftly punches in the answer and the door swings open to reveal the next room.*
Lit Akira: Okay...What.
*The next room looked like the interior of a living room, decorated with party favors like streamers, flags, colorful shapes and flowers and such made of paper taped onto the walls. Floating around the room were numerous yellow balloons with a large "P" printed on them, and sitting in the middle is a two-tier sheet cake with candles.*
Lit Akira: Whoa! We have Twister on the floor! *points out the multiple colored circles dotting the entire floor of the room, and beside the door on the other side, there was a large circle made of four colors with a single arrow slowly spinning around in the middle.*

Erik: *watches Tech Drake and Elly leave for the gaming store with a small chuckle. Looking to Half Wil, he nods* That’s right. *shudders slightly at Lit Luke’s comment* In some ways I do hope it’s as Wil says. Apart from hoping that I’m actually helping in some way, I do enjoy learning more about you all. *looks to think about something else, something distant* Aside from that, you do all seem to have your own backstories and tragedies, and those have led to personal growth. *nods to the gaming store* I’d like to think they’ve come some way, given they’ve come to a place at risk of being in a crowd.

*The four of them looked at each other*
Fauxu:… Hey that reminds me, we should hang out when this is over! We’ve got snacks. *grins with his offer*
Sirius: *sweat drops* At our home, or the house?
Ustaerok: Is there a difference? Either place would fit his example.
*Still, it seemed they made it through the room without much issue. Akira worked faster than expected, though Sirius still didn’t want to chance a battle with slimes spiraling into longer fight with no way out. The next room, however, seemed to agitate the wolf before Akira could even do anything.*
Sirius: * catches sight of the yellow balloons* No no nope, I’m not doing this again. *walks forward slightly, eager to make his way to the door and out of this room, only to be the one held back by Urstaerok this time* Hey!
Urstaerok: Get a hold of yourself. *looks to Akira* If I may ask, could this… Twister, be linked to opening the way out?
Fauxu: *looks to think* Or a trap, if one were to step carelessly forward and break the rules. *gestures around* It is covering the whole floor, after all. Although, a trap and the way forward are not mutually exclusive.
Sirius:…. *flattens his ears*

*In almost no time at all, Blank comes out of the store at a brisk walk. They rejoin the group and let out a sigh, like they'd been holding their breath the whole time.*
Tech Drake: Mission accomplished.
Lit Luke: Uhuh. Well let's get going! We still have some other places to visit!
Half Wil: Right! A secret concert is happening in a few minutes, and we're almost on time to be fashionably late!
*The group head over to what looks like a model gun shop, selling replica weaponry. They head inside, pass Veximeer looking over the pistols, and head straight to the back where an employee was standing in front of a nondescript door with an "employees only" sign.
Half Wil: *cough* Energy rounds are rebounded by shield units, but live ammo is forever.
employee: *nods* Enjoy the show. *opens the door and allows the group to head inside*
*Past the door and down a flight of stairs, they find the basement is repurposed as a small concert stage, with a fruit-themed idol girl band playing in front of a crowd. Half Wil pulls out glowsticks from seemingly nowhere and begins waving them along with the crowd, many of whom were also waving glowsticks to the music.*

Lit Akira: *looks around the room, at the balloons, the cake, the door, and the floor* Hmm...I would assume so, but I'd need a closer look at that color wheel to be sure. But...There's a big delicious cake there...

Show Drake: *arrives at the house* Hey guys, I'm here. Dad said something about you guys helping me? Where is he, actually?

Erik: *nods slowly before* Good to hear. And let's head over there then. *smiles as he follows along with the group. He took in the sights and sounds all the while, tilting his head as the secret password was given, and they were allowed entry into the employees only area. He looked around the crowd once they arrived, and seemed happy to listen to the music.*

Sirius: *facepalms* Akira.
Fauxu: Hey, just a thought, maybe there's something good in the cake? *catches a glare from Sirius* All I'm saying is it's a bit over the top in a room potentially filled with hidden traps to include one obvious one.
Ustaerok: *grunts* You say that as if it was placed there to trap us.
Fauxu: Well, either way, we're not making much progress standing here. *looks at Sirius* Same strategy as before? Investigate the exit before the other options?
Sirius: *thinks a moment before nodding* Agreed.
*With that, the group tentatively made their way forward, keeping an eye on the color wheel, and avoiding the streamers.*

Merk: *looks up* Ah, Show Drake. *nods* I believe your father is helping Lit Gill with a dungeon they're planning. And yes, we were curious how you were doing, so we asked about whether you needed any help with anything.

*The concert seems to go on for a bit, and by the end of the song, Wil turns back to the group.*
Half Wil: Haah, that was refreshing! Shall we get going?
Tech Drake: Yes please.
Lit Luke: I know there's one last destination before heading back.
Tech Elly: Not really much of a tour.
Lit Luke: No, it's just an outing. And besides, we got to see some cool stuff out here.

*The party was...relatively safe. They were careful not to touch the decor, especially the streamers and balloons. Akira followed behind them, stepping on just the color pointed at by the color wheel, and changing as the arrow shifted from one color to the other. Upon reaching the door, it turns out to be locked by a regular keyhole.*

Show Drake: Ah...well. I guess I-
Creator Jun: Hey!
Show Drake: O-oh! Dad? I thought you were with Lit Gill.
Creator Jun: I was, but everything there is under control, so I'm leaving it to them to raid the dungeon while I'm here to watch over your bonding time!
Show Drake: Oh, um, okay.

Erik: *seems happy to simply be in the moment of the concert, looking around as it came to an end, and the children were conversing again.* I agree. *nods* I think this has been a rather pleasant outing. And I’m quite curious to see what you have in mind to conclude it, Luke.

*It was… anticlimactic to say the least. Looking over the door, it seemed the answer was simple…the keywords was seems, however.*
Fauxu:… So, I this may be an obvious question, but I’ll ask: did we bring a locksmith?
Sirius:… No.
Fauxu: Right, so unless Akira’s a locksmith as well as a codebreaker, we do need to explore around and find the key. *nods towards the cake*
Sirius:… *heaves a deep sigh* I’ll have a lot to say about his designs if he hid the key there.
Fauxu: *shrugs* It’s one of the more obvious objects in the room. *looks around* If the key’s here, where else could it be?

Merk: *notices the Creator’s return* Oh you’re back. *nods in greeting, chuckling slightly at his motivation for returning*… So, you were saying Drake? How have you been?

Lit Luke: Alright, just hold onto your marbles or you might lose it.
*The group exits the store's basement and head out once more. They head to what looks to be a large park where some convention was happening. People in costumes and regular clothes alike were joined together in random dancing, singing, and looking at merch stalls. Picture-taking was about both within and around the area.*
Half Wil: Ah man, I haven't been to one of these in a while.
Lit Luke: Oh, the con? Not that, I was talking about the place next to it.
*Luke guides the group towards a small store in an alleyway beside the park, where it looked like an old sweets store was located. The only other person there was an elderly gecko lady manning the cash register.
owner: Ooh, Luke. It's good to see you again.
Lit Luke: Hi there, Abigail. I brought friends this time.
Half Wil: *loud gasp* There's vintage trading cards from the first edition here! *starts digging through a pile of unopened card packs*
Tech Drake: Oh hey, remember this candy bar?
Tech Elly: It's a relic of the past.
*While the group immediately started looking around for new purchases, Luke stayed with the owner to talk with her.*
owner: Luke, I've been meaning to tell you this for a while, but I was thinking of closing the store.
Lit Luke: *blinks* ...Huh? W-what, what do you mean?

Lit Akira: *shakes his head* Don't look at me, I dunno how to pick locks. And even if I did, I don't have any lockpicking tools on me. *smiles* Although, if this means we get to have cake...

Show Drake: Oh, right! Well, you guys know about...Well, the incident with my Shadow and wanting to be on the stage and...All that. My siblings are all willing to help, but I don't...I have kinda...Minimal experience in acting.
Creator Jun: Then let's roleplay!
*While Drake is confused, the Creator waves his hand, and the rest of the Show Group appears, sitting around a table as they stopped talking and looked at their new surroundings*
Show Wil: Uh, dad? Why're we here?
Creator Jun: *has his hands on Drake's shoulders* I want Drake to join in, and we're starting with a new scenario.
Show Lyle: Oh! Uh...Right now?
Show Drake: Dad, you're railroading.
Creator Jun: *chuckles* Yeah, I know. *motions for Merk to come closer*

Erik: *chuckles* Alright, I'm holding on to them. *Again takes in the sights and sounds of what was going on around him as they walked. He tilted his head, as the convention did not appear to be their destination, but was rather close by to it.* Huh. *looks around curiously, as the store seemed to be almost like a time capsule, given the children seemed to easily find items and relics from an older period. He thought about perusing the sweets, overhearing the conversation between Luke and the owner.* Oh? And just as I'm finding out about this place? May I ask why? *He had an idea from his surroundings, and Drake and Elly's comment, but...for his clarity, it might have been wise to hear the story from the gecko.*

Sirius: *grumbles annoyedly... though he seems curious of the cake as well. And he did glance at Akira, knowing full well he might not agree with letting them "search" the cake alone. At the very least, Garo and Fauxu were on board with the idea, for obvious reasons.*
Urstaerok: *nods* I'll take another look around the room. There don't appear to be any threats. Given the theme, perhaps there are gifts or the like?
Sirius: ... *nods slowly, leading the rest of the group back toward the cake while the bear took another look around the room.*

Merk: *opens his maw to say something before sweat dropping and acknowledging as he moved closer to the group* I mean... if I can help I will. *nods to Drake* Just be calm, and improvise. *He knew this was more along the lines of improv at this point, though he did support Show Drake getting more acting experience.*

owner: Oh, so sorry to hear that, dearie. You see, Luke, I'm closing the store because there's no one to keep it open.
Lit Luke: What? What do you mean? Don't you have relatives for that?
owner: Well, that's the thing. There's no one to watch the store besides me. Everyone has their own lives, and it would be selfish to have them take on this responsibility. My joints are aching more by the day, and it's getting harder and harder to move around. So it would probably be better to just close the store.
Lit Luke: But what about Miki? And Adrian?
owner: They have families of their own, and they both moved far away some time ago. Listen, thank you for helping my mother and me so long ago, but it may be time to say goodbye to this old place. Let me get you your favorite chocolate bars, as thanks.
*As the old gecko heads to the back of the store, Luke just stands there in apparent shock. Erik could see the Death tarot appear above him.*

Lit Akira: *chuckles giddily as he joins the others walking towards the cake. A secondary look around didn't show any gift boxes present.* Cake, cake, cake, cake...

*With everyone gathered at the table, the Creator chuckles as he pulls out a couple sheets of paper stapled together. Was it a script?*
Creator Jun: Alright. So you all...Are on an all-expenses paid trip, thanks to Lyle.
Show Luke: Oh goddammit! One of these scenarios?
Show Lyle: *laughing* You don't like my paid trips? They're all free!
Show Luke: And deadly!
Show Wil: Did I bring any sunscreen?
Creator Jun: Your destination is the royal gardens of the queen's palace.
Show Akira: Wha- How'd we get here?
Creator Jun: You walked.
*The group were in mixed fits of laughter and groans while Drake was mostly quiet throughout*

Erik: Ah, I see. *continues listening to the owner’s explanation. On the one hand, he could understand the reasoning, and it was admittedly different than what he was expecting. On the other... what could he say to Lit Luke in this situation?* Well… I think she has fair reasons for the decision. *looks around, unsure what else to say.*

Sirius: *facepalms* I may have strong words later on.
Fauxu: *chuckles wryly* Duly noted. You can critique the dungeon design once we’ve seen more than a few rooms of it. *reaches forward to begin dividing up the cake* For right now, take it easy I say. It’s not good to be so tightly wound up.
Sirius: *grumbles*
Urstaerok: *sighs before heading over to join the others, seeming to share in Fauxu’s sentiment, if only slightly*

Merk: *tilts his head from side to side curiously* Should I be concerned? *looks between Luke and Lyle, though the potential answer was given soon after. For the most part, he did focus on Show Drake, and soon cleared his throat as he followed his own advice to him, sighing exasperatedly.* Ha, it’s been a tremendous journey, but we’re here at last! What’s the first thing we should do at this regal destination?

Lit Luke: S-still...This store has been here for generations. I've come here ever since the town was getting its footing. It can't...Close like this.
*The owner eventually comes back with a couple of chocolate bars in hand, which she carefully places in Luke's hands.*
Half Wil: Okay, we got stuff we want!
Tech Drake: Ah, looks like Erik and Luke are having a hangout event.
Tech Elly: Get those relationship points, Erik, and don't be an Erik.
owner: I know this place means a lot to you, Luke. You've been coming here since I was a little girl. But please don't be sad. I enjoyed our time here. *moves to man the cash register*

Lit Akira: Yaaah! Cake! *is actively bouncing up and down as he watches the cake get divided amongst them.*
*The sheet cake was, for all intents and purposes, moist and delicious with an almost glistening icing layer. Each bite was a piece of sweetness that made their bellies bounce out an extra inch or two. Akira was all too happy to eat his share, of course. It wasn't until the cake was all gone when a click is heard. A section of the table under the cake lifted up, revealing a key hidden inside.*
Lit Akira: *rubs his wobbly potbelly* Mmm...I wanted more.

Creator Jun: Oh yeah, lemme turn on the visualizer.
*The table lights up as a hologram appears of the group, all standing around in front of a palace*
Show Lyle: First thing I do is I stab Gill *giggle* with a knife!
*The hologram Lyle does just that, a knife appearing in his hand which he stabs hologram Gill with. It looked like the hologram figures do well mirroring the group as the Show Group bursts out laughing while Gill yells in annoyance.*
Show Gill: No! No fair! That's not- I counterstab Lyle!
Creator Jun: *chuckles as he watches Lyle and Gill stabbing each other* Okay, when you're done stabbing each other, the queen comes out and welcomes you to her party.
Show Elly: Well what if the queen is Erik. *the hologram queen becomes Erik, but still wearing a dress*
Show Drake: Whoa. Well, I'd thank her profusely. Or him, if it's Erik in a dress.
Creator Jun: *laughs* It's actually his castle in their world. Okay, you went to Erik's castle for your all expenses paid trip.
Show Luke: So there's no explanation for why Erik is in a dress.
Show Drake: I think he makes it work.
Show Wil: Are you flirting with him, Drake?
Show Elly: *gasp* Do it!
Show Drake: Oh. *blushes* Uuuhh...Heheh! Uh, okay. I say to Erik "You look...great. in it."
*There were giggles at the awkward flirting, though Drake is visibly relaxing.*

Erik: *watches Luke and the owner for a long moment, looking back to the rest of the group.* Yeah, we’re uh… just wrapping up… *he still didn’t know what to say to Luke, so he looked back to the owner* Well, I know we just met, but I wish you the best. I understand this place and many others have had a rough time in the past. *In some ways, he supposed it was good the store was able to last so long, when others likely couldn’t say the same*

Sirius: *grumbles and huffs*
Fauxu: Easy now. Like I said, if you have any critiques, it might be best to save them for the end. *chuckles warmly* Don’t worry, I’ll make sure you get a bigger slice next time~
Sirius: *tail twitches*…. I don’t suppose we could’ve just destroyed the cake?
Fauxu: *twirls a claw in his mane* I’m fairly certain that would’ve ended poorly with a nonzero number of Gills and Akiras.
Urstaerok: *rolls his eyes, grabbing the key* Enough dwelling. Now we know to expect more puzzles like this and to budget our weight more cautiously. *walks over to the door* It’s as Fauxu says; save your judgements for the end.
Sirius:… *huffs in acknowledgement, seeming successfully annoyed as he follows along.*
Garo:… Well I kind of do wish there was more. *giggles as he hops along, belly bouncing with every step*

Merk: *looks around rather curiously, not expecting this. He sweat drops watching the interaction between Gill and Lyle, perhaps finding some peace in that it was just a hologram. Then he hears Elly’s comment* Eh? Err…*And just like that, the setting had shifted. Still, he cleared his throat, following his own advice yet again* In that case, Castle Erikon welcomes you, travelers from another world. *In some regards, he agreed with Show Luke. In others, he was fine with adapting, especially as it seemed to be helping Show Drake* Ehem, I’m rather certain he would thank you for the complement, and wish you a fruitful and fulfilling stay.

*As the group makes their purchases, the old gecko gives Erik a nod as they leave. Lit Luke is quiet as he looks at the sweets in his hand before pocketing them.*
Lit Luke: I should look for ways to preserve this place. Good day, everyone, but I've got work to do. *walks off*
Tech Drake: *slowly claps his hands* Bravo, Erik. You handled it splendidly.

Lit Akira: Yeah, I think there's a non-zero chance there's a trap from destroying the cake instead of eating it.
*Unlocking the door led the group to a large cavernous room, one where there was a visible pink river running throughout it and patches of white mushrooms were growing along any ground available.*
Lit Akira: Whoa. Look at that! *walks towards the river, trampling on a couple mushrooms along the way. There was very little space that wasn't occupied by mushrooms.*

Creator Jun: Yeah, so Erik thanks you and hopes you enjoy your stay.
Show Gill: I hope it's really full-fill-ing, if you know what I mean!
Creator Jun: Heheheh. So Erik leads your group to the party that's happening out in the back garden. There are things like cookies and tea and those little cakes, you have a wonderful time. But! As you're enjoying yourselves, one of Erik's bunny friends is spotted running around with an oversized pocketwatch-
Show Elly: Oh my Creator. Are we doing Alice in Wonderland?
*The show group starts laughing as their hologram selves are now wearing various themed outfits that fit into the old storybook's world.*
Creator Jun: You can hear them faintly shouting "I'm late! I'm late!"
Show Gill: Dude, chill! You're fashionably late, which is perfectly acceptable.
Show Lyle: I'd yell at him that he's going the wrong way, heheh.
Creator Jun: So, do you follow him?
Show Luke: No, I'll sit here and enjoy my tea, thank you.
Show Drake: Uuuh...Mm... *glances at Merk*

Erik: *nods looking around as Lit Luke leaves the group. He does cast a glance to Tech Drake, perhaps pondering if he meant that* Well… it’s as I said. I think the decision is respectable. I also think Luke cares for the owner so… I thought keeping it to their point of view would help. *thinks a moment* For now, he probably needs time to think through this. Should we get going?

Sirius: *scoffs as they enter the next room, taking a moment to observe his surrounding*
Urstaerok: *sighs, grabbing for Akira* Akira. *At the very least, he seemed willing to pass this instance as an overflow of curiosity.* Just as a general direction, perhaps we should still look around before moving forward. *That advice seemed directed to a Garo midway to trampling more of the mushrooms.*
Fauxu: Well, the caution is good, though it looks like we’ll have to walk across the mushrooms regardless.*
*With few other options, the group made their way forward to examine the river more closely*

Merk: *continues to observe the Group’s performance, given he seems to be just another part of setting the scene. Sure enough, said scene appeared fluid based on the Group’s imagination and the Creator’s lead. Thinking a moment, he answered Show Drake* Well, I believe the choice is yours. They might be running late assisting with the entertainment for the party, or delivering a missive to the cooks. If you are curious and willing, there’s only one way to find out.

Tech Drake: Mm, yeah. But I doubt he's ready to accept the outcome just yet.
Half Wil: *stretches his back* Yeah, I think I'm ready to go home now. Unless there are any more buggies around to fight? *looks around* ...No?

*It looked like the pink river running throughout the room was soda, if the slight fizzing of bubbles were any indication. Akira's first instinct? Attempt to dunk his head in it and drink.*

Show Drake: Hmm. Well if we're going this direction, I guess we follow?
Creator Jun: So you follow the rabbit Atherusian deeper into the garden, which begins to look more and more like a forest-
Show Akira: Is there a killer hiding in here?
Show Luke: We're not doing a horror theme in this one, Akira.
Show Lyle: I'm the killer all along! *laughs*
Creator Jun: In almost no time at all, you end up hopelessly lost. Until you spot a grinning Vance. *A hologram Vance Oblivos appears* He smiles down from a tree branch and offers to guide you, if you can amuse him.
Show Wil: I start barking at him.
*Luke just groans as Wil acts in a dog-like manner.*
Show Akira: Down, boy!
Show Lyle: Amuse him, huh? Okay. I stab Gill-
Show Gill: No no no! Not again!
Show Elly: Can we just walk away without him?
Show Drake: *chuckling to himself* What would amuse him, anyway?
Creator Jun: I dunno. You just gotta try.

Erik: *nods* Like I said, he perhaps needs some time. *thinks a moment to himself before nodding to Half Wil* Yes, I think I’m ready to go as well. It’s been a fun outing though. *smiles*

Urstaerok: *grasps for Akira once more* Akira-
Sirius: *growls* You’re really pushing your role!
Fauxu: *sweat drops*… Well, does anyone see the way out?
Garo: Not at first glance.
Fauxu: Hm… *looks out to see if there were any exits on the other side of the room* if we have to cross the river, maybe our resident ice mages could conjure a way?

Merk: *sweat drops at Lyle, perhaps finding his sense of humor strange, though not thinking much of it* Well, if he’s not amused by Wil, try a funny joke. His humor is fairly broad, though you might get bonus points if you make a noble the punchline. *Generally, he was just being honest. Vance would probably find most of what the Group did entertaining.*

*With that, the group start heading back from Akiba, occasionally passing by random cosplayers, a majority of phone-scrollers, and the especially rare normal-looking Inhabitants.*

Lit Akira: Mmm, the cake was dry!
*At first glance, it didn't seem like there were any exits in the room. However, it may just mean it was camouflaged along the walls, hidden in plain sight. The river itself appeared calm enough that they could wade through, but ice magic can still freeze it over to form a temporary bridge.*

Show Lyle: I convince him that Gill is a noble-
Show Gill: Nope! I stab Lyle first while he was talking!
Show Wil: Arf! Arf arf arf!
Creator Jun: *chuckles* While Vance is mildly entertained by your chaotic ramblings, he needs something bigger before he's convinced.
Show Drake: I tell him a joke about how dumb nobles are.
Creator Jun: Okay, what's the joke?
Show Drake: ...O-oh, I have to actually make one up?
*The Show Group laugh as Drake blushes while looking at the table*
Show Drake: O-okay, okay. Uuuh, how many nobles does it take to change a lightbulb?
*Almost immediately, the whole group starts laughing*
Creator Jun: Oh no, the lightbulb joke!?
Show Drake: Heheh! Three. One to change the lightbulb, and the other two looking for a servant to do it for them.

Erik: *follows along, still watching the events around him. He’d admit, he didn’t know what to expect from the outing when they first left. But it really was enjoyable… and he hoped he could help Luke further. Although, he didn’t forget Half Wil: perhaps he’d follow him next time.*

Sirius: *growls*
Fauxu: Hm… welp, the way out’s not immediately apparent. So! *moves to hoist up Akira and place him on Urstaerok’s shoulders*
Urstaerok: *grunts* Fauxu, what are you-
Fauxu: Just making sure you can keep a hold of him in an amusing way. *shrugs* You kinda stepped up to be his bodyguard and all. Besides, however we cross this mitigates the risk of him falling in, eh?
Sirius: *facepalms* You can’t be serious.
Garo: *looks around before carefully stepping into the river, perhaps verifying its depth and that the current wouldn’t sweep them away while wading through* Well uh… I mean, we should explore the area fully right? Same strategy as before, find the exit, verify we can get out in a hurry, and then explore?
Sirius:….

Merk: *chuckles warmly at the joke, a genuine response* Well he might think you’re giving the one noble too much credit, but he would be in full uproarious agreement. *looks pleased that Show Drake appeared more comfortable and less nervous.*

*While the party searches for the exit, Urstaerok suddenly hears muttering.*
Lit Akira: One. Two. Three...
*suddenly, Akira begins throwing a fit, kicking his legs and pounding his fists on the bear's head.*
Lit Akira: Nooo! Put me down! I don't like being carried for more than three seconds! Put me down, PUT ME DOWN!
*This isn't the only issue, either. As Garo waded in the river, he finds that the pink soda water had a peculiar sweet smell, one that made him both hungrier and thirstier. The others, meanwhile, found the trampled mushrooms were very slowly releasing spore clouds. Inhaling it was causing their bodies to bloat a little. Akira's tantrum only served to make things worse by throwing off Urstaerok's balance and making him step on more mushrooms.*

Creator Jun: Okay! So Cheshire Vance is pleased with your joke and leads you to the tea party, hosted by the Mad Hatter and Overseer of Fire, Rik.
Show Drake: ...Wait, what!?
Creator Jun: ...Oh crap!
*Hologram Rik looks at the Creator annoyedly as the Show Group bursts out laughing.*
Creator Jun: Wait wait wait! Who's the fire one then!? Rik is red, and red is fire!
Show Drake: Rik says "I'm just filling in for today."
Show Gill: It was the hat. He switched elements by putting on a different hat!
Show Elly: Wait, weren't we looking for the rabbit?
Show Lyle: Rik was the rabbit all along! I say as I pull off his mask.
Show Wil: Maybe the real rabbit was the friends we made along the way.
Show Luke: Booo.

Sirius: What the- are you actually- *looks on furiously as Akira throws his fit*
Urstaerok: Ack! You little- *in spite of what was going on, he had the poise to not drop him, though he did set him down promptly*
Garo:… *shutters slightly, hopping out of the waters with haste* Yep! Nope! Original idea was better, ice bridge it is, and I think we should take breather for a meal when we get out. Err, are you guys alright?
Sirius: No, I’m fine. Just. Fine. *growls glaring at Akira* I’m not ready to leave or anything.
Garo: Uh… not what I meant. *looks at the group’s bloating bellies*
Fauxu: Hm… *in spite of the chaos, he was diligently moving around examining the walls was for any signs of a way out, either aware of the time limit by the spores or just following the directive of securing the exit before any other exploration took place.*

Merk: *looks around briefly, before glancing at the Creator* Err… *nods in agreement with Show Drake* Yes, Vesus was feeling unwell, so he passed on his duties for the day to another well versed in Fire magic. *clears his throat* In any case, you’re at the party now, and trying to find the rabbit is one of many options you may consider.

Lit Akira: *as he's set down* Hey, don't look at me. Gill and dad told me to throw a fit if I'm being carried around for too long. It'd be too easy to just carry me the entire dungeon when the purpose of an escort quest is to guide me away from the traps. Although Gill really emphasized that I be really annoying and drawn to everything...
*While Fauxu is examining the walls, he does find an odd spot close to where the river is coming from. The door appeared to have been hidden by a layer of rock and dust, which is easily brushed aside. The lock has a microphone and a sign that states "The young one must speak the name of the demonlord"*

Creator Jun: Vesus is his name? Huh, it does sound familiar...Anyway. Rik welcomes you to the tea party!
Show Lyle: Can I take his hat?
Creator Jun: Rik would prefer you didn't take his hat. He's the Mad Hatter after all!
Show Drake: Wait, then who's the March Hare?
Creator Jun: Uuuh, Orynyx.
*The group laughs as Hologram Rik smiles and puts bunny ears on a Hologram Oryn*
Show Wil: There's no way.
Creator Jun: Well I'm the narrator, and I say it's Oryn.
Show Luke: And I must be the caterpillar, cause there's no way I'm seeing this while sober.
Half Wil: Hey guys, we're back!
Tech Drake: *looks at the holograms on the table* ...You guys are roleplaying?
Show Gill: Heheheh, yeah!
*It looked like Show Drake is fully relaxed and laughing along with his siblings now.*
Half Wil: ... *nudges Erik's elbow* Any ideas why Rik is dressed like the Mad Hatter?

Sirius: *growls* Being stuck in a room is not the entire dungeon!
Garo: *motions with his hands* Hey hey, calm down. Not to take sides or anything, but he hasn’t exactly put up much resistance, given he mentioned the whole being guided away from traps thing.
Fauxu: *nods as he brushes aside the rubble from the door, casting a glance behind him* I will say you seem more on edge than before, Sirius. Like, you went from mild excitement at coming here to… being somewhere above being annoyed since we entered. Is everything ok?
Sirius:…. Just fine. As you say, I’ll have matters to discuss back home. Can we please just move forward?
Fauxu: *shrugs* Alright, just try and keep a level head. You’re supposed to be the one leading the way. *gestures to the door* Akira, your up. And uh… I’ll keep my ideas to myself, hehe.
Urstaerok: *grunts* Think clearly before you act. That’s all.
Garo: *rubs the back of his head* Soooo we’re not looking for treasure while we’re here?
Urstaerok:… We’re on something of a time limit with the traps here.
Garo: Ah, fair.

Merk: *snickers quietly, guessing that the Creator wasn’t fully prepared with all the roles of the part.* Eh, well where there’s a will, Wil.
Erik: *looks around as his group returns to the house* Hello… what’s going on here?
Merk: Oh, we were just ah… bonding with Show Drake. *grins awkwardly*
Erik: Oh I see. *nods* Please continue.*chuckles as he shrugs at Half Wil’s question* Somehow I get the feeling you should ask your father, but that’s just me.

Lit Akira: Hmm... *heads to the door and mutters something into the microphone.*
*The door, along with a section of the wall, opened up to allow the party to pass through. The next room appeared to be the last one, namely because at the far end sat a ritualistic circle glowing with energy. And Gill is there in the middle, observing a figure standing in front of him.*

Creator Jun: While Vance, Rik and Oryn welcome you to the tea party, they warn you that you must follow the rules-
Show Lyle: Naah, don't care.
Show Drake: *laughs* What rules are we talking about here?
Creator Jun: *giggle* It's that you must always pay respects to the queen. But since you came to the party without presenting Erik a gift-
Show Elly: What!? This is an all expenses-paid trip!
Creator Jun: Yeah, but that doesn't mean you don't bring a gift!
Show Luke: Is it too late to have separate checks...
Creator Jun: Before your entire group, queen Erik appears with a squadron of kobolds dressed up as cards, and he orders to have all of you beheaded.
Show Akira: That is way too quick.
Creator Jun: So what do you do?
Show Drake: I...Uh, I flirt with queen Erik.
*The entire table starts laughing again*

*As the group moved forward into the room, they seemed a bit surprised that it was over so soon.*
Garo: Eh? Already?
Urstaerok: Hm.
Fauxu:... So do we just announce ourselves or...
Sirius: *tilts his head* If he hasn't heard us. *leads the group forward a few steps more to see if Gill acknowledges they're there.*

Merk: *sweat drops, finally cracking in his talk of adapting to the situation* Err, he might be receptive to that? It's an interesting gift to be certain.
Erik: *sweat drops* I have... many questions about how we got here. But I'll just let them bond, I suppose.

*Stepping into the room, the door behind them slams shut, causing Akira to jump a little. The figure in front of Gill vanishes as the circle he was standing on glowed before expanding.*
Lit Gill: Well well. You're too late, explorers!
Lit Akira: But we got through all the rooms on the first try, though?
Lit Gill: Yeah, but it's always like this in a lot of adventure games. You could spend all the time you want on side stuff but the plot always has you being seconds too late or something.
Lit Akira: ...Do we get some bonus for doing it all the first try?
*The circle stops expanding after growing a few feet*
Lit Gill: Uh...Hahaha! This prison shall not keep me for long, travelers! It weakens with every temptation fallen in this domain. And once I enslave all of you, it will be broken, giving me free reign over the land once more!
Lit Akira: Oooh, so this is the bonus. How does it help?
Lit Gill: Heheheh, while I cannot leave this circle, lest I lose all my power, I can still send my minions after you.
Lit Akira: ...Wait, what?
Lit Gill: It means you beat me by pushing me out of the circle. But only Akira can do it.
Lit Akira: Oooh, okay. Wait a minute. Why me? Have Sirius do it!
Lit Gill: Uhhh, something something...You're my brother, I guess? I dunno, dad didn't give any ideas for story stuff.
*With a wave of his hands, the entire room is lit up, revealing it to be mostly white with grid-pattern square lines everywhere.*
Lit Gill: I actually like this arena. I call it...The Kitchen Sink!
*one of the squares flips around, revealing several slimes. Another square flips around, revealing floating pastries. One by one, the squares flip to reveal various enemies, from snake-like hoses, balloons with faces, food golems, imps, and so on.*

Half Wil: Alright then. Although, I do wonder if this is partly affected by how dad sees you.
Creator Jun: *giggle* Go on, flirt with him.
Show Drake: Um...You...Wait. I say, er, yo Erik. You eating good?
*The table erupts with laughter*
Show Lyle: I flirt with him! "Yo, you put on weight, you fat ass pig?" Hahahaha!
Show Akira: I flirt with him, proceeds to call him fat!
Show Luke: We did bring a gift. I present Drake and call him a very tall kobold.
Show Wil: Uh, Drake? *nudges him and points to the real Erik nearby*
Show Drake: *immediately blushes* ...Oh my Creator.

*The others in the group whirled around as the door closed before turning their attention back to Lit Gill. In particular, Sirius’ attention went between the two Literature siblings as they conversed.*
Fauxu: Ooooh so it’s an ad boss, where the minions fight and the main guy can’t do much? Got it.
Sirius: *casts a glance at Gill while tilting his head to the side*… You really haven’t thought this through fully, have you?
*It was a genuine question… but it almost seemed like he came to a realization from that question as well. Still, he focused again once the grid appeared, and then the enemies. Although, someone keen eyed might of caught a slight tail wag as he seemed to stare at the food enemies.*
Sirius:… Akira, there’s cake waiting back home. So…if you could forcefully shove your brother out of that circle, that would be great.
Urstaerok: *sweat drops* That’s all fine and good, but there’s quite a few enemies between us and them.
Sirius: Oh, that’s no problem. I intend to carve a path. *his face twisted into an excited grin* By fighting and feasting! *before the group could say anything else, he leapt into the fray, slashing, biting, and shooting ice at the various enemies that were spawned.*
Fauxu: Hehehe there’s excitement that’s been bubbling beneath the surface! *glances at Garo who was just staring as well* What are you waiting for? You think he can do this by himself?
Garo: O-oh! Right! *spreading wings from his back and drawing his sword, he leapt high up in the air, eager to take a mixed approach to the combat as well.*
Fauxu: *chuckles warmly, looking back toward Urstaerok who was just staring with a dropped jaw* Well, the damage dealers are off. Now we just need to guard the VIP while those two make the path.
Urstaerok:… *sighs* Of course.
*the pair stay by Akira, guarding him from any stray threats that approached.*

Erik: *face palms* Oh please don’t suggest that. I’m quite sure I don’t fit as the tyrannical monarch.
Casey: *the mottled purple jackal snickers bemusedly as he approaches to watch with him* I don’t know, perhaps he wishes to see you in a dress. *smiles* I will say Merk’s been doing a good job providing details on how the residents, *snickers* I mean stage hands would act in response.
Erik: *sweat drops* Err…. let’s just resume watching.
Merk: Err…. wait you didn’t know he was watching? He’s been there for a few minutes now. *sweat drops* Ahem, he might lecture Lyle on his speech and decorum, somehow knowing the chaotic scenes he’s caused before this attempt at flirting. Although he uh… might be curious about the others. *Though at this point, he wondered if the show would go on now.*

*With the party now fighting off Gill's minions, they carve a path to allow Akira to reach Gill. Whatever they devour, though, has the obvious effect of fattening and inflating whoever puts it in their mouth, such as Sirius biting down on an ice cream golem.*
Lit Akira: Welp, here I go! *runs towards the glowing circle*
Lit Gill: Uhuh, you'll have to try extra hard to push me out! *smiles as Akira runs into him, and he pushes him back with his belly*

Show Drake: Oh...that's so much worse.
Creator Jun: *chuckles* Erik is shocked and bemused that you would notice his weight gain, and allows you to stay for the rest of the tea party.
Wil, Akira & Elly: Yeeeaaahh! *pats Drake*
Show Lyle: I can't believe that worked.
Creator Jun: So what have you all learned in this adventure?
Show Luke: Never go on Lyle's free trips.
Show Lyle: What!? My vacations are awesome!
Show Akira: If a tyrannical monarch wants to behead you, just call them fat.
Show Gill: Always wear stab-proof armor.

*At the very least, it seemed that Sirius didn't mind the fattening or inflating effects, tearing through the ice cream golem voraciously before turning to barrel through more enemies. He did show some awareness, using ranged attacks for the balloons and focusing on slicing up the snake-like hoses. The imps were... either enemies to be beaten or food to be eaten, the wolf was far from picky. Garo meanwhile was happy to mix up his tactics as well, though taking the hint from Sirius and making sure to avoid eating certain enemies. Sucking in the flying pantries with vacuum breath hopefully was effective for removing many of them from the equation. Fauxu and Urstaerok meanwhile focused on keeping the enemies away from Akira, using more conventional fighting while the other two fought the majority of the forces.*

Merk: Eheh... *listens to the show wrap up as the Creator asks the group what they learned. He nods, looking to Show Drake* Be calm and always ready to adapt to a changing scenario? That seems like what you had to do for that show.

Lit Gill: Come on, ya gotta do better than that.
Lit Akira: Grrr, face me like a real man!
*In a cartoony manner, Gill was holding Akira back with one hand, leaning onto his head while crossing his feet in a relaxed manner. After a bit, Akira huffs and walks out of the circle, grabs one of the hose snakes that was looking at Fauxu, and starts sucking down what seemed to be a chocolate slurry from it, quickly swelling and growing bigger and fatter before tossing it aside and re-entering the circle. He and Gill now start pushing each other like sumo wrestlers, but with Gill's inherent girth, the demonlord still had the weight advantage.*

Show Drake: N-no, I learned that flirting with imaginary people is much easier than with real people...Heheh...
*The Show Group is all too happy to laugh and talk about the scenario they played, except for Drake, who was too embarrassed to look at anyone in the eye.*
Half Wil: Huh. Looks like Drake is breaking into the improv scene, but I don't think he expected you to hear about him flirting with a make-believe version of you.
*The Creator chuckled as he teleported himself and the Show Group away. Except for Drake, who stood there unsure what to do and probably wishing he got teleported together with his siblings.*

Fauxu: *catches sight of the scene, watching on with a bemused look* Hm… so him becoming bigger is an advantage as well as a disadvantage…*shakes his head, resuming his efforts to make sure the two sibling’s fight was uninterrupted by the other monsters, casting bolts of shadow out to blast away the opponents.*
Urtsaerok: *follows a similar strategy casting destructive bolts of arcane magic that rend and tear the enemies they connect with.*
*Meanwhile the two gluttons were making swift work of swathes of the monsters seeming to become all the more powerful as they used their larger forms to push and crush their adversaries.*

Merk: *sweat drops*… Well that’s one lesson to maybe take away.
Erik: *rubs the back of his head* I mean, he almost didn’t. We just happened to arrive home at this time.
Merk: *nods* So… did you feel like doing anything else Drake? We could talk further?
Erik: I agree.

*As the party is fighting off the minions, they appear to be growing more and more numerous. Now there are two squares of the walls and floor that are flipping at a time. Whether the situation was growing dire as time went on, or the difficulty was matching the increasing strength of the growing gluttons, it was hard to say.*
Lit Gill: *tosses Akira out of the ring* Try again, kiddo!
Lit Akira: Grrr! *lunges at a vanilla cake golem and munches on it, growing bigger and burping before hauling himself back into the ring.*
Lit Gill: Heheheh. *proceeds to stomp his feet like a sumo wrestler*

Show Drake: *quickly runs off into the house, presumably to an unused room*
Half Wil: ...You do look pretty good in a dress, Erik. *snickers and heads inside*
Chesh: *pokes Erik's side with a grin.* Say, how are you guys? Don't you wanna do a little hang-out with me? I promise you won't regret it.

Sirius: *growls as he crouches down before leaping up and body slamming a group of the monsters with his massive form, sending a quaking wave throughout the arena. Puffing out his cheeks, he belched forth a freezing mist before charging forward to shatter the enemies caught in it.*
Garo: *uses surprisingly nimble sword strikes to slice up several of the enemies while blasting others with magic. And when all else failed, he was happy to vacuum up many of the enemies, large and small, into his stretching middle*
Fauxu: Hmmm…I wonder if it’s possible to outgrow the arena… *seems to casually let his mind wonder as he continues to blast away opponents.*
Urstaerok: *rumbles splitting his attention as he watches Sirius and his duty of keeping the enemies away from Akira… or rather limiting the enemies so that Akira could pick and choose how much he ate.*

Merk: *sweat drops* I… guess not.
Erik: Well, he’s here now. I presume he wishes to stay and perhaps learn from us, talk with us… generally pursue his goals. *sweat drops* I’m sure you think that Wil. *sighs, taking a small amount of solace in the fact that the improv hopefully didn’t start out with him in a dress…. and he wasn’t sure he wanted to know how it got there. He tilted his head before looking over to Chesh* I… suppose we can hang out with you.
Merk: *raises an eye ridge* Are you sure this is wise?
Erik: Relatively. *looks back to Chesh* Where are we going?

*The party appeared to be doing well standing their ground. Lit Akira and Gill slam into each other as they attempt to push the other out of the circle like it's a sumo ring. And it really does look to be as such, as the winged imp Butler manifests inside the circle with a fan in hand watching the pair. Gill slams Akira on the ground outside of the circle, and Butler raises the fan towards Gill.
Butler: Point to master Gill.
Lit Akira: *deep breath* Now I'm getting peeved! *grabs a large floating steak and chomps it down, growing even fatter* Mmm, buuurrp! Oogh, I might be overdoing it, though. *waddles back into the ring and gets into position*
Lit Gill: Heheh! I'm just glad dad approved this. *gets into position again*

Chesh: Mmm! *puts his finger on his chin* Well, it's not like we're gonna go very far. Since this is our first hang-out, well...Quote unquote "first," let's bring a third wheel with us, eh? I know you've been listening and have been rather shy.
Reverse Luke: *emerges from around a corner* Well, I only need to come here if I have important news to share.
Chesh: Aww, so adorably cute. We're going to do the mortal bonding ritual of "hanging out together" so you better have your pen and notebook at the ready.
*With a flash, Chesh was behind Reverse Luke and...yanks his head off before throwing it to Merk*
Chesh: But don't get a"head" of yourself, just cause they like you more!
Reverse Luke: ...Please don't disconnect my head without consent...

*The four of them appeared set to provide Akira with as much time as he needed, while Gill appeared set to provide him with as much mass as was needed.*
Urstaerok: *sweat drops, causing an explosive groundswell of arcane magic to erupt from beneath several of the enemies* Please don’t overdo it.
Fauxu:…Oh! *skewers a golem with a lance of shadow* Can you overdo it while inside the ring? *catches a glance from Urstaerok* What? Swelling huge and forcing him out of the ring that way seems as viable.
Urstaerok:…Fair.
*Meanwhile the other two were happy to use their bodies to crush their enemies, fill out their bellies with them, and tear them apart with conventional skills.*

Erik:… Alright then. I would like to be back in time to greet Sirius and see how he has faired as well. *And he couldn’t deny he was curious to see what Chesh had in mind*
Merk: Oh? He’s been there as well? *rubs the back of his head, before yelping as Reverse Luke’s head was tossed at him. He caught it, but the whole scene was rather shocking, and proceeded to hold it like it was a priceless artifact*… I would concur with his sentiment.
Erik: *chuckles lightly* Well, I will say I have my reasons for that, Chesh. Fairly obvious ones too. But… there is fairly uncharted waters, so I’m willing to see what you have in mind.

*Both Akira and Gill slam into each other again, attempting to push each other out.*
Lit Akira: Why are you so stubborn!?
Lit Gill: I'm going to invade the light side of the world! You think I'd just give up if you ask nicely?
*Gill finds himself getting pushed back before he used Akira's momentum to trip him out of the ring. With a laugh, he slaps his belly, making it wobble as Akira munches on some food and grows bigger before trying again.*
Lit Akira: Whoo...I feel like a blimpmon.
Lit Gill: You'll feel even bigger once I'm through with you and your little friends.

Chesh: Hmhmhm! Okaaay! *floats off*
Reverse Luke: *has his arms out as his body blindly walks towards Merk* Uh, just keep him in sight, I dunno if we should be leaving him alone. Oh, and give me my head back...
*Chesh slowly floats over into town, where the first thing he does is go over to a sweets store...And takes a lollipop and sticks it into his mouth before floating away. Without paying, of course.*

Fauxu: Don't worry! You have him struggling Akira!
Urstaerok: Keep at it!
*While they found the time between magical blasts towards the enemies to cheer on Akira as he made steady progress toward defeating Gill, Sirius seemed more content to let his own gluttony show. He did slow down as he grew, but he seemed to only become ever more destructive. Nimble slashes and bites were traded for weighty stomps that shook the arena, heavy slams that flattened those unfortunate enough to be caught beneath the whale of a wolf, and messy chomps that reduced enemies to splatters along the ground while the rest of them added onto the canid's swollen form. Glancing at Akira and grunting slightly, he elected to attempt a display of might, lowering down before charging into a crowd of enemies to knock them to the sides. Garo faired similarly slashing with dark blades of energy and leaping leaping up and slamming down with enough force to pancake those caught beneath him, and cause quakes that would test the balance of even the most sturdy of individuals. What kept him somewhat on par with Sirius was his vacuum breath, which drew in countless foes.*

Erik: *sweat drops while Merk obliges Reverse Luke and hands his head back to his body. With that, both of them followed after Chesh to see what he had in mind. Erik did look a tad bit disapproving as he took a lollipop, although he knew that this was by far one of his more tame stunts.*

*Once more, the pair slam into each other. Three minion squads are appearing at a time, trying to overwhelm the party with sheer numbers. Gill slams himself into Akira, and Akira...shoves him back with his belly. The minions stop coming as Gill stumbles out of the ring, which flickers before disappearing.*
Lit Gill: No, nooo! This form isn't stable outside the circle! Noooo! *reaches out*
*...Nothing happens. Akira lets out a burp as Gill blinks.*
Lit Gill: Oh, looks like Dad forgot to put in the special effects. *stands up* Welp, you guys win!
Lit Akira: That's it? No prize?
Lit Gill: Oh, the prize is back at the entrance. C'mon, let's go and get it. *walks out of the arena*

Chesh: I'm glad you guys are as evil as me.
Reverse Luke: Wait, how did you rationalize that?
Chesh: Oh come now. I did something naughty, and neither of them are saying anything. At best, Erik and Merk are allowing me to do as I please. *Sits on his tail and smiles, crossing his legs while looking at the group*
Reverse Luke: *thinks* ...But they clearly disapprove of your actions.
Chesh: Sure. But if you allow evil to flourish unchallenged, does it matter?
Reverse Luke: Ah, that one saying about not doing anything and being as guilty? I think that's how it sort of goes.

*Sirius gives a toothy grin, which may have been highly visible, were it not for his very full cheeks. Fauxu and Urstaerok had fallen back to use the pair of gluttons as cover, perhaps preparing to join in the gluttony as well. Garo remained true to his tactics, inhaling enemies far and wide. Then suddenly, the number of enemies began to dwindle. A look behind them showed that Akira had won and Gill was... still there.
Fauxu: Huh... *snickers* I agree with Sirius; you both seem to have forgotten some details when planning this dungeon out.
Urstaerok: I concur. *looks up to Sirius* Are you-
Sirius: BURRRRRRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAP!! ....*clears his throat* Pfft, I'm fine. Gill always makes his food fattening rather than filling.
Fauxu: Aw, you were wonderful, you big blubber butt you. *squeezes the wolf's belly to see just how true his statement was.*
Sirius: *blushes immensely* Err, l-let's just go and see what the prize is.
Garo: Hehehe, that was awesome though!
*slowly but surely, Fauxu and Urstan led the way out while the two titanic gluttons lumbered along behind them, nervous glances being cast at the room entrance...*

*The pair looked at each other in confusion with Chesh's statement*
Erik: Tch, you seem to rarely listen to us when we do call you out on matters far worse.
Merk:...Well, we could still do so.
Erik: ...Point taken. Fine. *looks back to Chesh* Did you have any particular reason for shoplifting?

*While the party is traversing back through the dungeon, all the rooms they pass by has changed. It looks like the pink river has stopped flowing, the party decor is missing, the banquet table is empty, it looked like all the traps were removed following their victory. That didn't mean the trip back was completely calm, though. Every door seemed to become clingy to the biggest members' hips. Also...*
Lit Akira: Can we take a break? My knees are killing me.
*Akira was very much not used to being so large, if his lack of stamina was any indication. Gill didn't seem to mind at all, even admiring his work as he just smiled and stared at everyone.*

Chesh: *shrugs* Not really. I just felt like eating something sweet, so I found something to put in my mouth.
Reverse Luke: Aaand...There are no other reasons to give?
Chesh: Well, I could give something noble, but any excuse would be saying the ends justify the means. And that excuse is just a way to ignore any evil by saying it is outweighed by a greater good!
Reverse Luke: ...Then, what are you saying, exactly?
Chesh: *grins* I am serving a greater good by alleviating the world's boredom. If everyone was a goody goody that followed the rules and whatnot, it would be so dreadfully weary and mundane. *extends his hands* See how that excuse is total bull? No matter what I say, I will be looked down on for my actions. Especially when what's good or bad is completely dependent on what the observer has to say. In this case, Erik and Merk. And you too, but I doubt you have a very stable moral compass.
Reverse Luke: Excuse me? I'm pretty sure I do.
Chesh: Yeah, that's what everyone thinks. But everyone is a little bit messed up inside. *grins at the pair of dragons* Wouldn't you agree?

*The party followed along, with Garo and Sirius testing the width of the most of the doorways, working quickly to free themselves so they could continue onward.*
Fauxu: *chuckles* Aw don’t worry Akira. Think of the reward! The cake waiting for us back home!
Urstaerok:… I’m not sure that second one is the best motivator at the moment. *looks to think* I don’t believe it’s much farther, Akira. *cracks a small grin* If you’d like, I can roll you. Because I’m not sure carrying you is an option like that.
Fauxu: *gasps* A joke from the gruff grizzly? Ooooh, is this a sign of growth?
Urstaerok: *frowns* No. It’s logic. We should to make progress, and that would ease the burden. *under his breath* And save my knees….
Garo: *huffing and puffing* Haaaa…. I would like to… but I also really wanna see what the prize is…

Erik: *sweat drops* I mean…
Merk: Well…
*They seemed unprepared for a moral and ethical argument from Chesh, and were soon asked another question by Chesh*
Merk:….
Erik: I would say most individuals are fairly complex. This includes the Creator’s children and their cousins. *Eyes Chesh* And you, of course.

Lit Akira: *gulp* That cake better be good!
Lit Gill: Oooh, if you let me make you bigger, we can do the rolling suggestion.
Lit Akira: Let's talk after getting out of here.
*They eventually get back to the first room, with Gill heading over to the gift shop. He talks to the imp there for a second before presenting the group with a single shirt with golden trim.*
Lit Akira: ... "I beat the dungeon, and all I got was this shirt."
Lit Gill: Pretty neat, huh? And for a measly ten gold, you can buy some commemorative photos of your adventure!
*The imp on the stand pulls out a laptop and shows them hidden camera pictures of their time in the different trap rooms, with plenty more pictures during the climactic fight in the Kitchen Sink arena.*
Lit Akira: ...Why a shirt?
Lit Gill: Cause I have plenty of these golden threads, and don't really know what to do with them.
Lit Akira: Wait, they're magic? That's an enchanted shirt?
Lit Gill: Yup!
Lit Akira: Cool, so what does it do?
Lit Gill: It's a surprise!

Chesh: Sure, that's a nicer way of saying it. Luke, if you wanna know what being a mortal is like, just know that they're all pretty screwed up in the head. I just happen to be more open and honest about it.
Reverse Luke: ...But, you're not even mortal. You're a god.
Chesh: *shrug* And what is a god, but a mere title? *grins widely* I do so love having new followers to Ultimate Despair.
Reverse Luke: *appears to protest, but stops* ...
Chesh: Heheheh! One day, I will regain my full power. Then, perhaps, I will be able to awaken my sleeping brother without the aid of that two-headed beast. Until then, I'm happy to have you guys by my side!
*Erik and Merk could feel a very faint glimpse of Chesh's honesty in his last sentence.*
message: Thou art I, and I am thou.
Thou hast attained a new vow.
The power of the 0th Arcana, the Jester, the power of spontaneity and freedom, is now yours.
Reverse Luke: ... *turns to the pair* I don't think we've made it fully...Official yet. But, I want to be able to spend time with you, and learn more from you. About what it means to be a mortal, to "live" and...Just...Exist. I hope you'll teach me.
message: Thou art I, and I am thou.
Thou hast attained a new vow.
The power of the 20th Arcana, the Aeon, the power of understanding and acceptance, is now yours.

Fauxu: *snickers* If you thought the birthday was good-
Urstaerok: *grumbles, though a look toward him would seem to indicate his stomach was the one grumbling.*....
Fauxu:.... Hehehe, alright, we'll save the food talk for when we're home.
*Although, when they see the prize, there was a bit of silence for how mundane it looked*
Urstaerok:...
Garo:...Hey, wait a minute, isn't that gold thread...uh... that stuff that makes clothing stretch to fit the wearer? Like it's literally indestructible, from a standpoint of outgrowing it.
Sirius: I mean... ok, that's great but...
Fauxu: Oh hey! There's some pretty good pictures here!
Sirius: *flushes red as one of his more gluttonous moments were photographed* Err...
Fauxu:... Welp, anyone want to try it on and see what else it does, if anything?

Erik: *sighs* Well that's one way of putting it.
Merk: I mean, he's not wrong. Some immortals can be...varied as well.
Erik: Err, that might be opening up a debate one what makes an immortal beyond a greatly extended lifespan.
*Still, the pair took some note of Chesh's honesty, Erik finding it just one more reason for his mixed opinion of him. But... for better or worse, they were now able to bond with him. And now, they were able to bond with Reverse Luke*
Erik: *nods* I hope I'm able to teach that, Luke. *looks out in the distance* Regardless of how you define it, living and being mortal is complex and varied, with everyone having their own motives and reasoning.
Merk:... *chuckles* Well, hanging out with us is bound to provide a good overview of that. At the House, with all of our allies, or any of this World's many, many Zones.

Lit Akira: Wait, indestructible clothing? Um...I guess that'd be pretty invaluable to a glutton. But does it have to be this shirt? Can we take it out?
Lit Gill: ... *thinks* ...I guess you could, if you had a really talented seamstress. Or guy seamstress.
Lit Akira: Seamster. Or tailor is the word you're looking for.
Lit Gill: Yeah, one of those. *turns to Fauxu* An extra 5 gold, and we'll throw in a neat photo frame!
Lit Akira: Mmm, I say Sirius can have the shirt, since he's our fearless leader and all.

Reverse Luke: *looks at Merk* ...Then...Is being a mortal all about...Food?
Chesh: Hahahahahaha! Aaah, let's get going. We gotta break the news to everyone about your newest bosom buddy! *Is already floating back to the house*

*Another moment of silence for the realization of what the shirt could do.*
Sirius: *sighs*
Garo: Oh! Oh! *waves his hand excitedly* My brother's a tailor! *looks a bit torn* Buuuut the shirts kinda nice though. *catching a few glances from the rest of the group, he sweated* Ok, maybe nice isn't the right word, but still, pulling the thread out might destroy it. Most tailors would say that I think.
Sirius:... *grumbles*
Fauxu: Hm. Well we'll think about that. It's perhaps time for us to be heading back.
Urstaerok:... Maybe the reward was meant to be the food was saw along the way?
Sirius: *scoffs* Let's just get going.

Merk; *tilts his head from side to side* I think it's a big part of it, yes, hehe.
Erik: *face palms* Maybe don't use us as an example of what being a mortal's all about. *thinks before shrugging* Hopefully, you'll find similarities between some of our allies and the Groups here. It's about food, yes. And... well hobbies, adventures, strength, bonds, friendships, it's hard to pin down, but the Groups and their many interests might be a good teaching point. *clears his throat* If looking at us only brings to mind food.
Merk: *looks to Chesh* I though Luke was already wel-*catches a look from Erik* Ah.
Erik: Yeah... let's head back.

Lit Gill: Okay then. *proceeds to shove the shirt into Sirius' hands before helping Akira along. Well, less helping and more poking and prodding his side as they exit the cave.*
Lit Akira: Well, uh, you could probably get the thread if you decide to scrap the shirt, right?
Lit Gill: But who would do such a horrible twisted thing like that, right?

*Erik's group head back to the house, around the same time as Sirius' party returns as well.*
Chesh: Seems like they had a lot of fun. *proceeds to float around the place humming something to himself.*
Lit Gill: Hey guys!

Sirius: *blinks as he’s now holding the shirt. Sighing, he lumbered along with the rest of the group as they made their journey back to the house. At the moment, he wasn’t sure what to do about the prize from the dungeon.*
*Both parties returned to the house, catching sight of one another, with Erik gawking lightly and chuckling warmly when he saw Sirius. Merk blinked a few times, though looked on approvingly as well.*
Erik: I’m inclined to agree with Chesh on this occasion. *nods with a smile*
Sirius: *tosses the shirt to Garo, who catches it, despite his bewilderment.* I need to talk to someone.
Erik:… Oh? Well, I’m here if- *watches on as Sirius goes to… less grab Altrios, and more shove him in the direction of the house.*
Merk: Is everything alright?
Fauxu: Oh, I think he had fun. Like, he really went after the baddies Gill sent out when it was clear we were at the boss. But… I don’t know, he seemed like he had something on his mind, or whatever was on his mind got aggrivated the moment he found out we were escorting Akira. *looks back and around* Okay, to clarify before anyone says anything, it was after he heard the dungeon theme was annoying escort mission. Akira just happened to play the role of the annoying escort, under orders from the dungeon makers.
Urstaerok: I noticed that as well.
Erik: Hm… I see.
Garo: Soooo I’m gonna go see if Korigen can get the thread out without breaking it. If nothing else, I know he likes looking at other stitching styles *wobbles off to find the penguin-hawk, thinking briefly about returning the shirt to the wolf.*

Lit Gill: Mmm...I think he liked it.
Lit Akira: *lays on the ground* Uhuh...
Reverse Luke: ... *blinks as he stands there unsure what to do next*
Half Wil: *catches sight of Sirius and Altrios entering the house and decides to follow them secretly.* Hmm.

Fauxu: Ehhh… I think he wanted to enjoy the dungeon. He picked out his party more as a function of who hadn’t really been out that much than who was the best fit.
Urstaerok:……
Fauxu: Hey, don’t give me that look. We’re all skilled. And going into a dungeon for the first time makes it hard to create a quote unquote “optimal” group. But… you have to admit, an easy solution is just bring three other over powered individuals to get the dungeon over with. Heck, just bring Porcius and most of the dungeon would probably be consumed, and there’d be a massive hog to use as cover. But… I at least feel like he just wanted to have fun with us, and Gill. Maybe put on a few dozen pounds, definitely see what dungeon had been developed, but… generally chill out.
Erik:… And you think something was bugging him?
Fauxu: Well, it’s not like there have been other events with the goal of being annoying, eh?
Erik:…I can’t tell if you’re being serious or rhetorical behind that mirthful snout of yours.

Altrios: Ack! *gets shoved into Sirius’ room* Alright, so what’s got your fur up so much? You look like you did most of the trap-tripping, or hopefully most of the eating.
Sirius: *is silent for a long moment* I… don’t know if I can stay here.
Altrios:…Ok, any particular reason why? Everything’s been going pretty calmly these last few days.
Sirius: I don’t appreciate being made into a punchline constantly, nor do I appreciate the others being made into that. And now he…*growls* at this point I don’t get it! He makes a dungeon to be deliberately annoying. Wh-what’s he expecting the reaction to be? Joy? Humor? “Oh, we have to escort this idiot and get punished if we lose sight of him for a moment. What a laugh!”
Altrios:…So the dungeon run went…
Sirius: *deep breath* It went fine. We won: a tacky shirt that can’t be outgrown, but we won. *grumbles* That at least I can generously pass off as lack of planning.
Altrios: *snickers* Yeah, and you look like you enjoyed a lot of Lit Gill’s conjuring, given the glance I got of the other two you went out with. *clears his throat* But.. I’m sensing that it wasn’t what you expected?
Sirius: No, it was just another bit of his “humor”. The same “humor” that thinks it’s funny to threaten others’ lives and then act like nothing happened, like he didn’t try and kill us, by close proxy or otherwise. And I… can’t discern where the joke ends! How am I to know this isn’t some secret trial he’s plotting to throw back up in our faces at a later point, yet another stupid grudge, yet another of his games!
Altrios: *sweat drops* Ok… I think you might be letting your imagination run in all sorts of directions. But… knowing you, you wouldn’t be this on edge without a reason. *shrugs, seeing the wolf’s ears flatten* I’ve tried guessing at it… and I won’t press further. Pretty sure I’m close, what with you looking at every event like an assassination attempt on Erik, though… this is a somewhat newer angle. Not unrelated, but not the same either.
Sirius: *sighs exhaustedly, and depressedly* It all feels like teasing at best, and a threat at worst. All under the auspice of fun…

Lit Gill: Yeah, he looked pretty agitated in the trap rooms.
Lit Akira: Oh yeah, I kinda noticed, but he seemed to just get more and more upset during the dungeon. At least until the final fight where he got to just smash things up and started enjoying himself.
Lit Gill: Hmm...Is that why he tasted kinda spicy when I was handing him the shirt?

Half Wil: *Is leaning on the wall outside the room, quietly listening in to the conversation. He lets out a small sigh as he looked at the door. He shook his head before he knocks on the door.* Hey Sirius, you alright in there? I heard you went on that dungeon raid and then ran in there. Did it not go well?

Erik: *looks between the speaking members for a long moment* Wait- he tasted… *sighs shaking his head* Right, demon senses.
Urstaerok: *shrugs* Yellow balloons with P on them might bring back troubling memories.
Fauxu: Snrk! Heeeehee.
Urstaerok: *grunts and huffs* You are immature. Fine, yellow balloons with the LETTER P on them might bring back troubling memories.
Fauxu: Hehe, still funny. *nods* But yeah, he might have been trying to save his appetite and weight for the final battle, where he could just cut loose. *shrugs* Fall into a slime pit along with way? Ah well, a delicious accident. Open a mimic chest with feeding hoses in it? Part of the experience, just hope the filling is good. Losing because of a mechanic with the stated purpose of being annoying?
Erik: A feeling of bitterness.
Fauxu: Especially if something was already bugging him. *looks around, glancing after where Garo went* Shirt’s fine, if a bit underwhelming. I think both Akira and our group had a similar reaction to it. The thread’s perhaps the most valuable part of it from a utility and monetary standpoint, and there are some decent memories with that shirt now… along with photos. *nods to Gill*
Urstaerok: I… did try to mitigate the annoyance. And I suppose both Sirius’ and my feelings softened after Akira more fully explained his role there. Fauxu and Garo put his actions into perspective also.
Erik: Hm…

Sirius: *ears shoot up, before flattening once more*… How long have you been there?
Altrios: Eh, may I?
*There was a moment of contemplation, before an answer was given. Another moment, likely with the draolf working around the wolf, and the door was open*
Altrios: Alright, uh… I’d say it went meh? *shrugs, casting a glance back towards the icy ball of fluff and blubber* He made a pig of himself and had a blast doing it but uh… *nods with his head, inviting Half Wil in* Feel like talking a bit? I think he’s got stuff to get off his chest and uh… I’m not a resident here, and we’re kind of talking about something that might require the perspective of a resident. *He was being aloof, though it was likely the two of them suspected Wil already had an idea of their discussion.*

*Both Lit Akira and Gill giggle at the immature joke.*
Chesh: *appears behind Merk and starts...Rubbing his cheeks around his snout* Could it be a competitive thing? Games of chance are often infuriating to those who prefer games of skill.
Lit Gill: Oh, hi Chesh. I didn't know you were here.
Reverse Luke: I could read his mind and see what is bothering him so. Although, that's usually something that upsets people further...
Chesh: Oh yeah. Ahem! Attention Atherusians! I am now Erik's favorite! You are all no longer needed. Your final cheques will be in the mail. Thank you for your years of service, but you're all fired. Good day.

Half Wil: Eh, long enough to get a gist. *Looks at both Sirius and Altrios before coming into the room.* So! Ahem...Ah, where to begin? Well...First off, I'm with Altrios. Dad may hold grudges, but he also forgets them after a while, especially once he's done some kind of prank on you. And second...Uh, well, how much do you know about Love Languages? You know how folks act a certain way to show they like someone? Well, that's kind of what...Well, that's how my siblings roll, so to speak. Sure, the teasing gets a lot sometimes, but it's really everyone showing they have you in mind. Also, it's Gill. What were you expecting from someone with the official title of Gluttony Demonlord? If it was Akira, well...Gill has duties on the other side stopping him from going home a lot, so you can't fully blame him wanting to do a good job, ya know? But I suspect it isn't just one person or incident that's gotten to you, huh...

Merk: *meeps lightly* Err…
Urstaerok: *shakes his head* I would argue Gill didn’t make the dungeon chance-based though. It had puzzles only Akira could solve, and we had to guide him away from dangers. *shrugs* Arguably the biggest challenge was resisting temptations.
Fauxu: *nods* The last battle was all skill. *snickers* From Akira wrestling with Gill to our brave leader becoming a big shield for us.
Erik: *nods* Thank you for your discretion, Luke. I…would rather he discuss his troubles on his terms. Having someone pry into his thoughts may make him even more guarded. *looks into the distance contemplatively* I… hope I didn’t pass on my grievances to him…
*Then Chesh makes his proclamation, which at least earned him more confused glances than ire… but the ire was there, with a pair of green and yellow eyes glaring*
Vinari: *the foxdrake rolls his eyes* We’re not in his employ. Most of us are his kin.
Kjaltan: *the stout ebon blue western-lung dragon snorts and snarls, storming up to the group, glaring at Erik* Did you invite this idiot here?! After everything he’s done, everything his… whatever his relation to the Creator is, after everything done by him, for him?!
Erik: I… look I can assure you there’s a reasonable explanation-
Kjaltan: No! There’s NO excuse for inviting a cult here, who’ve done little else but try to harm us for fun!
Erik: That’s not, he came here-
Kjaltan: Your son is scared for you because you keep betting your life with that prankster, THESE pranksters… and this is what you do?! And never mind the chief idiot seems all too fricking happy to take advantage of that fear for his own twisted amusement!
Merk: *tugs at his mane* K-Kanjin?
Erik: *stares blankly at the hybrid* … I’m not speaking to you while you’re like this.
Kjaltan: Wha- you think just walk away from this?
Erik: *looks between him and Chesh* Both of you probably need a lesson in how to read a room. *turns to walk away toward the house* I should know; it’s a skill I’m continually sharpening.
Kjaltan: Erik- *is held back by Merk*
Merk: Kanjin! What has gotten into you?
Kjaltan:…Look, I’m only concerned for you and Erik.
Merk: Oh, obviously, so you come and lecture him as all the stuff you’ve been bottling up comes out. *looks thoroughly disappointed* Sirius isn’t the only one who’s been acting on edge, though he’s perhaps the most vocal about it. Why is that? What’s going on?
Kjaltan: Erm…. *finds himself painted into a corner by his outburst, with a now suspicious Merk preventing his escape*

Sirius: *grumbles* It doesn’t feel like that.
Altrios: Eh, it’s hard to touch feelings. It’s easier to touch evidence. And there is evidence to suggest there’s a general… randomness to what the Creator does? Like he has an idea and runs after it, losing sight of what’s in front of him, or so it might seem to a… less casual more acute observer.
Sirius: *listens to Wil further on the nature of his siblings*… I… understand that. To an extent at least. It’s…a strange show of affection but…I don’t know how to feel. *pauses before scoffing lightly* Oh please, Lit Gill’s greatest fault in that dungeon is not making filling food. I’m nearly as big as this room, and still hungry! *blinks* Err.
Altrios: *snickers before laughing* D’aw, did you ever get confirmation he chose to make the food that way, or are you just covering for a stomach you rarely fill? *seeing Sirius flatten his ears and blush, he cleared his throat* Anyway, you’re saying you had expectations going in, right? And I guess you were hoping for a pleasant picnic with loot and maybe the opportunity for some mutual pleasure by smothering a demon lord?
Sirius: *shakes his head* You’re generalizing too much. But.. yeah, I knew roughly what to expect with Gill and…for the most part… *flattens his ears, almost mumbling* I picked my party based on who might want to have fun. *casting a glance at a snickering Altrios again he continued* Before you start again, strength and skill were still a part but… dad wanted to let some of the others show off a bit, maybe get the Creator to recognize and remember a few of them by actions. Akira was… arguably just one of several unknowns with that dungeon. And no, I don’t blame him, especially not after his explanation. *nods* It’s as you say, Wil; he was just performing a role. I… take more issue with who asked him to perform that role.
Altrios:…It’s not Gill, is it?
Sirius: *shakes his head* It’s not him. He designed the dungeon, with his father’s help and direction.
Altrios: Ah. So when you said another bit of “his” humor…
Sirius: Tch, one more game where we flounder around while he’s recording it for his chuckles later on, or worse, using it as a reason to do something else to us. *sighs* It doesn’t even matter if we speak up about it, it’s just going to be another guessing game the next day…

Chesh: *dramatic gasp while looking at Vinari* But that's nepotism!
Lit Akira: He just said-
*Then came Kjaltan's outburst. The Fused World residents were quiet, even a little shocked at how much emotion was being put on display, but Chesh was wiggling his mouth weirdly as he watched, equally silent. It wasn't until Merk had him on the ropes when he grinned widely.*
Chesh: Puhuhu...Puhuhuhuhuhu! *grinning wildly at Kjaltan, almost as if he expected him to go on an outburst.* Well! I guess I better go if I'm not wanted! *proceeds to vanish from sight*
Reverse Luke: ... *looks at Kjaltan* So, anything to say for yourself?
Lit Gill: *cough* ...

Half Wil: *listens intently to Sirius, trying to understand his perspective.* ...Ooh, you're worried about dad...Er, the Creator's intentions and his unpredictability, then? I suppose there is something that needs to be cleared up, perhaps. Sirius, you're assuming he's more malicious and cunning than he actually is. Look at him like he's a child, and a lot of things start to make more sense. The grudges for the tiniest things? Pretty immature. Placating him with food and games? Checks out. The teasing? Have you seen how kids interact with each other? By all means, the Creator is very much a child, with all the pains that come with interacting with one. Dad, he... *shakes his head* He is...Well...The best I can describe, a system that gained sentience. Like a force of nature that, one day...Just...Developed a mind of his own. He only sees the Fused World as a bunch of numbers that run like a video game, but after he gained the ability to socialize...He's learning. And interacting with people isn't as black and white as "action A leads to outcome B." And he's partly like this because he took in bad information. You know, like when someone says a person teases you because they like you? He's never had the experience to...To parse out the bad information from the good. So he has trouble being able to tell if his games are going over a limit. He just thinks everyone will have fun and move on. I can understand if you wanna go back to Atherus if it's getting a bit much. Or if you're just worried about everyone's safety, that's valid. But Dad does see you all as his friends and playmates, so he won't intentionally bring you to harm. *looks at Sirius for a bit before giggling* S-sorry. You just remind me of my cousin...

Merk: *catches a glimpse of Chesh briefly before he left, perhaps wondering if the hybrid’s harsh words had found their mark. Still, he was gone, and now,*
Kjaltan: Err… I would like to tell you in private.
Merk: Well, I disagree with that. You clearly have an issue with Chesh, and you managed to chase him off. Ideally, I’d like you address your grievance with him with him present, but here we are. So?
Kjaltan: How can you not- *grumbles and growls* I can explain why, just…*looks uneasily at the gathering crowd* it might be better to not-
Merk: Kanjin, please. *deep breath* What could be the reason you were willing to cause what would be a diplomatic incident on most worlds, let alone back home, and have a very messy falling out with Erikon?
Kjaltan: *grits his teeth before snarling* Sure, they get to cause ALL the “diplomatic incidents” I suppose? Up to and including making attempts on you and Erik’s lives, all while chortling like it doesn’t matter!
Merk:…Oh…. wait, do you mean… *looks around, catching sight of Gaius in the crowd, who nods slowly. A look to Rufus saw the kangaroo heave a sigh, the secret the small group of witnesses were tasked with keeping now at risk*… Right. Something bad happened? *eyes Lit Gill, Akira, and Reversed Luke* Should we… maybe adjourn to the house? Convince him an apology is in order? *Though, it was more likely he was willing to given Kjaltan the space to tell his story, without causing a further scene among their allies that might strain relations further, if his hunch was correct.*

Sirius: *nods* Essentially. *hears Wil’s explanation further, giving him a blank stare* Really? He’s older than me, older than dad… probably older than the world if he made it.
Altrios: Eeeehh, there’s a bit of logic comparing him to suddenly gaining sentience. Like if you have no frame of reference for how the world works or how to act, you have to… well, learn. *shrugs* And yeah, that’s not really a simple thing.
Sirius: *looks to think a moment before lowering his head* I… don’t know whether to feel honored or upset by that comparison.
Altrios: Hey, that’s progress. Pretty sure you would’ve known how to feel about that earlier.
Sirius: *grunts* No, I see why. And… I only feel like I have to leave because my patience is wearing thin. I nearly snapped at someone who didn’t deserve it, and…*sighs* it feels like it’s not going to end, if the Creator finds joy in annoying me. *shrugs* Hence, thinking the annoying dungeon was all to that end.
Altrios:… Well, I think it’s good you’re aware of the problem. I mean, I think you know he wouldn’t like you leaving, right? *there was a nod from the ice wolf* So… *looks between him and Wil* We try and keep pointing out the limits to him? Help him grow and understand what’s bugging us? Stop looking for traps, tricks, grand schemes and pranks everywhere, and start socializing and actually talking things out. *pauses before snickering* I’d say lay on him and force him to sit still while your explain what your grievances are, but I’m not sure he’d listen while under such wonderful blubber.
Sirius:…Heh. *seems to find some humor in the thought*

Reverse Luke: ...Aah, if this matter is something that must be handled discreetly, we should head into the house.
Lit Akira: Er, what is?
Lit Gill: Oh, wait...Does it have to do with Erik and Merk always being in danger or something? I'm just saying, the Fused World fits in the adventure genre, so there's gonna be a lot of risks involved in-
Reverse Luke: Er, not exactly, but I don't believe that to be the case here. Come, we should head inside. Now.

Half Wil: Hey, if it's any consolation, his teasing isn't exactly targeted. He just has a preference for who he teases, and they usually fall under two banners. One, people like Lyle who have a bloated overconfident ego. Two would be people like Luke, who are sticks in the mud. You just happen to fall under the latter. Did you notice how he started paying more attention to Oryn at one point? Granted, if you're still worried about him pushing your buttons, my suggestion is to act a little more carefree. You'd be giving him less ammo to get a rise out of you, at the very least. Oh, and uh...Maybe watch out if he starts copying whatever dark melodrama he saw on TV, dad is still pretty impressionable, which is why he does all sorts of...Ya know. End of the world scenarios.

*With that, Merk led the way back into the house and into one of the side rooms. Gaius and Rufus followed suit while the panda Pawan worked to diffuse the crowd outside.*
Merk: *makes sure they were away from prying ears and that everyone was accounted for* Alright, you’ve your privacy. Please continue.
Kjaltan:…To answer from Gill’s comment, I don’t appreciate being asked to trust the villain. Especially after he’s shown no effort of change and no remorse. It’s an unnecessary and frankly stupid risk.
Merk: Well… that’s fair, and we can talk about that. But there’s more, isn’t there?
Kjaltan:… Several nights ago, the Creator desired to fight Erikon. And both the idea and execution were enough to worry and frighten the other of the Creator’s children that were witnesses. Apparently, it was for a grudge, for the actions of… some time ago. And much like every other grudge he’s had some whim of wile to pursue since then, it’s more about him not wanting to deal with what he or his acolytes did! *looks to Merk* And you shouldn’t feel guilty for them throwing your past in your face when they can’t face their own without a homicide attempt!
Merk:….
Gaius: *raises his hands* We were there, too. I… think even dad knew of the risks so…we were there to help Sirius along in the event of the worst.
Rufus: *nods* Not that I disagree with how Kjaltan’s feeling but…
Gaius: Yeah, I’m with Sirius for the most part, given most of the subsequent events were… stress inducing, to put it mildly, and perhaps attempted to gloss over the issues.
Merk:….

Sirius: *raises his ears* Really? I mean, Lyle I get, if only slightly.
Altrios: Yeah, most of our origin stories are bringing down someone with an oversized ego. Usually a dragon-turned-to-spectacular-firework but then there’s the odd warlord, demonlord, corrupt “untouchable” politician, etcetera, etcetera.
Sirius: But…Luke?
Altrios: And yeah, we did notice that. Though without a reason to be a stick in the mud, he’s kind of returned to the background. *shrugs* He still butts heads with Rik, but that’s more due to their history than him providing significant resistance.
Sirius:… *grumbles*
Altrios: Hey, is talking with him still an option? Not sure he’ll change because he’s been told he shouldn’t tease and such, but it’s hopefully better than snapping at every little and not-so-little event that happens. *shrugs* Wil’s suggestion’s pretty good too, of course.
Sirius:… My issue is that being carefree would seem to require trusting him to mean what he says about not going too far, especially with the “dark melodramas”, and ignoring everyone’s objections.
*Still, it did seem like Sirius was coming around to the idea at least.*

*After listening for a bit, the Fused World residents seemed to have an idea of what was going on. It wasn't until all the cards were on the table, so to speak, when Reverse Luke spoke up.*
Reverse Luke: I'm not sure if you're looking at the situation with Chesh with the right mindset. If there's one thing I know Uncle Crey likes to do, it's efficiency, so he'll have multiple reasons to do any one thing. As for why Chesh is being stuck here, your concerns are valid. Uncle Crey is asking Erik and Merk to trust that cat. But if I could put down my two cents, this is actually beneficial in the long run. Chesh will be busy staying here annoying everyone, in a place with all these eyes, instead of running around genuinely destroying people's lives. It'll be like catsitting, he won't be able to cause trouble if there's always someone on his tail keeping him under control.
Lit Gill: As for dad wanting to fight Erik, I can see him totally doing that. Buuut, then again, he's the type to buy into the notion of boys "fighting out" their grievances and coming out closer than ever afterwards...
Lit Akira: So dad fought with Erik because of his grudge, but it was also so he could let go of it for a plausible reason.
Lit Gill: Yeah, dad is the...Okay, this may be hard to believe, but he's the shy socially awkward type. He can't bring up the guts to just apologize, so he has to jump through hoops and use these story tropes just to have an excuse to let go of his grudges.
Reverse Luke: *nods* ...He watches a lot of television with those stories. The hero squad is having an argument and the main protagonist has to fight his own friend just to get their points through. *sigh*

Half Wil: *chuckles* So the overlord of fat still butts heads with the overlord of earth, even after he softened up a bit? That's kinda cute. *looks to think* ...I don't know how effective talking to him will work, because it'd depend on his mood. I'd guesstimate he'll listen a good 70 or 80 percent of the time. Plus, if he's feeling mischievous, he'll throw out empty threats like this morning about starting up Fat World again over a breakfast burrito. But... *looks at Sirius* I do know that trusting him makes him feel less pressure to being open and honest. He'll definitely think twice when he's in a bad mood if he's told to stop by someone he feels open to, like Erik. Again, I can't reiterate this enough, his ability to socialize with others is like that of a child, so he's going to look for approval from you all that he's doing something right.

Kjaltan: Hmph.
Merk: I see the logic in that strategy. If he’s here, or hanging out with us, he’s not with his followers or causing trouble elsewhere. We might also learn more about him and maybe inspire a change as you describe. *looks to think* And… let’s just be honest: I may not know everything about his role, in fact I most likely don’t, or what he sees in bringing Despair but… the fact remains we’ve stood in his way repeatedly, and if he wanted a situation where it was just him, Jun, and a few heroes fighting it out, he could easily have let us die or gotten rid of us. *pauses* Perhaps I overestimate how much everyone cares for us, but that would cause sadness, if not despair.
Kjaltan:….
Gaius: I can kind of see the Creator’s reasoning for that as well. Again, not that I agree with giving both sides a scare like that.
Merk: *nods* Hearing about the situation, along with that explanation, I… would kind of like to believe he wanted to address what happened but… as you say, address it by fighting it out, letting the old aggressions speak before moving on. Perhaps it was for Erikon as well as him.
Gaius: Yeah, but dad kind of wanted to address it so it wouldn’t cause harm to anyone else. *shrugs* If that meant laying down his life… so be it.
Kjaltan: Tch, it didn’t come across as that then, nor when his acolyte elected to scratch at old wounds.
Rufus: Huh, gonna guess you’re talking about Reverse Lyle displaying the cause for that fight?
Gaius: Eh, it’s splitting hairs, but he’s more a follower of Chesh. Even still, I guess it’s fair to say, they’ve tried to instigate conflicts with us for the most part? Otherwise, I can’t make heads or tails of their goals.
Kjaltan: *scoffs* You’re right, I find it hard to believe he’s the type.
Merk: Ehhh, I can see it.
Kjaltan: *gives a blank stare* Merchios, he came in this morning with a blaring boombox and aired out his grievances. *pauses* With a small subsection of this world, not with us, I will admit.
Merk: Well, what I’m saying, I haven’t seen him in a lot of social settings. He mostly teleports around. He talks with us but… usually only in small groups, I suppose? And the example you gave would seem to be more him discussing his troubles with those he knows, rather than being… extroverted?
Kjaltan: Oh, if we had stood by, he would have been very extroverted. *sees the shadow dragon sweat*…But say this really was all just him trying to let go of a grudge, or let both parties blow off some steam or whatever. How are you so sure that’s it, when he continues to suggest events that could harm or kill someone, or give him something to mock us over? They nearly got Merchios trampled and captured by that “princess” whilst still pushing his faults on him like they’re plotting some form of vengeance! *At the very least, they seemed to be moving in the right direction, though the hybrid still had some unresolved fury.*

Altrios: *chuckles* Not to be that guy, but it’s Overseer. Buuut overlord kind of applies. *shrugs* And… occasionally, they still fight. Orynyx put up a lot of resistance to Rik’s appointment in the beginning before he uh… let himself go.
Sirius: *nods* I remember it was a fairly complicated debate. Essentially, they were not only declaring a whole new element, one found almost solely within individual creatures, but also appointing a dragon to oversee that element. So… Rik might be a bit defensive about his role, given he’s trying to take it seriously rather than have it be treated as a joke. *thinks* He wants a world where no one goes hungry, and no tyrant can starve a populace to ensure obedience.
Altrios: *nods* Getting back on topic, it sounds like a path to consider is being carefree enough to listen to him, but ready to talk to him. *nudges Sirius* And I mean talk, not shouting him down. *looks to think* You mention him taking joy in watching us flounder? Well… I’d say he’s taking steps to explain events further than he has in the past, going over the rules and expectations of what they are, be that combat-centered or otherwise. So, if you’ve concerns, press him for details, and he may just provide them. And if you take issue with an action, speak plainly about it. Don’t suffer in silence thinking it’s a conspiracy, or imagining threats that aren’t there.
Sirius:…. *nods slowly*

Lit Gill: *giggle* Oh yeah, the boombox thing. Dad is shy, so he'll put up a front to mask his real intentions. He usually won't show himself to just anyone, but when it's folks he considers friends, he'll wanna do it in style. Well, I say "style." And even then, he's making efforts not to be fully open with his feelings.
Reverse Luke: Ah, the Lucky Hammer shrinking Merk. That's because there's a disconnect in the Creator's thinking. Imagine a noble looking at the commoners he presides over and asking "Why not buy more food if you are so hungry?"
Lit Akira: Let them eat cake!
Reverse Luke: Uncle Crey suffers from this blind spot in his logic. He sees the world like a game, so he thought it would be fun to do all of that, and after all is said and done, poke some "light hearted jabs" at past mistakes.
Lit Gill: ...I...I suddenly realized, if dad ever watches those online video game streams where everyone just insults and swears at each other, and he starts thinking that's how friends act around each other...
Reverse Luke: *shrugs* Well some friend groups do, but it really depends. But I can see the danger if Uncle Crey gets the idea in his head that some friends can get so close they can insult each other with full knowledge that there is no malice meant.
Lit Akira: Huh. Could dad already have that view, so he likes to push people's buttons here?
Reverse Luke: Assuming that's the case, it may explain Chesh's presence. As his Shadow, Chesh would represent the Creator's lack of inhibitions, I think.

Half Wil: *shrugs* Overlord, overseer, overwatch, stop using the same word in your titles then. And maybe Rik could stand to gain by not butting heads with Oryn. Just show that he is serious through action. And maybe a healthy amount of self-deprecating humor just so everyone can laugh the tension away.
*It looked like things were taking a positive turn as Wil smiles and nods in agreement with Altrios.*
Half Wil: It also wouldn't hurt to ask us, his kids, for help. If the Creator is in a mood because something more serious happened, not the breakfast burrito thing, he's going to be a lot more touchy than normal. We'll get him to calm down before he does anything big. *pounds his palm* Oh yeah! Whatever happened to that shirt you got? It had one of those magical stretchy golden threads on it.

Kjaltan: *rolls his eye* And he couldn’t ask us for some food because…?
Merk: *chuckles* Well, let’s maybe not get
hung up on that example.
Kjaltan: *narrows his eyes* What disconnect, specifically for that to happen? Because I assure you, these jabs have felt far from “light hearted”
Rufus: *looks to think as the children converse further on the ideas in the Creator’s head* Well… if that’s the case, perhaps you should talk to him about it? *catches a sideways glance from Kjaltan before continuing* Look, I acknowledge what he’s done might go farther than a simple jab at what happened, but bearing in mind what they’ve said, sitting and stewing about it isn’t the answer.
Merk: *nods* The Creator may just need to realize there are multiple friends and that maybe throwing insults and the like is not always the best course of action with every friend.
Kjaltan: *stares blankly* I don’t think he listens.
Gaius: I mean, I have to believe talking to him isn’t as bad as blowing your top at your allies as well as the issue at hand.
Kjaltan:….
Merk: Speaking of Chesh that way, it feels like it’s easy to forget he’s one of the Creator’s Shadows. He seems…quite independent at times. Not that that fully disconnects him from the Creator, but perhaps lacking inhibition gives him a broader, more complex, personality than the other Shadows. *looks to think before addressing Kjaltan once more* That said, I do think you should at least talk to him, as I think you gave him more of a reaction than he was expecting.
Kjaltan: Tch, don’t play with fire if you don’t like the heat.
Merk: Kanjin.
Kjaltan:….

Sirius: *nods* Like we said, it’s less frequent now, mostly because Oryn’s less of a… well…
Altrios: Stick in the mud.
Sirius: Essentially. I think he even quietly supports some of Rik’s efforts. But… *sighs* I think your advice is sound.
*With the conversation shifting back to Sirius.*
Sirius:…Alright, I think I can do that. But… yes, as you say, if something more serious is going on, please let us know, Wil? Because… well I think most of us do care about what happens here, so if we can help with an issue, we likely will. *looks to think* I do stress the if, but it seems most issues are within our capabilities.
*thinks a moment before answering*
Sirius: I gave it to Garo to see about having the gold thread removed. While the shirt intact.
Altrios: Oh right, to see what Korigen the tailor had to say about that.
Sirius: *nods* At the very least, he’ll have given a verdict on whether the shirt can remain undamaged, and will have declined if his efforts would have destroyed it. *pauses* Did you want to go and see him to check?

Reverse Luke: ...I'll just say, don't ever go on the internet.
Lit Akira: Ah yeah, the jabs I've heard is pretty wild.
Reverse Luke: Just as an example... *In a different voice* I hope you're going through a tough time and I completely ignored your troubles.
Lit Gill: I hope you call me in your time of need so I can put you on mute.
Lit Akira: I can't wait to go to your funeral and use it for my own gain.
Reverse Luke: *In his normal voice* And the Creator truly believes his jabs are soft and friendly by comparing it to the craziest jabs between friends. Yes, this is from some random video game stream the Creator found at one time.
Lit Gill: Wait, what!? I was hoping he wouldn't find one like that!
Reverse Luke: Regardless, Uncle Crey will have to listen to your emotions, as bottling them up is akin to hiding them. He'll just assume everyone is enjoying it if he doesn't detect any negative ones you're not putting on display. And if he doesn't make him! It takes a few tries to get his focus, but once you have it, do what you can to keep it before he wanders off somewhere.
Lit Gill: Yeah, he does that a lot.

Half Wil: *nods* Honestly, yeah. It's a neat shirt, and I think Gill probably gave it to you since you were the leader who brought everyone to victory. Which...Brings to mind another factor to consider. Ya gotta stop thinking you're being targeted, man! Gill literally could've given it to anyone else, and it would've still applied!

Kjaltan: *sighs* It sounds like you’re saying he needs to spend more time outside.
Merk: *giggles* Off topic, this is a prime example of how individuals can be very complicated Luke. Not… necessarily messed up, but not easy to understand.
Gaius: Eh, well he was bound to find one of those eventually.
Kjaltan:….
Merk: *chuckles* I think Erik would take some umbrage with “making” the Creator do anything but…
Rufus: It’s what we’ve been trying to say. Not speaking while quietly cursing as it happens, or loudly blurting out what’s wrong when it gets to be too much, can and will lead to another incident like this.
Merk *looks lost in thought*…
Gaius: *takes note of his silence* Are you ok, grandfather?
Merk: Oh, uh, yeah. I just… heard something similar said elsewhere.
Kjaltan:….
Gaius: *snickers* Hey, if you want to get his attention, he might enjoy getting pinned underneath blubber.
Kjaltan: *frowns* I’m not here for his enjoyment
Merk: Pfft, I think that would give him the wrong idea anyway. He’s mine to stuff and romance. *snickers as well while the dragon hybrid blushes* In any case, I think we agree talking is the right course of action, yes? So… my suggestion would be to start by apologizing.
Kjaltan: *grumbles*… I’d already intended to do so with Erikon. But Chesh….
Merk: I think they both at least should hear why you care so much. *glances at Luke* I know what we heard earlier during our excursion with Chesh but… I choose to believe the reason why something happens deserves to be heard. Because that may also influence what others take away from an action. It may change nothing or everything, but silence seems to guarantee the former. *shrugs* And we’ve seen what drawing the wrong conclusion about an action can bring.

Sirius: *nods* Alright, let’s go see them. *prepares to leave the room, before blinking and before flattening his ears* Hey, explain to me why he decided to make a deliberately annoying dungeon then? I know the Creator knows how to make a dungeon; he literally took a dungeon type few enjoy and made it enjoyable. And I… suspected Gill would use more traditional traps. *shrugs*
Altrios: *snickers* Pressure plates, bloat darts, chocolate pits, and the like.
Sirius: Essentially. I mean… before I attempt to address the design with Gill and the Creator, as I do acknowledge it was likely not solely one or the other’s idea, it seems like said design was made to… ehem, push the buttons of whoever went, be that dad, grandfather or one of our allies. *clears his throat* From the perspective of an overactive imagination on the outside looking in.

Reverse Luke: Eh, it wouldn't hurt to step outside his room more.
Lit Gill: I think we have a good idea of where to go from here. So how about we have some celebratory pie?
Lit Akira: *burp* Pass, I'm going home...

Half Wil: Most likely reason? He got bored with "normal" dungeons where you just go in and fight the big bad. I mean, traditional stuff is fine, but today might've been one of those days where they wanted to try other things out. And if they decided that the theme was going to be an escort mission, they might've focused more on how to get to Akira than to his guardians leading him around.

Merk: *chuckles* Well, I think Gill’s right. And we’ll join you after we take care of some things first.
Kjaltan:… Well, if you mean apologizing to Erik, I can do that.
Merk: I do. And Chesh, if we can find him.
Kjaltan: *grumbles* Tonight?
Merk: Yes tonight, if we can find him.
Kjaltan: *grumbles*
Merk: *nods* We’ll join you all in the courtyard in a moment hopefully. *shrugs as the pair leave.* Unless you’d like to join us?
Gaius: Eh I’ll see you in the courtyard.
Rufus: *nods* Likewise.

Sirius:… *deep sigh* Well, I will try to bear that in mind should I discuss the dungeon with them.
Altrios: Huh, so we’re still checking up on the shirt?
Sirius: Yes we are, and… uh… maybe checking the status of dinner?
Altrios: *snickers* Alright, alright, shirt check then feasting.

Lit Gill: Yeah! Dinner!
Reverse Luke: Uh, woohoo. Metabolic fuel.
Lit Akira: I'm leaving. *walks out the door*
Half Wil: *chuckles and turns to open the door* It's a neat-looking shirt! We may as well check on it while dinner is being cooked. *sees Lit Akira waddling out of the house* Oh, hey Akira!
Lit Akira: Bye. *leaves*
Half Wil: Huh. Guess he's skipping dinner tonight.

Sirius: *looks on as Lit Akira leaves* Well, he did somewhat spoil his dinner in the dungeon.
Altrios: *snickers, eying Sirius * I thought Gill was supposed to have made the food less filling?
Sirius: Oh hush.
*Finding Garo was easy enough; given he was the only other member from the dungeon excursion to come home massively fattened. He was with Korigen, we seemed to be examining the shirt intensely.*
Garo: Hm? Oh! Hey guys, is everything alright now?
Altrios: More or less, we just learned why we need to talk things out more.
Sirius: Essentially. What is the status of the shirt?
Garo: Eh…. inconclusive? I think he’s studying how it was woven in, though it might be difficult to remove the thread without ruining the shirt.

*Elsewhere, Merk and Kjaltan sought out Erik, who sequestered himself to what was a study within the house. Merk knocked on the door and was able to gain them entry into the space.*
Merk: Erik? Are you busy? I bought someone who has something to say.
Erik: *eyes the pair of them before nodding slowly*… Go on.
Kjaltan: *clears his throat* I… may have overreacted slightly. But that’s only because I care about this family. And I don’t trust Chesh’s intents. It’s as I said before; he and his… allies, have done little more than torment and threaten us. Especially Sirius, as you probably know. It had left us both guarded and unwilling to see past what they had done then, especially as it seemed that they derived humor from our suffering.
Erik:… *nods quietly as the dragon appeared to be more careful in his language.* You’re using past-tense. Does that mean something has changed? *looks to Merk* I take it he knows now.
Kjaltan: *nods* I spoke with some of the children. And uh… yeah, he caught on to what happened and prevented me from…well…
Merk: Ehhhh if I said I see why you kept this a secret. I merely worked to stop others from hurling insults at Chesh and the Creator.
Kjaltan: In any case, the children helped me see a way forward for interacting with… those two. I’m willing to at least try it. I will say I was wrong for calling your judgement into question so… vocally. But I wasn’t sure you appreciated what they’d done from my perspective, nor what would happen if you perished for them.
Erik:… Well, you’re right about how vocally you did it, and I’d hope you refrain from a repeat offense. But… I have been questioning my decisions. I’m not sure it was fair to burden you with keeping a secret of this magnitude. Although, I had no idea events would take place as they have. That is to say, I was surprised he went after Jera… and uh… well we can discuss the other events, but suffice to say they were unexpected. *looks to think* I can see things from your and Sirius’ perspective. I mean, I’m far from innocent when it comes to jumping to conclusions about their actions and goals. And… I hope I haven’t passed on that trait to Sirius through what has happened.
Kjaltan: I wouldn’t mind elaborating further on the potential path forward, especially if Chesh is to remain here. *looks around* Have you… seen him? *scoffs glancing back at Merk* This one won’t let me get away without apologizing to him.
Erik: *shrugs* I honestly don’t know. *looks between them* He teleports around. If we see him again though, you can tell him what you’ve told me.

*A closer look at the shirt reveals that while the ends of the thread are hidden under the fabric's sewing, if it was cut free, it would be as simple as just pulling it out.*
Half Wil: *stepping out into the courtyard and checking the sky* Hmm...Still a little early for dinner, but right about the time meal prep starts.
Lit Gill: Oooh, I wonder what the chefs have planned this time?
Reverse Luke: I do hope it has a good supply of protein and carbohydrates.
*The Creator's kids had gone on to wait for dinner while Erik dealt with Kjaltan. Very slowly, the ones staying in the house were also wandering out for food as well.*
Merc Akira: Food! Food! Food!
Tech Lyle: Oh calm down. You'll get your share.
Tech Drake: Heheheh, I bet he spent a while fantasizing about Gill's food dungeon.
Merc Akira: Hey, I did not!
Show Drake: *is keeping a lookout for Erik*

Korigen: *nodding affirmatively, he grasps the golden thread and carefully pulls it out of the shirt, watching to ensure no damage was being inflicted to the shirt.*
Sirius: *sighs impatiently*
Altrios: Hehe, easy there. Dinner will be ready soon.
Sirius: Meh, I’m also wondering what we’ll be doing in the mean time though.
*A look around would show that the chefs were preparing the usual meals, in exorbitant amounts. Still as time progressed, the air filled with the complex mixture of scents from the meat being cooked, stews being stirred, and spices being added. After the discussion, Erik, Merk and Kjaltan left the house as well to survey what was going on out in the courtyard.*
Merk: So… did we have any other plans for the evening?
Erik: Not really. It’s a bit late to go out on another excursion. And…. well, we could try and find where Chesh went, but… that’s kind of hard when we don’t know where he went.*
Merk: *nods slowly before catching sight of Show Drake, giggling lightly* Well, I can think of one thing you could attempt….

*There was a bit of resistance, but as more and more of the golden thread is pulled free, it becomes easier to pull until the thread is fully out, and intact too! The shirt seemed to shimmer for a second before the magic making it stretch vanishes.*
Lit Gill: Mmmm, it all smells so good!
Light Elly: *yawns* I want a parfait.
Merc Akira: It's not healthy to have dessert for dinner...
Light Elly: ... *pulls out hedge shears* I need more stuffing.
Tech Drake: Eh, how about no...
Show Drake: *continues to keep an eye out for Erik, and should he spot him he'll flee the opposite direction.*

Korigen: *nods slowly muttering to himself as he examines the now freed thread and ordinary shirt* Hm… less of a loose thread, and more of a means of modularity? At the very least, woven in to resist being torn out… *notices the group* Ah. Your shirt and the material. *hands both items back to Sirius*
Garo: Eh, don’t you want the thread?
Korigen: It’s not my prize. And I’m sure I can ask Lit Gill for his source.*
Sirius: Aw Korigen ,it could at least be payment for your time.
Korigen: *looks at him askew* For a few moments and a gentle tug? I could never.
Sirius: *thinks before nodding* Alright. Thank you. *turns to leave before catching sight of Light Elly and sighing exasperatedly* Could we… I don’t know, just get cheat codes for her or something?
Altrios: *snickers*
Sirius: Hey, I’m just voicing my annoyance. We’re supposed to bond with her, but she isn’t coming to us with her troubles, and it feels like she just sees us for materials. It’s a far cry from the others where they do an activity with us and maybe decide to talk more about what is going on…. which reminds me, I never asked how dad’s trip went.
Altrios: Point taken. And in fairness, a lot has been going on, and we haven’t really been bonding with everyone. *shrugs* Could just be her way of letting us know she’s still here with a quest in mind or something. *looks to him expectantly* Maybe add her to the schedule for tomorrow? Or hey, there’s still time before dinner. *a wry grin spreads* Unless you’re worried your belly will offer some noisy resistance to her falling asleep.
*A huff in response came, as the two of them continue to chat, making their way back to the crowd.*
Erik: And what was your idea?
Merk: *snickers whispering something into Erik’s ear and gesturing to Show Drake*
Erik: *looks to think* And you’re sure this is wise?
Merk: Well… it’s a conversation starter. *nods to Kjaltan* Don’t worry about us. We’ll find Chesh if I have to lay out a bowl of cream to draw him out.
Kjaltan: Ah. How intuitive.
Erik: *thinks before shrugging* As you wish. *parts ways with them, turning into a wolf to better blend with the gathering allies in the courtyard. Shifting his colors would hopefully obscure his movements and help him blend in with the other canids in the crowd, but he did make an effort of staying in Show Drake’s blindspots as he attempted to sneak up on him from behind.*

*When dinner is eventually served, most of the kids all line up to grab their own exorbitantly oversized shares. And while food is being eaten, Show Drake continued to keep a look out, unaware of how close Erik is.*
Fetish Akira: *is eatiing a burger* Sho goodch!
Reverse Luke: Don't talk with your mouth full. It's unsanitary.
Half Wil: *eating dumplings* Hey, he just means compliments to the chef.

*Once dinner was served, Sirius and Altrios joined the others in getting food. Sirius was happy to dine on stews, steaks, bread rolls and biscuits, eager to sate his hunger, along with Altrios who was quite happy to enable the wolf’s gluttony. He was joined by Urstaerok and Fauxu, who seemed eager to make up for their restraint during the dungeon expedition.*
Fauxu: *dining on dumplings as well* And I’m sure they appreciate, hehe!
Merk: *is still diligently looking for Chesh along with Kjaltan* Hm…
Kjaltan: *grumbles lightly*
Merk: Alright, alright, let’s go and prepare the summoning bowl of cream.
Erik: *sneaks up behind Show Drake, turning back into a dragon and pressing his scaled belly into his back* Hello there. Would you like to talk?

*It doesn't look like Chesh is present anywhere.*
Show Drake: Eeeeee! *turns around* Uh, hey Erik! *loud coughing* I wasn't trying to start a tryst or something. Honest!
Tech Elly: Smooth.
Shadow Lyle: Heheheh...I can't be hear to watch, or I'll choke on my food. *walks away*

Merk: *nods* Alright! Time for the secret weapon. *produces a jug of cream and a large bowl, gingerly pouring the former into the latter and setting it down*
Kjaltan:... Is this really going to work?
Merk: Well, it's one of his weaknesses so... *shrugs* we won't know until we try.
Erik: *sweat drops* Somehow I believe you, given your efforts appear more geared towards surveillance or the like. But I do feel we should talk, given that I believe nervously watching out for me will impede your efforts at rehearsal. So, I would ask if you'd like to sit and converse, if not with me, then with those you will likely be working with while staying here. *A look at him showed he was very serious about this. He wasn't there to laugh at Show Drake, but hopefully provide earnest help towards his goals, and seemed ready to acknowledge, it might be too awkward for him to do it personally.*

Show Drake: O-oh! Um, er...Al-alright then. *looks around at all the people eating* ...I just realized, I was busy trying to avoid you that I didn't get anything...
Half Wil: *passes by Merk and looks at the bowl of cream* ...You realize, as capricious as Chesh is, he's not gonna show his face immediately, right?

Erik: *smiles before looking around, nodding after Drake spoke* Mhm, it is another aspect of staying here you’d miss out on by watching out for me. *gestures with his head* Shall we go an get some food? I’m reasonably certain we haven’t run out. *chuckles*
Merk:…. *sighs* Alright, it might have been a bit of wishful thinking. *looks to think* Depending on how he’s feeling about what happened, I suppose it is unrealistic to expect him to come right back.
Kjaltan: *stares blankly* How he’s feeling?
Merk: *nods* A smiling face does not necessarily denote cheerfulness. To your point, this likely isn’t the first time he’s been called out for his actions: we’ve seen many of his interactions with Jun, after all. But… if his goal is to prevent boredom from taking root, then perhaps coming up with activities weighs on him too? *shrugs* I may be overthinking it, but I’m not sure it’s correct to presume just because he appears to lack inhibitions that he enjoys being random, or at least that he’s completely unfazed when chastised about what he’s done.
Kjaltan:…. *appears to think back on something*
Merk: *nudges him* What I do know is that it can’t be discounted that he may have received more of a reaction than he was expecting. So if he needs time away, that’s understandable. *shoots him a glance* Don’t think you’re getting out of explaining yourself though.
Kjaltan: *shakes his head* I wasn’t. I’ll make what should be obvious known, and he’ll make of it what he will. *shrugs*
Merk: Well, give a little bit of leeway, eh? What’s obvious may sometimes still be obscured.

Show Drake: Um, okay then. *goes to get some pizza* So, you don't...Feel anything about the roleplaying flirting thing?
Half Wil: *frowns* ...Actually, I'm a bit more worried of something else. He's the God of Chaos, sure, but he's also known as the God of Despair. He gains power from that, including his own. Jun stopping his initial rampage led to him losing most of his power, but...What if he's doing all of this to regain it? He already has an incredibly twisted way of showing affection. He considered Jun and those other classmates of theirs his closest friends, so instead of just having them killed, he put them through a death game. If Kanjin made him feel despair, he may see it as affection and respond in kind. This entire house is in danger... *looks up at everyone* ...Or I may just be overthinking it. He doesn't have his powers, so he...Oh...He'll probably tattle on the Creator and hopefully upset him into having a grudge.

Erik: *follows along* Not really. I’m… more confused how you all to got to roleplaying using the Castle as a setting. But as Merk tells it, he was encouraging you to be adaptive and go with the scene set up, which as far as I could tell you did. *pauses briefly, wondering if he should ask if those feelings displayed were genuine or just acting. Deciding against it, he looked through the spread of food available*
Kjaltan: *grumbles and mutters* Honestly, one can’t win with you all…
Merk: Now now, let’s not jump to conclusions. That’s more or less how we got into this mess. And this is perhaps all the more reason to actually sit down and discuss what happened and why.*looks to Wil* And again, I… I can’t help but return to how chaotic he is. If despair were his goal, he’s had opportunities to act on it. Suggest more dangerous events, encourage a death game here, and the like. To the contrary, he shows up with advice for how we might help the Creator and avert despair. *clears his throat* That’s not to say he’s blameless or is not twisted in some of his actions but…I know we keep throwing around the term complicated, but he’s that. His goals seem only known to him, and he seems to take counterintuitive action at times for what his goals appear to be.
Kjaltan:…
Merk: For now, as you say Wil, all we can do is wait for his return. As I said, this one’s not getting off the hook of explaining to Chesh why he felt the need to act.
Kjaltan: And why, exactly?
Merk: *sighs* Because at best you added fuel to his desire for despair, and at worst you actually managed to hurt his feelings. *thinks a moment* Or… whichever way round that’s supposed to go, and these may not be mutually exclusive instances. Either way, he is perhaps owed an explanation rather than being yelled at.

Show Drake: *nibbles on his pizza* Mmm...I'm not sure how it got there either. We were just roleplaying while dad played narrator, and he just decided to change the start to be at your castle. After that, it turned into an Alice in Wonderland scenario, and you were the Red Queen.
Half Wil: Admittedly, he's super hard to read. Maybe it's wishful thinking, but he enjoyed getting yelled at and only has good things in store for us? Eh... *looks at the bowl of cream* ...Hmm, if he thinks like an actual cat...Perhaps some cat toys will entice him? Or would that just be offensive...

Erik: *nods slowly* Sounds about right. And… how do you feel that it went? Because I know that the goal was to provide you with more stage experience.
Merk: *chuckles awkwardly* Well, there’s always a chance, however small. *sighs* But… to be realistic, bearing in mind what you said, it seems like being yelled at either brought him joy or pain, and regardless of which he may stir up chaos because of it. Which is why I feel we should talk to him.
Kjaltan:….
Merk: *chuckles* Maybe. Maybe not. All I know is that it was said that he likes cream, hence attempting to use it as a summoning agent. This was when he was attempting to annoy Sirius, and I elected to keep that information in mind. I know not whether cat toys will have any impact, good or bad. But… the fact we can bond with him makes me think there’s more to him than just chaos and mayhem, with the occasional act of assistance. There might be room for improvement.
Kjaltan: Tch, you’re sometimes too optimistic…. but I do acknowledge my words may have had an impact. *looks to think* Though he may appear to revel in tormenting others and hearing their response, there is at least one conversation that seemed to crack his facade.

Show Drake: ...Oh, uh, I think it went pretty ok. Heh, I guess it might've been...K-kinda fun? *blushes* I wouldn't mind doing it again sometime soon.
Half Wil: *looks at Merk weirdly* ..."Summoning agent." Sure, that's...A name for leaving out treats for a cat. Well while we await our eldritch creature of feline make, I'm going to sup on refreshments of roast meats and carbonated drink. *walks off to get more food to eat*

Erik: *smiles and nods* That’s good. I know you’ll only continue to get more experience and improve further if you do. And if there’s anything Merk, I or Sirius can do to assist, please let us know, alright?
Merk: *snickers* Well, Chesh isn’t an ordinary cat. I’m not sure his eldritch, but…he’s reasonably above demons and demigods I suppose. *nods as Wil leaves*… If nothing else, maybe it will go some ways towards showing we want him here.
Kjaltan:…
Merk: *prepares to join the others* Still, it does seem like you’ve had a small revelation as well.
Kjaltan: Ngh… perhaps. He may not be as resilient to complaints and criticisms as I thought. Although what I’ve thought of just indicates he doesn’t appreciate poor comparisons.
Merk: *nods* It’s a start. With that in mind, I’d like to see what happens when they get to know you and your reasons.
*He glances over to where Sirius is, who seems to have jovially taken to hosting a gluttonous gathering of several of his siblings and cousins. The two dungeon party members, Urstaerok and Fauxu, who’d abstained from much of the expansiveness were now steadily filling out from the feast’s food. Even Rufus and Pawan and some with links to them were dragged into the festivities. And many overheard the wolf was eager to go out and explore more, and he intended to show off just what everyone could do.*
Merk: I’d even say the same for him, though he’s made his reasons apparent. It looks like he’s accepted and prepared to take a similar approach to conflict resolution.
Kjaltan: *sighs*…I suppose I’m willing to see what talking achieves. *notices Merk staring at him and grumbles* Without yelling at them.
Merk: *giggles* If you feel it will get through to them, you can. But don’t insult them. And don’t use that as the first option; it may make them become more defensive about their position. *looks around* Now then, I think we’ve delayed joining the feast long enough.

Show Drake: Erm, I'll uh...I'll keep that in mind. *nibbles on his pizza* ...So you really don't mind the whole flirting thing?
*While everyone enjoys dinner and fills up on food, most glutting themselves to the point of flab visibly growing on them, the Creator's children were making themselves at home with the wide spread of choices the chefs had laid out for everyone. It wasn't until later when the bowl of cream was visibly emptier than when last set out, if anyone had been paying attention.*

Erik: *chuckles* Not really, no. Did you want to continue?
*For the most part, the festivities continued as they did any other night. Although, the mood was definitely improved, with some of the more serious residents of the house, with some of them eagerly talking about what the next day would bring.*
Altrios: So, you think Light Elly could do with a “materials excursion”?
Sirius: If that’s her choice of activities, sure. But I do want to ask dad how his trip to Akiba went. I’d heard the stories, but I swear he came back fuller than when he left, and he left with Lit Luke right?
Urstaerok: I admit to being curious of Merc Akira’s story as well. We helped his siblings, and placed him on the front lines of battle but… has he really spoken to us about his goals?
*As the conversation went on, Merk was happily picking out food for himself and Kanjin, eagerly eating with the other dragon. A glance at the bowl brought a smile to the shadow dragon as the idea was bearing fruit it seemed.*

Show Drake: *blushes harder* OH NO HAHAHAHA, TH-THAT WOULD BE A BIT MUCH!
Tech Drake: You don't even realize you're yelling.
Light Elly: *is already asleep in front of an empty parfait glass* zzZZzz...
*It didn't look like there's anything else happening tonight. While the bowl of cream was drunk from, nothing else seems to happen.*
Half Wil: *yawn* Well, I think...I'm going to bed.
Merc Akira: Mmm, night guys. *heads into the house*
Tech Lyle: Heheheheh. I can smell trouble tomorrow. *shrug* Or maybe it's just me.

Erik: *chuckles warmly, leaning in closer, coming close to resting his bulk on Show Drake. Though he appeared to mostly try and gauge his reaction* Hehe, well alright. Do let me know if you’d like to practice, of course~
*Gradually as the night wore on, those gathered began to disperse as well. Sirius, now with an engorged belly to fill out his flabby form sluggishly made his way back to the house with those he dined with, appearing drowsy as he was ready for bed. A satisfied Merk kept one eye on the bowl of cream while also overhearing Tech Lyle’s prediction. He mostly shrugged it off, each day in the world seeming to bring its own trials and challenges. And for the moment, he was set on his solution, which involved a presently huffing and puffing stuffed dragon whom he was supporting as they lumbered away from the feast while it wound down*

*It was as night fell and the moon rose high when bedtime was very apparent. That is, if there was anyone who hasn't gone to sleep off a food coma earlier. The house suddenly rattles and shakes as something like an army was approaching outside.*
Merc Akira: W-wha? What's going on?
Shadow Lyle: Grrr...I need my beauty sleep.
Show Drake: *rubs his eyes as he looks out his room* Hey, what's going on, you guys? No parties after midnight...
Tech Elly: Um, you guys should look outside. We have Shadows.

*Needless to say, the shaking had woken up most everyone from their slumber.*
Rufus: *grumbles, still nursing an overstuffed belly from dinner earlier* Don’t look at us. Is anyone even still conscious to party?
Altrios: Yeah, no. Pretty sure most everyone needed to be carried or rolled out of the courtyard once they fell into a food coma.
*Then came Tech Elly’s observation, causing a small amount of alarm to go through the waking members.*
Urstaerok: *growls* What?!
*Some went to the windows to observe, others went to the doors to listen. After a bit of effort, Erikon worked his way out of his room once more to join those who were listening.*

*A look out the window showed a large mass of black figures making their way towards them. What's more alarming, though, is the weird tinge outside the windows. It looked like...*
Tech Drake: I wonder why dad is using the Dark Hour again.
*The sound grew louder as the Shadows drew closer and closer.*

Erik: *grimaces* I…. can think of a few reasons. I hope that I’m wrong.
Altrios: Well this is ah… not serious right? Like the Creator’s going to come up and talk, yeah?
Erik: … Hope for the best, plan for the worst. *prepares to leave the house and fight if that’s what it came to*
Sirius: *huffs standing alongside him*
Erik: And what do you think you’re doing?
Sirius: Stopping you from being a martyr. Again. This time in front of everyone.
Erik:… Point taken. Let’s see if we can spy the Creator, or whoever’s leading the charge. Maybe I’m expecting too much but…
Casey: *nods* I say trust your heart. It hasn’t led you astray so far.
Merk: I agree, we’ll fight if need be, but we should prioritize a dialog.
*With that, more forces gathered near the entrances, preparing to go out and meet the army head on.*

*The Shadows grew closer on the entrances, and another figure could be seen amongst them. It was a silver-furred Cheshire Cat, leading the Shadows with a stony face.*
Shadow Lyle: *holds up a glowing floating tarot card* So, what are the chances a fight breaks out?
Merc Akira: *has a hand on his face* I'd say it's pretty likely.
Tech Drake: *holds an Evoker to his temple* Elly? Thoughts?
Tech Elly: *doing the same* Unsure. If they all attack at once, we may be in trouble.
Tech Drake: But that's not how dad rolls.
Tech Elly: Agreed.

Sirius: *notices the Cheshire Cat* Is that… Chesh?
Kjaltan: *growls*
Erik: We can’t say that for certain; we know there at least two other Cheshires here, and that both of them have a connection to Chesh I believe.
Merk: I’m guessing a dialog isn’t an option, then?
Altrios: Yeeaaah judging from the expression, that isn’t the nice cat we met a couple days ago.
Tarou: *the ice wolf holds a sword at his side, ready to strike, casting a glance back at the preparing children* They would fight with us?
Vinari: *the foxdrake holds a spiked mallet* Doesn’t surprise me. They’ve stood with us against the end of the world three times, so the stories tell. *focuses his gaze outside*
Tarou: A fair point. *resumes looking outside as well*
*For better or worse, a large contingent of sizeable warriors were now positioned near the entrances, ready to fight.*
Erik: *thinks on what Drake and Elly noted* Let’s see if we can judge the flow of the battle. Everyone heading outside at once may be unwise.

*The Shadows all stop a short distance in front of the house's entrances. The silver-furred cat walks forward, expression unchanging until he stood directly in front of the Shadows, and in front of Erik's friends.
Merc Akira: Wait a minute...That's dad!
Cheshire Creator: The moment man devoured the fruit of knowledge, he sealed his fate... Entrusting his future to the cards, man clings to a dim hope.
Tech Drake: Ah, looks like he's in a mood right now.
Merc Akira: *clothes transform into his Phantom Thief armor* You serious? Why's he in a mood now?
Cheshire Creator: The Arcana is the means by which all is revealed...
Tech Elly: Get ready!
Shadow Lyle: Here they come!
Cheshire Creator: The Magician. Attaining one's dream requires a stern will and unfailing determination.
*Almost like a signal, several Shadows burst into motion, rushing towards the Atherusians guarding their home. But the only ones to attack are ones that look like gloves, ones that look like tables, ones that look like wizards, and ones that look like orbs with large mouths and tongues.*
Tech Drake: They're all of the Magician Arcana.
Tech Elly: Hands and Hablerie types use physical attacks, the orbs with mouths. The Table and Magus types will throw spells.

Sirius: Wait, that’s the Creator?
Merk: *sweat drops, casting a glance to Kjaltan* Do we not know why he might be here?
Kjaltan:….
Erik: Perhaps not, though I doubt he’s going to elaborate at the moment.
*Still, with ominous statements, the battle began, with the group apparently needing to fight one specific type of Shadow*
Erik: Alright, you heard them, prepare the counter measures!
*With that several of the house’s residents burst out from the entrance. Those like Vinari and Fynocrus the orca boasted high physical defense, and hard-hitting physical attacks, while Urstaerok and Sorophel the gryphon led the charge to disable the magic users while casting spells towards the hands and orbs.*

*The battle, at first, goes pretty well. The Hands and Hableries find their palm smacks and licks don't do well against those with strong defenses, while the Tables and Magi are particularly fragile when their magic fails to keep the Atherusians away.*
Cheshire Creator: The Arcana is the means by which all is revealed. The Priestess. The silent voice within one's heart whispers the most profound wisdom.
*More Shadows jump into the fray, this time taking on the forms of floating heads with long hair wearing either large tiaras or globe-like crowns with a book, pots with some kind of slime coming out that take the form of a girl, coils of glowing scroll paper that look like carp-shaped windsocks, and women with large robes over their heads while sitting on inverse pyramids.*
Tech Drake: Detecting Tiara and Book Shadows, they throw spells along with those Idol Shadows sitting on their platforms.
Tech Elly: The Pot and Pesce Shadows are the physical fighters.
Merc Akira: Persona! *shoots lightning at the invading Shadows* We haven't even mopped up all the Magicians yet!
Shadow Lyle: Less talking, more fighting!

*For the most part, the Atherusian’s strategy remained unchanged: provide cover for the magical assault, while the hardier members could absorb the physical attacks and retaliate in turn. What did change were the members involved. To prevent fatigue and provide some first aid to those who needed it, fighters were changed out. Tysoran the titanosaurus went in for Vinari, providing magical barriers as well as a physical one using his plates. He endeavored to be effective cover while others launched their own attacks, especially once a weakness was found that could be exploited. Notably, Erik and a few of the others hung back, perhaps gauging the enemies strength before entering the fray themselves. They were relatively quick to pull out fighters if they were injured or at a disadvantage, of course.*
Erik: What’s his aim here…
Merk: I don’t know, but it seems our only option is to keep fighting.

Cheshire Creator: The Arcana is the means by which all is revealed. The Empress. Celebrate life's grandeur... Its brilliance... Its magnificence...
*Shadows that look like avians with humanoid heads, statues of a mother holding a child, a woman lounging on a love seat, and a large baby with a flower growing from its head, are the next ones to attack.*
Tech Elly: Persona! *Shoots fireballs at the attacking Shadows*
Tech Drake: The Eagles and Bambinos are physical, the Relics and Mothers are magic!
Merc Akira: The what!?
Tech Drake: The statues are Relics and the babies are Bambinos. Just whittle their numbers down!
Shadow Lyle: Dad! Explain yourself! No witty quip or monologue, or some angry outburst?
Cheshire Creator: *after a bit* The Arcana is the means by which all is revealed. The Emperor. Only courage in the face of doubt can lead one to the answer.
*Shadows that look like beetles, knights, a walking fortress, and kings jump into the fray.*
Tech Elly: The Beetles, Knights, and Castles are pure physical fighters! The King is a magic user and buffer! Get rid of them!
*Noticeably, the King is hanging back and casting buffs on the Shadows while the Knights and Castles actively protected him*

*The group continued to fight the Shadows, holding true to their tactics, tanking the physical attacks so that a retaliation could be mounted and countering the magic attacks so the casters were left open. And if anyone tired, they swapped for someone else to get their wounds treated and take a breather.*
Erik: An explanation would be appreciated, Creator! Why are you doing this?!
*Still, it appeared they weren’t going to get an answer just yet. With the latest wave of enemies the battle continued. Now, more residents from the house sprang in. A few ranged attacks came from members like Dormal the gryphon, while other more agile members came to try and move past the defensive line of Shadows and take down the King; agile being a relative term. If an opening appeared, Korigen sprang forward to strike at the King with shadowed blades.*

Cheshire Creator: The Arcana is the means by which all is revealed. The Hierophant. It is indeed a precious gift to understand the forces that guide oneself.
*The next set is made up of pairs connected by skewered spears, three large heads stacked atop each other wearing miters, wizards floating in a cube made of sheets of paper, and...Fat police officers with holes in their stomachs where a key is floating.*
Tech Drake: The Twins, Towers and Sigil Shadows are magic! The Fuzz are physical!
*Almost immediately, the police Shadows pull out guns and begin shooting at them at a distance. While the King is defeated and the enemy is no longer receiving buffs, their numbers continue to grow as the Creator sends out more waves with each Arcana.*
Merc Akira: *blocking the bullets with his sword* We're getting pinned down!
Shadow Lyle: *Is blowing poisonous wind on one side* Busy here!
Reverse Luke: Persona! *a large puppet appears that swings at the ranged Shadows* Sorry I'm late!
Tech Elly: What took you so long?
Reverse Luke: This kind of chaos is kinda normal in my home, so it took me a bit to realize I'm not in my room. What's the sitrep?
Merc Akira: Well, Stickers, dad seems to be in a mood and won't explain why he's doing this. We're just trying to survive right now.
Cheshire Creator: The Arcana is the means by which all is revealed. The Lovers. There is both joy and wonder in coming to understand one another.
*The next set had flying cupids with bows, headless dancing couples with rapiers and a large floating heart serving as their head, giant snakes, and butterflies.*
Tech Elly: Confirmed! We have Cupids with healing magic, Dancers and Snakes that use both physical and magic attacks, and Papillon that use buffs and debuffs!
*The Cupids begin shooting arrows and casting healing magic at any Shadow that is still alive, while the Dancers and Snakes cast attack magic on the group while retaliating with rapier thrusts and bites. The Papillon flutter around, causing the battlefield to grow hazy.*
Show Drake: Never used this before. *crushes a tarot card* Persona! *A masked figure appears and throws fireballs, incinerating the Papillon and neutralizing their debuff*

*The magically inclined threw up barriers to block the ranged projectiles and take some of the pressure off those with high defense, or those more aggressive and less defensive in their strategies. Beyond that, the numbers of fighters coming from the house seemed to increase to match that of the Shadows coming to fight them, with the fighters strategy remaining much the same. Even still, the sheer numbers were beginning to weigh on them as individuals were swapped with those who could perform a similar role while they could take a breather and receive healing.*
Erik: *nods* Well, I am happy we can count you amongst our allies, Reverse Luke. Likewise with you, Show Drake.
*For those Shadows that retaliated, the fighters took a more passive approach, allowing the ranged attackers on their side to cast spells and projectiles to eliminate them.*
Sirius: Is it time to take the field yet?
Erik: *thinks a moment, then nods* If he won’t answer us, and he won’t answer his children, then we’ll force an answer out of him.
*looks around, appearing to feel the confusion and growing animosity from the wounded being treated and the fighters going out.* We could try and outlast them, but… there are many reasons we should prioritize a swift end to this.
Kjaltan: Agreed.
Merk: You’ll accompany us?
Kjaltan: *nods* You’ve gone soft. *thinks a moment* And I’m tired of you all risking your lives for this… *takes a deep breath* No, I’ll reserve my judgements for the battle’s end.
Merk: *stares at him before giggling* Oh, gone soft have I? I can still fight when it counts.
*With a plan decided, the group prepared to charge out once an opening was present to widen.*

Cheshire Creator: The Arcana is the means by which all is revealed. The Chariot. One of life's greatest blessings is the freedom to pursue one's goals.
*The Chariot Shadows are made up of large lion heads on wheels, large humanoids with multiple legs affixed to wheels and lances for arms, large armored tanks, and round wooden prototype tanks.*
Tech Drake: TAKE COVER!
*These Shadows all aggressively attack the group. While their numbers are fewer, their larger size denotes their harder punches.*
Tech Elly: They're all physical fighters! Quick, get rid of them before our defenses are shredded!
*While they're busy dwindling the enemy's numbers...*
Cheshire Creator: The Arcana is the means by which all is revealed. The Justice. To find the one true path, one must seek guidance amidst uncertainty.
*The Justice Shadows look like large swords carried by a single stone arm, balancing scales, big stone golems with a scale and sword, and what look like mechas from old sci-fi shows.*
Tech Drake: The Sword, Giant, and Machine Shadows are physical, those Balance Shadows are magic!
*Again, fewer in number but harder hitters, not to mention sturdy as hell.*

*The attack of the newer, stronger shadows came a surprise to the group, the damage received was increased, but they endeavored to follow Drake’s strategy and deal with the new shadows quickly. Still, the reduction in enemy numbers seemed like a good opportunity for Erik and his group to make their move. So with the arrival of the new Shadow, and an outpouring of attacks from their allies, Erik, Sirius, Merk, Altrios, and Kjaltan charged forward towards the Creator, attempting to make use of the gaps between the Shadows do to their fewer numbers, and due to any that fell from their allies’ assault. Of course they threw in their own powerful attacks to try and thin the attackers heading for the house.*
Rufus: *recovering his health with a potion.* Haa… you think there idea will work?
Pawan: *healing another fighter recovering in the house.* Well, it is an understatement the Creator is being vague with his reasons. *sighs* And I agree. Waiting it out while he sends stronger units to fight us will worsen matters.
Rufus: Yeah… *cracks his neck as he gets back up* I’m itching for an explanation, and my mind’s trying to find one.

*It appears that the Creator is completely unfazed by Erik's party bursting forth and charging towards him.*
Cheshire Creator: The Arcana is the means by which all is revealed. The Hermit. It requires great courage to look at oneself honestly, and forge one’s own path.
*There were ravens holding lanterns in their claws, tall poltergeists with tattered capes and a lantern for a torso, what looked like floating eyes, and an elder sitting on the arch between two pillars with faces.*
Tech Elly: Magic! They're all magic!
Reverse Luke: Come, Pinocchio! *his puppet Persona proceeds to swat at several Raven Shadows*
Shadow Lyle: Pazuzu! Let thy poison blow! *his Persona shoots out waves of poisonous wind, corroding one of the giant Wheel Shadows* Haah, I'm feeling light-headed...
*Erik's party finds that several of the Hermit Shadows were targeting them specifically, likely to keep them from getting close to the Creator.*
Cheshire Creator: The Arcana is the means by which all is revealed. The Fortune. Alongside time exists fate, the bearer of cruelty.
*These Shadows were large dice, hourglasses with limbs and bladed hula hoops, and humanoid DNA strands.*
Tech Drake: Tch, the Dice, Sand and Gene Shadows use both physical and magical attacks. But they're highly unpredictable!
*As if to prove a point, one of the Dice rolls itself along the ground before floating towards the Atherusians, shaking violently before self-destructing.*

*For the most part, Erik’s party was unfazed as well, preparing to fight their way through the approaching Shadows. Kjaltan, throwing punches, sent fireballs toward the tattered capes while Altrios went forward to slash at the remaining ones to clear the path forward.*
Pawan: *huffs* Take a break if you need it Lyle. We need to take a measured approach.
Paxfried: *the green dragon snarls before breathing a torrent of noxious flames, seeming to follow up Lyle’s examples*
*The Atherusian’s did their best to avoid the new Shadow’s attacks, however the explosion did catch some of them off guard, further decreasing their collective stamina.*
Rufus: *throws an ice infused punch at one of the Shadows* Whatever they’re doing, they’d better do it quickly…..

Merc Akira: Haaaa! *swings his sword, cutting down a bunch of Shadows*
Show Drake: How long does this last, exactly!?
Tech Drake: Considering he's listing off Arcana...Oh boy.
Tech Elly: Won't be long now.
Cheshire Creator: The Arcana is the means by which all is revealed. The Strength. Only with strength can one endure suffering and torment.
*These ones look like samurai, wrestlers, lions chained to a ball and chain, and trees wearing kimono swaying in the wind.*
Tech Drake: The Musha, Gigas and Beast Shadows are physical! The Nyogo are magic!
*The samurai, wrestler and lion Shadows all lunge at Erik's party, almost exclusively. The trees too, shooting magic spells to keep them back.*
Reverse Luke: We gotta finish up here and back them up!
Cheshire Creator: The Arcana is the means by which all is revealed. The Hanged Man. In the face of disaster lies opportunity for renewal.
*These Shadows are minotaurs, cyclopses hung upside down on gigantic wheels, obese six-armed humanoids shackled to rocking horses, and what looked like plush dolls. Other than the dolls, these last Shadows were the largest.*
Tech Elly: Oh crud. The Minotaurs are physical, the Cyclops and Jotun guys are magic, and those cellphone charm rejects use barrier magic!
*They were hard hitters and sturdy, but the real headaches are the dolls casting protective buffs on their fellow Shadows.*
Tech Drake: Do not let him move onto the last Arcana!

Pawan: *gives an exasperated sigh* All I have to say is that he’d better have a good reason for this gauntlet.
*Erik’s party continued to press forward, with Merk casting barriers to nullify the new Shadows physical attacks while Sirius and Erikon lunged forward to tear through them while they were exposed. Altrios meanwhile worked to deflect the spells while Kjaltan pressed the attack. The group pressed forward, almost recklessly, perhaps hearing the Tech Group’s concern and making almost a dash to tackle the Creator. The group at the house’s attention turned to attacking the charm dolls, before switching to the others in its group, with more forces joining the fray in what appeared to be a last stand to push back the Shadows toward the Creator. And some of the ranged fighters attempted to turn their attention to assisting Erik’s group by sniping the Shadows attacking them.*

*As the Shadows dwindle in numbers, the Atherusians were gaining the upper hand. The Creator opened his mouth, ready to start talking again when he suddenly finds himself tackled to the ground by Erik's party.*
Merc Akira: Yes!
Reverse Luke: Let's clean up the rest of these guys.
Tech Elly: Shadow activity is dwindling.
Tech Drake: Okay, I think we're in the clear.

*There was a bit of relief as the children gave confirmation that the worst of the battle was seemingly over, and all that remained was clearing the rest of the units. So that’s what they worked in unison on, being far more aggressive in their own numbers, though some of the exhausted fighters remained closer to the house to provide support. Over where the Creator was positioned, Erik was quick to pin him beneath his blubber.*
Erik: You have a lot of explaining to do.
*Though he may have meant such an action to cheer the Creator up and out of whatever mood it was in, the doughy dragon could do little to hide his own displeased stance over what happened. The others in his party were ready to use their own overblown forms to pin the Creator as well if he tried anything.*
Altrios: Should we move him into the house? If he’s going to talk, his kids are pretty good at translating, apart from the fact they should be present to listen in any case.
Erik:…. *nods partially before Kjaltan cut in*
Kjaltan: Might I suggest a side entrance? *glances back* I… don’t need to explain the folly in walking him through the crowd once they’re done?
Sirius: I agree.
Merk: You know I do.
Altrios: Yep.
Erik: *looks between the group of Shadows dwindling at the combined efforts of the children and the Atherusians and back down to the Creator who sent the former, perhaps scanning his face for any emotion. Even if he found it, he… looked to question the idea of parading the Creator before a host of scornful glares and confused glances.*

*As the remaining Shadows are cleared out, it seemed like peace was finally returning to the House. It wasn't until the last Shadow was gone when the Dark Hour was dispelled, the world returning to its more natural tones.*
Cheshire Creator: *Does not respond to Erik, just staring straight ahead silently* ... *Although after a minute of being pinned by blubber, a noticeable blush was creeping up his face*
Shadow Lyle: Haaaah...Is it over?
Merc Akira: I don't see any Shadows, and we're not in the Dark Hour anymore.
Tech Drake: Welp, goodnight fellas.
Reverse Luke: *rubs his face* This was...Eventful.

*After a moment of silently staring at the Creator, still fairly annoyed and miffed, Erik nodded, moving off the Creator and picking him up, still watching for movement or any attempts to break free and flee..*
Erik:… We can meet in the study. *glances to Altrios* Will you go and gather any of the children that are still awake? If Reverse Luke is available, he might be especially helpful.
Altrios: Got it. *leaves to head back toward the house and the children, trying to catch some of them before they went to bed.*
Erik: *takes a moment to scan their route back to the house* I do appreciate you two arguing on his behalf, though I gather you both have been through a great deal of mental distress.
Kjaltan: *scoffs* Please, before tonight I would’ve said he needed to feel the full fury that results from his actions. And I… might’ve yelled at you because you’d likely have arrived at this conclusion on your own.
Erik: *nods* That I agree with. However, I want answers and…*sighs* I will try to reserve judgement until I hear them.
*With that the group attempts to make their way back to the house with the Creator in tow, taking care to avoid the residents cleaning up in the aftermath of the battle, and enter halls through a side entrance. Although, in spite of Erik’s word, he was clearly shaken and upset; whatever the reason, this was an attack on all of their lives.*

*Later on, a wave of exhaustion seemed to wash over the house. It might've been because they were all calming down after such a hectic fight and adrenaline was abating with it. Regardless, the Creator's children who took part in the fight did hear about taking in the Creator for questioning and resolves to stay awake for a while longer.*
Show Drake: *sighs and rubs his eyes* So we're gonna hear dad's explanation for all this? Alright.
Tech Drake: Meh, I'm kinda curious about it.
Tech Elly: Ditto.
Shadow Lyle: Nngh, it had better be worth my beauty sleep.
Merc Akira: Still, though, dad was definitely in a mood. What could've put him into such a state? And wouldn't the others be around him to keep him calm?
Reverse Luke: If you mean Jun and the others, it's possible they were sent out on errands to other parts of the world and are none the wiser.

*With the battle concluded, and the injuries treated, most returned to their rooms to rest off their fatigue. At the very least, it made it easier for the group to move through the house unnoticed.*
Altrios: *nods as he gathered up the Creator’s children.* Hopefully. He was pretty silent when we took him down. Not sure Erik’s going to let this go without an explanation of some kind though. *looks to think* I’m inclined to agree with Luke, not knowing much about his Vassal’s deployment and all. *shrugs* Still, I think we all want answers, so let’s hope the Creator will oblige us. *begins heading to the study where the others were*

*The Fused World Inhabitants follow Altrios all the way to Erik's study, a few whispers and mutters about the Creator being heard along the way. For the most part, though, the Creator was pretty passive as he's brought there after the battle. Whether his unresponsiveness is considered a good thing or a bad thing, though, is debatable.*

*Before long, everyone was gathered in the study, though it was unknown whether they would be able to get any answers out of the Creator.*
Altrios:…So how do we get him to talk?… Y’know about why he’s spouting all that trivia about Arcanas?
Erik: *huffs exasperatedly* I would appreciate an explanation, Creator. Because at the moment, I have to figure how to convince, oh I don’t know, seventy to eighty percent of us to want to stay here, now that there’s apparently a chance someone we thought was our ally will bring all manner of Shadows to try and kill us.
Merk: Eheh, remember to breathe, alright? You’re tired and on edge.
Erik: Really, is it that obvious? I just got done being apologized to for an outburst brought on by excessive wariness, and a couple hours later, I’m fighting you and an entire army, hoping the two events are disconnected. *grumbles* Absent that, I’m trying to not come up with any other explanations myself, because I’d rather not wind myself up further.
Kjaltan:….
Merk: Ehem, Creator, would you please explain why you came to the house tonight with an army of Shadows?

Cheshire Creator: ...
Reverse Luke: ...Come on, Uncle Crey. We just wanna hear your side of the story.
Tech Drake: ...He's tensing up. He's likely considering it.
Cheshire Creator: ...Because...
*The Fused World Inhabitants leaned a bit closer to hear better.*
Cheshire Creator: ...Because I'm an untrustworthy psychopath who keeps laughing at your expense.
Tech Drake: *deep breath* Of course it was getting to him.
Merc Akira: Erm...What?
Tech Elly: He's talking about the whispers he hears from the house's residents.
Cheshire Creator: It's only natural that I come for your lives at some point. I've been laughing behind your backs the entire time, hatching schemes to humiliate you all.
Show Drake: *rubs his face again* Dad...Have you tried just talking it out with Erik's friends?
Cheshire Creator: Why bother? I'm probably just lying to get your guards down anyway.
Merc Akira: Dad...

*When the reason came, it was surprising to Erik and his allies. The dragon in question looked down for a moment, perhaps regretting he’d let his imagination have a say, but also glad he didn’t give it too much of a voice for the moment.*
Altrios: So… he was essentially blaming himself? Changing to fit the narrative about him?
Erik: It… certainly sounds like it.
Altrios: Ah, ‘cause… yeah I don’t know how to put it any way other than blunt: he’s not a psychopath.
Kjaltan:… *takes a deep breath as he looks to think about whether he should speak*
Merk: *chuckles slightly, nudging Kanjin forward* You should listen to your children, Creator. These two did, and it did wonders for their demeanors.
Kjaltan:… If I may, I wouldn’t place the source of the whispers on everyone here. Even those close to Sirius and I were more concerned about us and hopefully only saw that we were withholding our troubles from them. *clears his throat* I mean, we have specific events we could talk about but… for the moment, I’ll say the general view of you is more that you’re eccentric and mercurial, but not psychopathic. I… wished to speak with Chesh about a similar topic, and if you see him, could you pass on that? I have the feeling our earlier argument may be what’s on your mind, so I’ll say what I have to say regarding that: I… care for this family. They welcomed me in, and through a rocky courtship, I came to become a father to them. So if I react defensively, it’s because I don’t wish for them to come under threat, especially for someone’s grudge or amusement. And… we can discuss the examples of this further at a later point if you’d like but… there is a reason I didn’t simply blurt out why I yelled at Erikon and Chesh in the courtyard earlier; about the duel you and Erik had.
Erik: Ah yes, I had initially presumed the secret was out, after catching a glimpse of Merk and Reverse Luke pressuring you for an explanation. To my surprise, everyone was fairly calm when I’d come out from the study to enjoy dinner. A bit suspicious maybe, but far from Casey asking me what the hell was I thinking. *sweat drops*… You knew the chaos it would cause, and held off from saying what had happened, didn’t you?
Kjaltan: *nods* Thank your forebearer for catching on and asking that we move to a less public space for me to explain.
Merk: Eheh, well I shared in your worries, so I took what seemed to be the wiser course of action.
Sirius: *nods before speaking up* I uh… I agree with Kjaltan about speaking with you on past events. At a later point, given that it might not be fair to do it now with how you’re feeling. But… well you have an idea of how nervous and watchful I’ve been. And… I had considered leaving because I was worried I might do something foolish, and I’d come close to arguing with Lit Akira earlier over what ultimately was nothing significant. But… Half Wil and Altrios listened to my worries and suggested strategies I might consider. In the end, I shouldn’t suffer in silence if an issue is annoying or worrying me. *catches a glance from Altrios* But I shouldn’t yell about it, just gather more information.
Altrios: *snickers lightly* I do seem to recall Wil’s views on your maliciousness and cunning and ability to scheme, but I’ll hold off on sharing as well.
Erik: Hm… well, those are the opinions of two who may have been your greatest detractors here, and they wish to talk further about what happened, not lecture you on how “unworthy” you are. *thinks a moment* Personally, I’m in the eccentric camp as well. You do a lot, and what happens day to day can vary widely but…how do I put this… what you do sometimes can be or is misinterpreted, as can be seen here, but others it’s harder to point to as something you can laugh at behind our backs. This is akin to why I wish to bond with Chesh; because for all he’s done that could be viewed as a threat on our lives or a joke at our expense, and for all his apparent love of despair, he has helped us on several occasions, in particular with understanding what is going on with you at a given moment. And that help is counterintuitive to his goals, so I’m curious to learn more about him. But… we’ve been going on for several minutes. Would you like to talk about what has happened more?

*After all this talk and explanations and opening up, the Creator quietly listens to them...Then proceeds to scoff.*
Cheshire Creator: I have no reason to speak with any of you oh so high and mighty guests. I'm just a dangerous backstabber.
Tech Drake: He's not responsive to a heart-to-heart right now.
Tech Elly: *yawn* Sleepy...
Reverse Luke: *squeezes his nose bridge* ...Hmm. Would you like to stick around for breakfast tomorrow?
Cheshire Creator: ... *eyes shift to the side* Maybe...

*At the very least, the assembled group were happy the Creator appeared to listen to what they had to say, though his mood was apparently still the same*
Kjaltan: Hm…
Merk: It does seem that we’re at impasse for the moment.
Altrios: Reverse Luke probably has the right idea. We should probably try to continue in the morning.
Erik: Right… well… if you’d like, we do have guest rooms available here-
Merk: Or, you can bunk with Erik if you’d like? *snickers, seeing Erik look over to him* Oh come on, you saw him blushing when you were laying on him.
Kjaltan: I uh… suppose he could bunk with us as well? *looks to Merk, who nodded*
Sirius: I don’t mind volunteering as well.
Erik: Well… the choice is yours Creator. I do respect if you’d like a bit of privacy should stay here.

*The Creator was mostly stone-faced, though when Kjaltan and Sirius volunteered, he took a deep breath.*
Cheshire Creator: The moment man devoured the fruit of knowledge-
Reverse Luke: *immediately plants his paw onto the Creator's mouth* Yeah, I think that's gonna be a big "No" for bunking with you two.
Show Drake: Wait, I'm missing some context. Why are we stopping his monologue?
Tech Drake: Right, you're a part of the Midnight Channel investigation team, and not the Tartarus exploration team. Well, after the Hanged Man is the 13th Arcana, Death.
Tech Elly: We'd prefer he not get to that. That's all you need to know.
Merc Akira: ...Uh, then maybe he should bunk with someone after all, to keep an eye on him?

Sirius: …*flattens his ears* Well, sorry I offered.
Altrios: Eh, don’t take it too personally. You two can flatten him once he’s in a better mood.
Sirius: He was about to summon Death Shadows!
Altrios: Yeah, sure. Sit on him and fuss at him, in the morning.
Erik: *facepalms* He can bunk with me. *looks among the children* Unless anyone else would like to keep an eye on him? *looks around, seeing if anyone else was going to speak up, or whether the conversation was done for the evening*

Tech Drake: Yeah, that's a no for us.
Shadow Lyle: *yawn* Your problem. *leaves*
Merc Akira: ...Eeeh...I dunno if I can actually watch him.
Show Drake: ...Uh, no. Sorry...
Reverse Luke: *sigh* Well, Uncle Crey. It seems you'll be temporarily rooming with Erik tonight. I'll be going to mine now.
*It looked like it's been decided. The kids all retreat to their rooms, ready to sleep. The Creator, meanwhile, just stares at Erik blankly.*

*With the bedding arrangements decided, the others elected to leave as well. Sirius was miffed, though understanding, Merk and Kjaltan left for their room, as did Altrios. Left the Creator, Erikon simply nodded and proceeded to lead the way to his room, hoping by this point, most everyone was fast asleep.*
Erik: Well... all things considered, I hope you find your stay here restful. *appears to try and make small conversation while he lumbered along, giving him some excuse to keep an eye on the Creator, hoping he'd follow of his own accord.*

Cheshire Creator: Probably not. Maybe I'll just slit your throat while your back is turned, seems pretty likely.
*Despite whatever threats he spat out, the Creator quietly followed behind Erik, almost obediently in a sense.*

*Erik looked down, perhaps concerned about the Creator. However, he decided to still trust the Creator.* Well, I’ll just have to ensure that doesn’t happen. *It was an ominous threat to fit the mood, though it seemed to lack any emotion other than fatigue. Still, the halls were quiet in the wake of the attack, save for the snoring of exhausted fighters. For the night, at least, any whispers were silenced, replaced with a desire to rest. Before long, the dragon lifted his head.*
Erik: We’re here. *opens the door to his room, gesturing for the Creator to come inside* Err, I hope you don’t mind the decor. It’s another of Chesh’s counterintuitive actions; a gift that has brought some added joy to this section of the house. I have not seen fit to change it, though ah… for personal reasons, I prefer other spaces for contemplating my thoughts.
*Sure, there were many interpretations for what Chesh and Monohebi had done. However, it was a gift, and it did give him enjoyment, in addition to ideas that never panned out wider use. For the tense moment at paw, he preferred to leave it at that*

Cheshire Creator: ...Hmph. *crawls onto bed and scooches over to one corner, almost curling around himself.*
*It did seem like the Creator has calmed down considerably. Though he's unresponsive, he's at least no longer willing to bring harm to anyone. He was currently just facing the wall with his tail curled around himself, at the far edge of the bed taking as little space as he could.*

(end chapter on next post?)

*Erikon looked at the Creator for a long moment, perhaps considering what his next course of action, and whether his idea was wise. Exhaling he flopped on the bed as well, smothering the Creator in his blubber. Although, grabbing the butter hose, he seemed to have the intent of taking it further.*
Erik: Y’know, I try not to indulge myself to this extent. I like leaving my room in the morning… *has a wry grin on his snout.* But something tells me you’d like an excessively weighted blanket.
*With that, he popped the hose in his maw and began to gulp the contents from the hose. Before long, he began to bloat and swell and fill more of the space, further swaddling the Creator in a blanket of blubber. A rumbling chuckle caused a wobble to ripple throughout his form*
Erik: Hehe, sleep well Creator… *heaves a sigh as he begins to dose off…*