Lurking in the Dark [IC]

[Strawberry275]

[[Midday, Gothenburgh, Evergreen Festival]]
[Interactions: Corinne @Lannister, Anna @FrostedCamel]
​

Taking his eyes off the crowd for a short while Elias watched the drizzle pouring from the overcast sky. It didn't seem like the rain was going to let off any time soon. Judging by the number of umbrellas and raincoats spread through the crowd this was a pretty typical occurrence since everyone was so well prepared. There had to be a stall around here somewhere he could buy an umbrella, right? As he lowered his gaze once more he was surprised to see Corinne walking towards him.

"Hello. Ah, thank you," He added, gratefully ducking under her umbrella. Still, he tried to keep some distance between them anyway to avoid getting her wet as well. "I'm sure Gabriel's..." ...flirting with every women he sees. "...very busy." Corinne had been partnered with him long enough to know exactly what he was like, so Elias's half-hearted attempt to defend his friend was just a formality. Besides, Gabriel would get serious if there was any real trouble. Right?

"..."

Being alone with Corinne like this was...well, just a little awkward. Not that Elias disliked her at all; he respected her and she was always kind to him, even if that kindness tended to manifest in the form of concerned lectures about his mental health. It was just that smalltalk had never been a skill of Elias's and usually Gabriel or someone else was around to take control of the atmosphere.

"The festival's even busier than usual this year, huh?"

As he spoke his gaze panned the crowd (after all, he was still technically supposed to be working) only to land on a familiar face stumbling towards them.

"Anna! Are you okay? What happened?"

Elias rushed towards her, abandoning the cover of the umbrella. As far as he knew she was supposed to be off duty, so for her to appear in pain and almost in tears like this something bad had definitely happened. He gently took one of her arms so she could lean against him for support if she needed it, glancing behind her in case whoever had done this was still coming after her. "We should find you somewhere to rest..."​

 

[DoomyCakez]

Location
"The outside looking in, as usual."
Gothenburgh || Evergreen Festival || Festival Outskirts

Time
"A little early in the day for rain, don't you think?"
Midday || Cloudy with mild showers

OOTD
[spoili]

[/spoili]

Mentions
"too crowded."
|| Granny- @Strawberry275 ||
||Festival NPCs ||
|| Andrew and Alice - @Ythania ||
|| Horny Little Monster named Chunky Martin - NPC ||

Interations
"..."
N/A

The Evergreen Spring Festival. It was always a joyous occassion, with mortal and monster alike running from stall to stall to pay for overpriced goodies from people acting like they actually cared about who you are. It was a time that the lines of monster and humans were slightly blurred though...or at least that is what many would have you believe. The festival was crawling with the MMW, as though they were ensuring that the moment anything funny went down... The moment a monster popped a balloon or accidentally left without paying for an apple, he would be taken down, locked up, and dragged to that Fire pit of a place they called a facility. It was an utter fascade, those happy faces of humans and monster, who were secretly walking on the tips of their toes, as though they were simply waiting for someone to fuck up, or to stand out too much. Where this should be a time of happiness and peace, it was simply a time of held tongues, hidden predujice, and simply acting like the differences did not matter. They did matter... They mattered quite a lot actually, for many would notice that it was only the most "Human" looking of the monsters that would attend this festival. What of the ones with a cheap glamour, or a deformity that simply could not be hidden. Oh no, the spikey and freakish breathren could only hide with the Carnies, but what was so swell about that? They would only suffer from laughs and screams of horror. That was all the Carnival seemed to be good for nowadays, a cheap gag as an outlet for people's judgemental stares... At least they were the more peaceful of the bunch. They knew how to live in peace with the mortal neighbors...or at least pretend that they could. It was a sad thing sometimes, but the worry and hidden agenda hung over the festival like some sort of smog could.... Beijing 2.0, Racist addition.

But the festival did have its positives. It allowed monsters a bit of freedome to stretch their wings and show their fangs, being that the crowds were usually so large that hardly anyone would notice or care. As long as they stayed in line and did not cause a huge scene, everyone would be alright. Yet, the scum of the earth...the hidden villans still made themselves known. It could be felt, that small bend in the festivities, as though a small little dark blimp was pushing up from one of the unknown sectors and alleyways. It was the simple dumping of a body, yet where many would believe that one would not be seen, there was always eyes watching.

It was Cergio's job to watch, and honestly there was hardly anyone better at it, with eyes as keen as his own, hearing so sharp, as well as the perks of being able to hide in basically broad daylight without anyone knowing you were there. It was a nice little skill to have, and something that Cergio finding himself using often in order to get anything juicy to sell. Today's little catch was not really useful information, but it was nice to at least see who would be the resent addition to the Skull and Bones club. Who were the culprits? None other than the deadly sibling duo of Alice and Andrew, though many would not know of them if you saw their faces. Cergio knew. It was his job to know, as well as the fact that everyone in low places knew of eachother.

Andrew and Alice rather unceremoniously left the body to steep in a nearby barrel. Poor Barrel, for it was a rather nice one, only lightly glistening with the rain of the day. It could have many a fish monger happy, or maybe been a new addition to a playground. Instead, it was simply a blood and gore filled garbage can. It was no matter though, for little Chunk Martin was coming to relieve its grievances. He hobbled his stout, spike covered way out of the darkness of the alleyway, away from the direct starts and glares of the sensitive public eye, to grab the barrel and drag it back down into its hobbled little pit of who knows were. Cleaning up was always the hard part, for even Cergio was not exactly sure what he did. Maybe cut him up and serve him to the more... picky monster public. Dump him in the river with cinderblocks? possibly. The choices were endless and Cergio did not really care enough to find out, watching as Chunky Martin disappeared into the darkness before sprouting from it himself.

It was like watching an octopus come to life from a piece of coral, how the shadows, colors and alley ways, textures suddenly disappeared from him, revealing a massive form, nearly seven feet in height. 205cm to be exact, yet was as silent as a droplet of rain upon concrete ground. He only stood silently for a moment, large, hooded head turning to look at he small blood trail, which was already being washed away by the falling rain. Rain, that was ususally his worst enemy here, being that it would always run a good scene. He could have taken another photo to add a bit more drama to the whole scene; however, his camera battery was already low, and he had more to do than just sit around taking pictures of Chunky Martin doing a day's work.

Cergio was frowning. He was always frowning, for it seemed that a smile whad not graced that stoic expression in years. His dark eyes were hidden by an over prominent brow, giving him a slightly...feline appearance; however, it was not unattractive. If anything, it simply added to the...intimidation that he held... He could not help it. People always feared those that were different, and he was different than most. Not really compared to monsters, for compared to some he was as normal as they came; however, there were certain things that just stood out. He was pretty scarred, one visible on his top lip even now, jutting up and disappearing under the crooked hook nose he had. Another was on his furrowed brow, which cut around it and drew a small little crevice up his wrinkled forehead. Those were only the little ones though, for Cergio was covered in them...

He took a few steps forward, massive form making it to the place the barrel had been in a few strides to stare down at the dark patch disapating by the water around it. His lip curled up a bit, revealing the gleam of rows of sharp fangs. Another thing that could not be hidden. All monsters had something that would not go away, even with your glamour. Cergio's were not bad by any means, but they still did cause a bit of a ruckus with the more sensitive of people... Was that why he was not a the Festival right now?

Quite the contrary actually. Cergio was not at the festival now due to distraction. It was times like these that the dirtiest things went down, and it was only natural for Cergio to try and get a few bucks. It was always nice to have extra cash on him, if only to get Granny the things that she wanted. The elder human had been on his mind quite a bit altely, maybe due to the fact that he had not seen her in nearly a week. That was how it usually was though. He dropped in to see her when he felt like it, usually offering groceries, a new plant, some seeds, or simply his own face if he had nothing to offer. He did not like those days though, for the woman's generosity seemed to far outweigh his own. He could never forget it...as if she would ever let him, for she seemed to always be giving. Even at the mention of the Evergreen Festival last week. It was been only a passing thought in her mind, but Cergio had not forgotten. She had wanted to attend, but thought it impossible. Cergio did not really mind going in her stead, even if it was putting himself a bit on the line... Anything to pick up what she wanted. He had no list, but he knew a few things that she liked...

The large man's head shot up at the sound and shouts of the people just beyond the alleyway, their colorful umbrellas like an herd of water buffalo, their shoes stomping though the mud and city gunk to get at the many stalls that surrounded them. Cergio would have to join them, even if large crowds gave him anxiety. He did not like the feeling, even if he could see over everyone with little to no actual problem, it was just the fact that the stares he recieved did little to make him feel...welcome. The fact that the MMW was there did not help much, for he was always left looking over his shoulder and feeling as though someone would recognize him.... someone would remember him... someone would-

He blinked and shook off those thoughts, black stare falling half lidded and he pushed the demons of his mind down and rose to his full height. His hands slid into the pockets of his large, brown trenchcoat, nose scrunching up as a single droplet of water fell from his nose tip to the ground below. He must have looked sketchy, but he always did. There was little he could do about it when he was so large....so...scary, but was that not what being a monster was about? He had felt he had stopped caring about years ago, being that he was pushing his mid-60's; however, Cergio was the more sensitive sort, even if he was never one to outwardly admit it. He did not like to frighten people...

The frown on his face creased a bit, causing the frownlines on his cheeks to deepen drastically, only slightly malformed due to the scar on his cheek. He was on a mission, so there was little time to waste hanging in an alleyway. He would stay close those though...avoid the more active places of the festival to get what he thought Granny would like. Maybe something with strawberry decorations... She always liked little knick-knacks like that...

He took off, large form moving oddly silent, the heels of his black combat boots lightly sloshing a puddle, causing the brown liquid to spray against his legs until he stepped out into the light.

The stares were instantaneous, maybe because he had been too quiet... too predatorial, for a human directly beside him nearly jumped out of his skin. His reaction was followed by another to his right, and even a stall owner right in front of him. Had these people ever been taught that staring was not nice?...

"Sorry." The word came out more like a growl than anything else, Cergio turning stiffly to hide his own nerves, feeling the stares of random persons as he kept mostly to the Festival Outskirts. There would be some nice stalls around here, even though he knew the prime items could ne found moreso to the center. He could hear music playing there, picturing the lovely performance in his own mind, yet overly crowded places made him too nervous... He would just get what he needed and get the hell out before things got too bad..​

 

[Moogle-Girl]

[ Midday | Gothenburgh | Evergreen Spring Festival ]
[ Interaction: Mikaela Newton (@Strawberry275), Luca Carson (@MiNaGi) ]
​

Rekeren gave Miki's friend a small smile as the two were introduced, though he found himself a bit puzzled. Wasn't Luca a boy's name? Maybe her parents just wanted her to seem more androgynous? His questions were soon answered when Luca spoke up, and much to Rekeren's surprise, the voice he heard was unmistakably male. "Ah, I'm, uh..." He stumbled, blushing and fidgeting in his coat. Maybe he shouldn't have come up to the two at all if he was going to make a social blunder like that. "S-Sorry! Fiance, huh? That sounds, er, exciting." His face fell into an apologetic smile. Any friend of Miki's was a friend of his, and he wanted to make a good first impression. "You'll have to forgive me for not shaking your hand."

Miki's offer of one of their macarons, retroactive as it was, was very kind, but... "Ah, that's alright. I wouldn't be able to eat it even if I wanted to. Thank you, though." His smile turned wry for a moment. Normal food was indigestible to his uniquely fueled body; if he swallowed anything, it would have to come back up sooner or later. He would occasionally eat something and spit it back out just for the taste, but when he watched the comparatively emotional faces of others who'd sampled the same food, he could only assume they had stronger taste buds than him. He had even less interest in sweet foods anyway.

Grateful for the subject changing to something he knew about, Rekeren relaxed as he explained his position in the Carnival. "I have a special show after midnight. We advertise it as a sort of 'test of courage.' I use my magic to show people illusions of all sorts of frightening things. Spiders, clowns, underwater creatures, typical things like that. It's great fun." His show was one of the few times Rekeren truly felt alive. "What sorts of things do you do with the Aristocrats? I've never been able to speak with one of them."​

​

​

 

[FrostedCaramel]

The Hounds
Elias Bonner and Anna Finch
Gothenburgh
Mid-Day
Evergreen Festival

A COLLAB BETWEEN @Strawberry275 AND @FrostedCamel ​

---

Smiling as Elias approached, Anna gladly accepted his support as she continued to struggle for each breath. "Of course of course---" she said in between an agonizing breath, "---Everything's great, why wold you think something is even wrong." she said with a laugh, wincing at the pain in her chest as she did. Pausing for a moment she looked around for a bench that wasn't in use, spotting only a low wall with no body on it she lifted a finger to point it out to Elias, "That would work just fine..." she said with a forced smile.

Elias frowned at Anna's casual attempt to make light of the situation even when she was clearly hurt, but didn't see the point of getting frustrated with her for it right at that moment. Arguing wasn't the best use of their time until he found out what had happened to cause her to get hurt. Following her gaze to the wall she pointed out he nodded, then hesitated for a second. "You want me to just carry you...?" It seemed like the easiest option, and exerting herself further couldn't be good.

Wrenching herself from Elias' hold Anna spun around and faced him, "I think I'll make it on my own." she said before walking over to the wall. Taking a seat she let out a sigh of relief before start to talk, "So how's the festival been?! Having fun?" she asked, "You're on duty though aren't you...?" she said frowning. Scooching over on the wall she started to get closer and closer to Elias. With any luck he'd forget the whole in pain and crying fiasco. Moving a bit too fast toward him she tried to hide her pain with little success. 'Well there goes that plan' she thought.

Elias followed her with an exasperated sigh and sat down next to her on the wall. Reasoning with her would clearly be pointless. "I've barely seen it. Working, remember? Though weren't you and Adams supposed to have the day off...?" As she moved closer to him his cheeks reddened ever so slightly and he started to lean back, only to be distracted as she winced in pain again. "Anna, I'm serious, what happened? You're obviously hurt, and...should probably be with Adams, come to think of it. What's going on?"

Letting out a long sigh, she accepted her defeat. "Well we were, Adam's and me, enjoying the festival had a nice big bag of foo--" letting out a distressed squeak she raised her hands to her face burying herself in them, "... I left the bag..." she said quietly. Quickly taking her face out of hands she put a smile on her face and continued "Any ways Chad found us... And he was trying to start a scene, I gave in and Adams--" she poked at the pain in her chest, "--Adams stopped me from getting myself seriously injured, probably worse really." she said nonchalantly. Just the thought of Adams hitting her was practically impossible to her and yet it had happened. She blinked away the tears welling up in her eyes as she pulled her hood further over her face.

"..."

Just as he'd thought Anna was about to get serious and explain what happened instead of dodging the question, she decided to lament her lack of food instead. Still, Elias supposed it wasn't that surprising. "I'm sure he's still got it. And even if he doesn't you can get more. There's plenty of stalls around here for you to try if you want." Come to think of it, taking Anna on some kind of food tour around the festival might actually be a good idea if it'd cheer her up. Plus it was definitely better than working.

At the mention of Chad his expression instantly darkened. He should have known he'd try and cause some trouble with the mood he'd been in earlier. And yet he'd still let him wander off like that and now Anna had gotten hurt because of it. Gritting his teeth Elias pulled her against him for a hug. Even if she was crying he could at least have the decency to pretend not to notice. "Sorry, Anna. Adams was just trying to protect you..." That didn't mean he wasn't going to be mad about it though. He could have found a gentler way to restrain her. One that didn't make her cry.

Not moving a muscle as Elias pulled her in close Anna just began to cry. Her sobs muffled by Elias' shoulder, she shook for what seemed like ages to her but she knew was likely only a few minutes. Raising her arms up she wrapped her self around Elias and squeezed him tight. "I.. I needed that, thank you Elias." she said into his shoulder.

Pulling herself away from Elias she smiled, face still flushed from the recent crying. "I'll take you up on the offer for food though!" she said as she stood. Grabbing Elias' hand and not waiting for an answer she pulled him to his feet and taking off toward the stalls. "I don't have any money, Adams has it all with him.. You know how I am with food." she yelled from ahead of him, the smirk evident in her voice. Stopping in front of a grouping of stalls she picked out the one serving freshly baked breads and baked goods, "I want some of those Elias..." she said longingly as she stared at the puffed pastries in the show case.

As Anna cried into his shoulder Elias gently rubbed her back, slightly regretting his impulse to hug her considering how soaked from the rain he was. Still, at least her cloak was keeping her dry. When she eventually seemed to tire herself out he let go, dismissing her thanks with a tentative smile. "You'd do the same for me."

Judging by her instant leap to excitement about food she was definitely feeling better, or at least normal enough to keep up her usual cheery demeanor. Her and Adams would have to talk it out later but that was between them, and Elias knew better than to try and confront Chad about harassing them. He didn't resist as she pulled him up and started dragging him towards the stalls, pleased to see her enthusiastic again even if it was only about food.

"Yeah, yeah, I get it. I'll pay for it so get whatever you want," He sighed, looking over her shoulder at the case of pastries. "But please be reasonable; last time I treated you you nearly bankrupt me..."

 

[Gladis]

Gothenburg
Midday
Evergreen Festival
@Sinopa
​

Nico was excited. It was so rare for him to leave the confines of the Watchers hidden city, that the child nearly had forgotten what the world was like outside. Not that he had much of an idea what the "outside" looked like in the first place anyway. Nico had never truly been given a chance to familiarize himself with the city he lived in... so being allowed to go to an event like the Evergreen Festival... it was like a dream come true to the human child.

And it was every bit as grand as he'd imagined. Never before had he seen so many people, especially humans, in one place. They were everywhere. Wherever Nico set his dark eyes, there were people. Children, men, women and elders. People of all ages and sizes. People from all walks of life. And that was only the beginning of all the new impressions to take it. The flowers, the many different scents mingling together, the noises... wonderful as it all was, Nico couldn't help but also be somewhat intimidated.

Nico's grip of Makoto's coat tightened. He could tell that the older male was fuming, and for a good reason. No matter how much Nico loved and adored Noelani, even he understood that her tendency to get lost just about everywhere, and habit to stuff herself with whatever sweets she could get her hands on, were both serious problems. Even so, he didn't really like it when Makoto got mad like this...

A quiet squeak escaped his lips as Makoto slammed down his hand on the counter, growling something at the poor shop keeper who understandably seemed startled. From his hiding spot behind the Lieutenant, Nico peered up at the elderly man. Though elderly, he seemed kind enough. Certainly he wasn't deserving of Makoto's rage, though he tried not to blame the green haired youth too badly for it.


Nico wanted to apologize on Makoto's behalf, but before he was given the chance to he was already dragged away and they continued on to the next stall. All the while, Makoto's anger seemed to grow. A small frown settled on Nico's features as he gave the green haired young man's coat a light tug, trying to get his attention.

"M-Makoto, please calm down. It's rude to..."

It was pointless. Nico spoke too quietly for Makoto to even hear him properly, and he didn't really think it would stop him, either. Before he knew it, he'd already questioned several stalls, without really getting any useful leads. By the time Makoto finally slowed down, Nico had been struggling to keep up for a while, and was somewhat out of breath. It probably didn't help that it was raining either, though luckily Nico was wearing a raincoat. It was a gentle baby blue – and he loved it.

"…But if you see something you want, I guess let me know, I'll get it for you. This is your first festival right?"

Nico, who'd let go of Makoto at this point and was leaning on his knees as he tried to regain his breath, glanced up as he was asked a question. His expression changed into a smile.

"The crowds make me a bit nervous, but this seems to be a very wonderful even-"

Aaaaand he was already hurrying off again. It all happened in an instant. Nico was reaching for Makoto's coat, only barely brushing against it yet unable to grasp it.

"Makoto, wait!"

Out of nowhere some passerby roughly pushed him aside, causing the Nico to topple over as he fell to the murky ground. A small cry of surprise tore from his lips, tears stinging in his eyes. Even so, he could not afford to waste any time getting back up, lest he'd lose Makoto. Hurting as his ankle may, Nico scrambled back on his feet as he called out again.

"Makoto! Makoto! Wait for...me."

He was gone. The tiny dot of light green that Nico had attempt to follow, gone. For a moment, he stood paralyzed. Unable to move even as the rain continued to fall, and the never-ending sea of people moved around him like waves. Grasping hold of the hems of his sleeves, he tried his hardest to keep himself from crying. The lights, the scents, the noise, the people... it was all too much for him to take in. Too chaotic for him to handle. His heart lurched with fear, with panic. He wanted nothing rather than to get out of there, and yet everywhere he looked, there were people. People. People. People. People.


What do I do? Where do I go? What do I do?!

I just want to go home...

I'm scared...

I'm... all alone...

All... alone...

Taking a deep breath, he shook his head a few times, as though it would help him think clearer. Panicking wouldn't help, nor would just standing there like an idiot or freaking out. Finding either Makoto or Noelani was his first priority. He wouldn't give up until he did.

"I-I can do this..." He mumbled to himself as he set off in the direction he believed Makoto had been heading. "I can do this..."

 

[Wolfsin]

"Ah and one for the beautiful lady of course."

Gabriel smiled to the vendor and took one of the cotton candies, and offered the other to a prime your brunette. At this scope she appeared to roughly a B navigating her way into the C cup range, a very fine fetch indeed. "Think nothing of it, it is my pleasure to treat a lady." Gabriel cooed in his light tone as the girl flashed him a shy smile and thanked him. This was the life, or rather the part of life that Gabriel truly loved. Festivals, where all the finest of people seeking entertainment found their peace, and well..... Not so smart on his partner's part but Gabriel surely wasn't going to waste a day like this way playing street stalker and simply watching... after all there were much finer.. ways to enjoy the festival.

"if i might miss, your name? Ahh but before I forget myself.. I am Gabriel."

And with that simple transaction and what came after Gabriel obtained not only the ladies name, but a parting kiss, a phone number, and the most effective way of sneaking into the girls dorm later this night.

Gabriel continued on his way sighing out happily as he tucked both of his hands, and arms behind the back of his head. There was music now, the alluring and longing tone of the Organ, and accompying the song was a brilliant singer, one that by voice alone Gabriel recognized, and stopped a while to listen. What a glorious song to be sang here among everyone. This festival was the collaboration of humans and monsters after all, a perfect symbol to the unison of two completely different species, a union that Gabriel... loved... indulging. "Hmm I should probably get back though, before Little lady suit has a heart attack.. oh surely she is missing me by now." The joke was mostly for himself, but he spared not care into whom heard him, nor the eyes that followed him. "Damn... 15 minutes.. surely i could attain more ..rendezvous than this... perhaps she is starting to ware on me? No no.. ridiculous, there was no way Gabriel Silento.. would be tamed so easily... and with that a new fire of determination had risen within him.

"Ill just do the job I was tasked.. and while i'm at it, perhaps make a detour or two.. That should suffice hm?"

Gabriel ghostly moved through the crowds to get to the sector of the festival he'd been tasked with checking out. And check it out he surely did.

"Oh.. excuse me miss...." That was how it always started.. and some time it ended with...

"Oh Yes.. yes.. Gabriel yes!!"

Of course in such public vicinities, there are bound to be issues. "Hey.. whos back there! You can't be here!" With such issues comes the great escape.. and finally the good bye. "Call me later then?"

Red eyed devilish eyes follow her as she leaves and Gabriel smirks "Of course I will darling." A few words to leave her heart a flutter, and to mold her as a permanent concubine for to call upon. Ahh but... back to the mission right?

Finally reaching his objective Gabriel climbed to the top of one of the building over looking the city. "Just as expected.. literally nothing going on... ahh well... i gues....." Gabriel stopped short of finishing his sentence when he spotted a set of hair, so raven midnight beautiful black, he could be miles away and still recognize even the slightest cowlick in placement. His body moved him before his mind could catch up and Gabriel moved down the building, through the crowd until he stood directly behind a very very frustrated.. Noelani.

It was rare that Gabriel of all people was speechless. This was one of those rare occasions, and he watched as she struggled against the game that had clearly bested her more than a few times. Of course Noel had always been like this, stubborn to a fault and clueless.. when it came to anything fun... per say... She was the perfect example of a bird kept in a cage.... Another loss and before Noelani could spend anymore of her money Gabriel stepped forward. He didn't look to her but stand side by side, and offered his own money.

"Let me give it a try."​

 

[Strawberry275]

[[Midday, Gothenburgh, Evergreen Festival]]
[Interactions; Luca @MiNaGi, Rekeren @Moogle-Girl]
​

"Lucaaa. Don't tease Rekeren like that."

Miki pouted as he chose to introduce himself to Rekeren in one of the most shocking ways possible. Mentioning their engagement so suddenly was also bound to surprise Rekeren. She definitely couldn't blame him for the way he'd reacted. After letting out a soft sigh Miki smiled brightly at Rekeren. "Our parents arranged the engagement when we were younger. Nobody but them expects it to actually go ahead though."

There was no reason to give Rekeren all the details about it but such a brief explanation should minimise the confusion and hopefully make him feel less weird about the whole thing. Just because they were so much younger than him didn't mean they needed to mess with him like troublesome kids. Though...technically they were troublesome kids. But Miki liked Rekeren, so she definitely didn't want him to feel guilty about something like this.

Miki's face clouded with guilt as Rekeren reminded her he couldn't eat regular food. It didn't seem like he was too insulted, but she still should have been more considerate. Same with Luca trying to shake his hand. In comparison to so many monsters her and Luca had it pretty easy in terms of hiding their identities. It didn't seem fair that others like Rekeren couldn't enjoy the festival without having to worry about humans. Not wanting to dwell too much on something that made her sad Miki managed a casual smile and listened to Rekeren and Luca talk about his work.​

 

[Little Fox]

✾ Gothenburg ❁ Midday ❁ Evergreen Festival ✾
Interactions: Cergio { @DoomyCakez }

The smell of smoke hung in the air and filled her nostrils, blocking out the sweet smell of the rose bushes she was sitting next to. Her eyes stung from the sweat dripping down her face and tears rolling down her cheeks. The crackling and popping filled her ears and hide the sounds of nature that had previously lulled her to sleep at night. Red and orange. The two colors that now made up her world and destroyed it at the same time. How suddenly all of her hopes and dreams went up in literal flames. She could no longer see mother and father through the now collapsed window and the flames were now much too intense for the child to even think of peeking through the broken glass. Living on the outskirts of town near the forest had had its merits but now it wouldn't be until later that anyone ever saw the smoke billowing up from the smoldering remains of the Nutari cottage. The child didn't know how long she had sat there but eventually she stood on wobbly legs and slowly made her way down the dirt path towards town.

A child walked down the sidewalk, dressed in a pink and purple nightgown, barefoot and with long tangled hair. She had a few twigs in her hair after sleeping under a park bench and she didn't seemed to be reacting to the rain falling down, soaking her to the bone though it did wash away the soot that had been covering her face. After having made her way to town after the fire the night before, Primrose, upon having turned into her monster form at midnight, had found a park bench to sleep under. This was done with the child not fully aware of what she was doing. Now it was mid-day and she was still in a daze, wandering around the town with no clear destination. She dimly heard noises from a crowd: laughing, children shrieking with joy. There was also the smell of yummy food on the air and as her stomach rumbled, her feet made the decision for her and directed in that direction. Soon Primrose found her way to the where the sounds and smells were originating from and was faced with large crowds. The child dazedly made her way through the tall figures, some glancing down at her and frowning at the state of her appearance.

Though she didn't get too far before she felt herself bump into someone. The child staggered back some before tipping her head up. She stared at the tall man blankly, blinking a few times though her gaze still looked rather distant and she made no move to speak. Suddenly though, without warning, the blankness cleared from her expression and she burst into sobs, tears soon mixing with the raindrops falling down her cheeks. Perhaps knocking into someone had finally shaken her from the shock she had gone into. Her small shoulders shook with the force of her tears and she brought tiny fists up to rub at her eyes. In-between her hysterics, two words could faintly be heard, repeated over and over again:

"Mommy...Daddy..."

◤ Gothenburg ▾ Midday ▾ Evergreen Festival ◢
Interactions: Nico { @Gladis }

If asked what would have been on his list of things to do that day, going to the festival would not have been one of them. In retrospect, he knew he shouldn't have gone into work today. He knew today was going to be an unfortunate day when he woke up and immediately tripped over one of his shoes. Now, Wren is a very clean person where everything has its place. So he knew he had put his shoes in their cubby when he had gotten in from work the previous day. So the only other culprit was the son of the family he had been staying with since he was a child. Now, the boy had meant well and it was all a harmless prank but Wren is very particular when it comes to people touching his stuff. Which is to say, he doesn't like it at all. So, then his morning continued to get better when he went to pour his daily cup of tea and spilled the water all over himself. Right then and there he should have just called it quits and went back to bed. But he had promised to come in and cover for one of the other workers that suddenly fell ill. The walk to work went fine though he narrowly missed getting run-over by a man who seemed in a hurry to get somewhere and wasn't watching where he was going. Maybe then Wren should have realized it would be a good time to go back home. But if anything, Wren always kept his word.

Work went as usual though he was a little annoyed they only called him in for half a day since apparently they were closing early for the festival. Then, to make matters worse, a few of his co-workers had asked him if he was going to the festival and to which he had replied he had never been before. Those seven words he uttered sealed his fate and he was promptly dragged against his will to the festival. So now here he was. The group that had dragged him here had promptly abandoned him in favor of the many stalls lining the road. The place was packed uncomfortably so and now it was raining, as if the gods themselves were berating him on not going home when he had the chance. Wren sighed and glanced around, wondering if he should just make a break for it and go home. Deciding that would be a good idea, Wren struggled to make his way through the throng. However, before he could get very far, he bumped into someone which in turn caused Wren to stumble back a step. As he corrected his balance, he raised his head to tell the person to watch where they were going when he stopped short. Wait...This human looked familiar. Wasn't this the child that was around Noelani? Nico was his name, wasnt it? He assumed Noelani would let the boy come to the festival but he didn't think she would let him come alone. So why in fact, was he alone? Or looked panicked?

Wren frowned slightly. "Are...Are you okay?" That was the correct question to ask, wasn't it? Or should he have just offered help instead? Or maybe he shouldn't have said anything and just continued on his way.​

 

[RaccoonKing]

@Gladis

"That is so cute!~"

The bubbly voice of the aristocrat squealed in delight from among the large crowd. The blonde female wore a light pink trench coat that was left open to show the designer shirt under that was a bloody red. Button up except for the top few which revealed her chest and the black top she wore under. Her fitted jeans were designer, as were all of her clothing, and a faded black that met the matte heels with a slight platform. All were designs of the Faust fashion line. A black floral choker was wrapped around her neck, an oddly shaped crystal hanging from it. The only other sign of jewelry she adorned was a silver, slim watch on her right wrist. Blonde hair was short but pulled up into a high ponytail, the length causing the tips to brush against the nape of her neck while held up by the dark red ribbon. Her eyes were odd. First they seemed to be a warm brown but as once would look they would seem to shift into a vicious red with the right light. A pale red lipstick used to match her outfit. Azusena was very conscious of this.


Azusena bounced on the heels of her feet as she was perched before one of the highly decorated stalls looking at the hand crafted accessories in a range of pastel colours that were set out in neat rows. Offering a polite smile to the vendor who was half distracted by her conversation with the old lady in the next stall, Azusena carefully plucked up one of the smaller silver hair pins that had a clear crystal flower upon its end, smaller clear crystals dangling from it by small links. Giving it a small once over she smiled brightly before pulling some change from her coat pocket, handing it over to the lady. It wasn't expensive or from her usual catalogs but Azusena adored the cuteness of the piece.

Azusena also plucked a small key chain from the stall to look at. It was a small black cat that was crocheted with two sparkly gray buttons for eyes. Squishing it lightly in her grip she simply handed so more money to the elderly woman before shifting around and pushing past a few gossiping women. Normally polite, right now she had no care for manners and towards some humans that were in her way especially. Once free from the tight squash of people, she breathed deeply.

Looking at the two items with a sense of glee, Azusena dropped them into her left pocket of the coat she wore before looking around for Elizabeth. Azusena had hurried off a bit to look at the last stall but it had not been far...but with the crowds in the way it made finding her slightly harder. However once she had, Azusena was once again moving through the crowd with a quick pace and slight skip to her step. Reaching her was easier, it was the fact she then launched herself at her best friend, wrapping her arms around the other girl tightly as a large grin came upon the spider woman's lips.

"Lizzy!~"

Azusena hugged Famine tighter before releasing her, dropping her arms behind her till she could wind her fingers together behind her back, rocking on the heels of her shoes once more. "Did you find anything cute? or anything to eat?" She asked eagerly, her head tilted till blonde locks spilled across her shoulders from her ponytail. Her eyes slid over to the stall that Elizabeth was at, humming gently as she twisted around to face it and look. After a quick glance she turned back to Elizabeth, grinning widely. "Guess what, Lizzy?!" She cooed, reaching to pull the small crochet cat key ring form her pocket, handing it over to Elizabeth happily. "Isn't it just adorable?~ I even got a hair pin that looks like its made out crystals~" Which reminded her of her monster form's body. "Have you brought anything yet~"​

 

[RaccoonKing]

@Katherine Sanderson

Zachary regretted very few things within his time as the Director of the Ministry. He made tough choices and decisions that would occasional put his mind into a state of turmoil but his lack of attention to Maria and his complete focus on the paperwork that seemed to consume his desk space currently took the top of that list. A sharp sigh and fingers pressing against the point between his brows was evidence of the irritation and stress he was currently suffering. It hadn't clicked on till about an hour ago exactly who in his ministry would be here...along with Maria...

Another groan tumbled from his lips as his left hand still held the black umbrella above his head as the rain fell around him, his right hand having pulled out his phone to which he quickly unlocked by typing in the four number password. Quickly bringing up Maria's contact details he quickly began to type up a text to his sister.

'I've finished work and just arrived at the festival.
I assume Hisato is being Hisato...
Where are you guys, I'll meet with you both.
-Zach.'

Closing the app and returning to his front screen, Zachary took to once again scanning the crowds. As far as he knew, Maria had a red umbrella with her...but with the crowd itself being a mass of moving colours it wasn't going to be easy to find her. "I really should of assigned different people to this...Gabriel...really?...If it finds Maria..." He grumbled, shoving his right hand into his suit pocket with his phone, looking ahead as he began to make his way down the first row of stalls and games. However while most would turn in awe at the stalls contents or the shows going on, Zachary was completely focused on work, even now. Were the agents assigned here actually doing their jobs while this was going on?...More specifically, was Chad actually even working. "There was something to do with a game out today...wasn't there?" He didn't particularly pay attention to anything that really came from the other unless it was to do with work... "Some of these guys are infuriating..."

Coming to the end of the area he was currently in, Zachary was obviously becoming irritated behind his professional facade. His lips pursed to a thin line and his brows remained knitted behind the black frames of his glasses. However he was saved them his phone let out a small tone. A reply. Relief seemed to quell his irritation as he pulled it hurriedly from his pocket and once again unlocking the device.

'We're by the candy stalls at the moment, miraculously avoided Chad's attention, should be here for a while considering Hisato'

A short soft of relief later and a few minutes wondering around the festival for the candy stalls, Zachary came up behind Maria and settled a hand upon his shoulder gently. A smile found its way onto his features as they visibly settled into a much calmer and friendlier one. "Hello, Maria." He greeted, stepping around to stand at his side as he let his hand once again fall into his pocket. "I apologize...I would of came with you both earlier but I had to finish going over the reports from some agents..." And the exhaustion of this was clear by his subdued tone and tired glance. However it did not take away from his professional look as he adorned his usual pristine black suit and white shirt, the only colour coming from the dark navy blue tie around his neck. Even his hair, a natural white, was messily made up but still seemed to make Zachary seem quite intimidating.

After a moment or two of studying the crowds, he turned back to Maria with a smile. "Have you enjoyed the festival so far?" He asked quietly, those their proximity would make it able to be heard. It looked fun, he would admit. The lights were impressive and the general aura of the place seemed inviting and friendly. The looks on child and adults alike was one of amusement, joy, happiness or awe. He studied people's features individually before looking to notice someone slightly familiar. Jonathan Adams. First ranking agent and partnered with..Anna. A glimmer danced in his gray gaze as he turned back to Maria, looking curious but strangely calm despite the fact one of his agents was seemingly knocked over or taking a break. "I assume something has happened...or the agents have gained a habit of taking it easy on jobs..."


​

 

[Katherine Sanderson]

-​

Maria felt herself relax and her lips form a soft smile as she greeted her brother. "Well, it's not been ideal," she responded when he asked about if she's enjoyed herself. "Hisato is using my money to buy anything remotely sweet in the area, Chad was just here, picking a fight with Jonathan and Anna by the looks of it and the rain isn't helping either."

She looked up at Zach and thought about how to continue for a moment. "On the other hand, by some miracle Chad didn't notice us and you're here now so I'm considering giving this day the benifit of the doubt." She leveled a slightly mischievous look at him and smirked. "And it's not like Chad has started to slack off on the more mundane jobs just now so it really shouldn't be that surprising that he's stirring up trouble. You can feel free to punish him however you want."

She only seemed to get in this slightly playful mood around Zach and Hisato. And Gabriel since flirting with him could actually be fun even when it would never lead anywhere, she'd never tell her brother or Hisato this though.

"Are you free for the rest of the day?"

 

[RaccoonKing]

@Katherine Sanderson

Zachary rolled his eyes at the information about Hisato, though his lips were curved to a soft smile as he looked around briefly for Hisato. "Hisato will overload on sweets one day...I fear a hyperactive Hisato more than anything." He added, tone light and jovial. "It's fine though. Tell me how much he spends and I will reimburse you tomorrow morning." Zachary shrugged his shoulders lightly, shifting the umbrella above him. "Ill just give him some more if he pops up has run out. It is good for him to enjoy himself." His eyes seemed to close for a moment, visibly relaxed as he felt his tension vanish. He had been worried about Hisato and Maria, knowing they were safe relatively had a calming effect.

Maria then mentioned some of his agents and hounds and surprisingly he still remained quite calm. "Chad...Anna...Jonathan..." He parroted, repeating the names with a deliberate slowness to his words. "I see...I will talk to them if I see them around...or call them to my office tomorrow." Turning his gaze to Maria as he chuckled at his words, sending her a small grin. "Mhm...I honestly thought he would somehow get out of this. I swear there is some game out today....or something along those lines. I don't honestly tune in to his ramblings about video games." His words were grumbles towards the end, eyes closing as he shrugged slightly. "What did exactly started the trouble?"

Eventually Zachary dropped his free hand onto Maria's head, ruffling her hair softly as he looked directly at her. He felt bad. More often than not he spent all his time in his office or working and so time spent with his family had significantly decreased... "I have finished my paperwork and the reports...So I am technically free for the day. I may receive a call or two if its important though." He thought about it carefully...He had given his assistant instructions to call him if its was an emergency and that was it. "I can spend the rest of the day with you and Hisato." With that he took a cautious glance to the array of stalls, head tilted slightly as he raised a brow to some of the more brightly coloured and decorated ones. "What do you feel like doing? I'll pay."​

 

[RaccoonKing]

Collab With @Wolfsin

Noelani's frustration had escalated over the passing few rounds she had played, each one being a massive loss and another dent at her composure. She was once again going to pay for another round when she heard a familiar voice, prompting her to stray her gaze from the target and to its origin by her side... Gabriel Silento.

It did not express itself clearly by her facial features but Noelani was shocked. Her eyes widened a fraction and her grip on her bag's zip dropped lifelessly back to her side. Red orbs danced with a fusion of emotions from shock to anger to eventual joy. She had not seen Gabriel since he left the Watchers and it had caused a sense of worry over his safety since the last time she saw him. Eventually there was a small movement to her lips as they lifted to a small, gentle smile.

"Gabriel..."

Not once did Gabriel turn to look at her, his eyes were set completely ahead, focused on this game. After all it wasn't easy to beat Gabriel in carnival games, considering that most of them required an incredibly amount of accuracy, and even their little tricks wouldn't fool him. It wasn't that he was ignoring Noel, far from it. in fact Gabriel wanted nothing more than to turn and lose himself in the woman's eyes. But this was a matter of pride for him. He took the shot, and instantly landed in the farthest of the little hoops just in time to hear his name, and for shivers to run up and down his spine. Gabriel finally turned to her with his hand extended holding a bag with a gold fish in it. "For you milady." Gabriel responded softly. and smiled up at her as if nothing had ever happened between them. He knew better but this was his own way of coping with those truths.

She had in turn watched as Gabriel won the game she had spent quite a bit on trying to win with an ease she did not experience. Her lips parted for a moment as if to speak but instead she kept herself silent, gaze only moving from the hoops when the fish was held out to her in the bag. Noelani looked between the fish and Gabriel himself before cautiously taking it into her hands."...Thank you..." She watched the fish move calmly for a moment or two before looking back to Gabriel. "You...I have not seen you in a while, Gabriel." She paused, tilting her head slightly. "Are you okay?...Have you been okay?"

She hasn't changed at all. Gabriel thought to himself meeting her with a smile. "I have been alright, I am sorry I didn't tell you what I was doing. Hell I am not even sure what I was thinking anymore... trying to go to the Rats.. Like they ever would accept me.. a Halfy..." Gabriel chuckled and turned to lean against the vendors counter. "What about you, You still getting into trouble with... little Maki? Missy?" Gabriel poked her nose lightly and grinned. He wasn't the same Gabriel as before, mostly the same but there was a confidence in him now... Something surely Noelani would notice.

Noelani did not say much as he spoke, only shifting herself when she reached out to get a carrier bag from the vendor to make carrying the fish easier. Once in was inside she grabbed her bags of sweets from the floor by her feet. Once she had settled again, she nodded understandingly. "The rats are...well...a pain..." She grumbled out, in particular thinking of their leader. "It was a shock when you left but I knew you must have had a reason for it..." However it did hurt Noelani, despite her silence on the matter to others. Her attention was drawn to his finger when he poked her, causing a small frown to her lips. In return she had reached over to poke at his cheek, raising a brow before a slightly mischievous smile came to her lips. "Makoto is currently somewhere with Nico. I have escaped him to avoid getting in trouble for buying candy." Noelani was definitely quite proud of her achievement, considering Makoto found her quite easily normally. "What have you been up to, if not the rats then, Gabriel?" He was definitely different...It had just made her curious to what had happen since their parting.

There it was... the question he'd been dreading, yet he knew better than to try and lie to her of all people. Noelani.. was a derp no doubt, one of the many things Gabriel adored about her, but she was sharp... and he knew that she would see through him. But just to lax the moment in desperation he picked at her a little farther. "You plan on eating all of that candy before Maki finds you? You're gonna get a stomach ache girl... and then everyones gonna have to wait on you... and... PFFT i would pay money to see Makoto's face when he sees you all bloated up once your done here." Gabriel broke into a fit of laughter at the mere image in his head. "That is good though, it sounds like Maki hasn't changed much either... "

Noelani wasn't gonna let him get off without answering her question, Gabriel already knew that, so why was he trying? No point.

"So I am sure you are gonna hate me after this... but I guess I expect that, all things considered..." Gabriel sighed and then recounted the events that brought him to where he was now. "I left the watchers to join the rats because they seemed to advocate freedom, a bit more... when I got there I was screwed with.. played really and beaten nearly half to death.. A human found me.. took me in and gave me a place after that... " He left out the part where he was too ashamed to return to the Watchers. Surely Noelani would yell at him for that sort of thinking after all.. But how was she going to respond to what he had to say now? "So I became this girls partner... I am a hound in the MMW now Noel." Not willing to say anymore to defend himself He looked directly into her eyes, searching for that sudden and almost phantom like change of emotion... Gabriel didn't really feel shame, Hell he wasn't sure he felt anything... but in this moment he felt cornered... Noelani the one person he cared what they thought of him.

"The MMW...Hound?"

Noelani parroted his words lifelessly. In that moment she was pale, beyond her natural tone, and resembled her monstrous form more. Leaving the Watchers was one thing but the MMW was effectively betrayal of all monsters. Her eyes surely reflected the emotionless state for a second as the blue ring seemed to fade into the red pools, lips left agape as her brows furrowed. For a moment she felt dead...nothing...Then it switched.

Anger festered inside she felt the usual burn within her irises that came when her fear inducement worked, the slithers of blue burning her as they moved about her irises as if alive. Her chest heaved for a moment as she took a breath, her hands clenched into tight fists. "Gabriel...They are our enemies..." She hissed out, though her expression wasn't expressive, her body language and eyes were. "How...Why them...You should of come back to us..." Her tone however remained devoid. She was stuck between anger and shutting it off. "What would you do if one day they sent you after someone you know? Would you really let them suffer that fate, Gabriel?..." Noelani was beyond hurt.She would surely begin to suppress it until alone but for this second she couldn't help but let it slip out for a while.

Gabriel hung his head. He was listening, listening to every word. In ways.. her sadness, her pain.. it was beautiful... This was the Noelani he loved. Free. Open and ready to say how she feels, not caged in responsibility and this cold... facade. So for a while Gabriel remained silent simply hearing her emote.. for the first time in his life.... If he could he was sure he might cry. That was not the case however. Gabriel finally looked up and though his eyes didn't match the smile on his face... This was his truest state, a cold dead look to him that rivaled Noelani's own, yet smiling like a mad man. As if his body didn't know which way to go with his emotions.. if he had them.

Finally he spoke, stumbling on his words at first. "If a watcher, Rat, or otherwise comes to draw the attention of my Agent then they will have done something to stand out. We don't take killing missions for the most part Noel.... " Gabriel paused, and looked down at his fist. "Beyond that... if they ever tasked me with bringing you, Maki, nor Nico in.... I would refuse... i would sooner die... than betray you... of all people."

Noelani could feel the furious storm of emotions shake her composure but it soon settled due to force. A trembling sigh fell from her lips but she could not stop herself furiously biting into her low lip, brows furrowed. She would not tell Makoto or Nico of this yet...or ever. She did not know yet or trusted herself to make the correct decision in this state. "I...They are the Ministry..." It was a shock she doubted she would get over but she had noticed his eyes and it struck a chord. She still idly chewed her lip in thought before bringing her hand to rest against her heart. "I...am upset...but I that is natural. I cannot see you as an enemy though...MMW or not..." She paused though, letting her hand drop back to her side. "Hound or not, Gabriel, I will be here for you. I mean you do know where the Watchers city is so it wouldn't be that hard to find me..." She couldn't see Gabriel as an enemy...she didn't even dare to think of one day being forced to fight. Most of all she couldn't accept seeing that look in his gaze.

Gabriel was stunned, he stood in place and looked to his feet. Even though she was accepting him... was this.. shame? No.. maybe it was what he convinced himself to feel. Gabriel was not dumb enough to believe that he had emotions... but.. maybe with Noel? He shook the idea off again and looked directly back into her gaze. His voice was heavy when he spoke this time though... "No matter what happens.. No matter where you go.. Noel... I will find you. I will save you from all of this no matter what... I promise." He was sure she wouldn't understand, and that was okay for now... She didn't need to understand, because someday she would.

Noelani simply blinked owlishly at his promise. Both in confusion and in joy at his words. A smile seemed to appear on her lips as She spoke. "I do not know what you are planning to save me from but I hope you do...I guess?" She honestly was unsure to what he meant. She got in trouble with getting lost...but it wasn't that. Noelani seemed to drop her mask for a while as she reached out to embrace Gabriel for a moment, internally glad that she had run into him even if she would not say it directly. "But the same for you, Gabriel."

Gabriel grinned and nodded then. "Alright well do one thing for me then alright Noel?"

She simply tilted her head, raising a brow. "And that is?"

Gabriel laughed "Just stand there look pretty and close your eyes okay?"

Noelani was confused, which was obvious by her shift in posture but eventually shrugged. "Okay...." She mumbled, closing her eyes slowly cautiously as his lack of reasoning just made her confusion stronger.

Gabriel wasted no time, The hands of a thief worked their magic, and from Noel's secret stash he slipped a kit kat bar. Opening it quickly he took one end of the candy and plucked it in between Noels lips. "Alright open them" Just as he said it Gabriel placed the other end in his lips and waited.

Raising a brow at the chocolate taste, Noelani opened her eyes to find Gabriel closer, causing her to stare for a moment in shock.

Gabriel bit down at the half way mark just barely missing his lips on hers before he started chewing his end of the candy, which was just a tiny little bit more than hers. "I'm sorry Noel I'm taking that with me... You will just have to deal with half of that candy bar." Gabriel smiled at her with the candy still half hanging out of her mouth, her stunned expression.

Noelani was left in a state of shock. The proximity alone caused her to be stunned for a while as her pulse increased. Though his taking of her candy caused her to pout, brows furrowed when she finally gathered her wits from what happened. "...That was my candy, Silento..." She grumbled, folding her arms irritably. "You owe me..." A small sigh parted her lips as she reached into her bag to pull out her phone, tapping a few things before passing it over to him. "Your number. Seriously Gabriel, if you need me then this way is easier...Also I am not going to forget about you owing me."

Gabriel laughed and took her phone typing in his name... "Sexy Dark Angel Gabriel Silento" into her phone and plugging out his number. He smirked at her last comment, and handed her phone back to her. "I would expect nothing less Noel."

She looked at the name entered before huffing softly. It seemed to suit how Gabriel acted for him to put himself as that. Noelani pressed her finger against the screen to open up a text, quickly sending a random emoji before pressing the button to close off the screen before slipping it into her bag. "I think I need to find Makoto now...I will just have to suffer longer with her scolding if I'm gone much longer..." Of course it wouldn't be easy with her considerable lack of direction. "Good Luck at the MMW, Gabriel..." It was hard to say that... at least now though she knew he was safe...relatively. Noelani smiled faintly before shifting her bags. "Goodbye." Noelani, much calmer than before, slipped around her old friend and headed off in the direction she had assume she came from.

Gabriel hated to see her go, but she had one thing wrong and passing his hand on her shoulder as she moved by him he whispered it calmly. "Not goodbye Noel.."

"See you later"​

 

[Katherine Sanderson]

-​

It feels good to be able to spend time with Zach, it feels like it's been forever since they had the chance to just talk about something that isn't work. Not that she blames him for that, she understands why it has turned out this way. She just regrets that she can't simply enjoy his presence whenever she wants.

"I fear a hyperactive Hisato too," she laughs and nods at his offer of reimbursing her. She enjoys the simultaniously amused and exasperated tone of his voice as he comments on Chads irresponsibility because it's been a while since he's used that tone and she's glad he's still allowing himself to see the humor in these things. "I'm afraid I don't know what started it. I guess you'll just have to get it out of one of them. If you can even get Chad to come in tomorrow that is."

She leans into his side as he ruffles her hair. "Hmm, I don't know, I'll let you know if I think of something." Yes, this day is most definitely looking up.

 

[Gladis]

【Gothenburgh • Midday • Evergreen Festival】
Interaction: @Aka~Kitsune, @Katherine Sanderson​

"This… is getting heavy."

A heavy sigh rolled from the slender man's lips. Due to the lack of an umbrella, he was soaked to the bone, his dark brown hair sticking to his face like glue. Hanging from either of his arms were a bunch of plastic bags, all filled to the brim with...well… you guessed it: candy. Chocolates, caramels, boiled sweets, toffee, macaroons, cookies and biscuits… anything he could get his hands on.

Whereas Maria had mostly spent her time at the festival complaining about his noble quest hit up every stall selling sweets at the event and dodging colleagues, Hisato was enjoying himself immensely. It was rare for him to ever leave the facility; especially on his own whims. So his decision to tag along with Maria on her little trip to town had warranted a refreshing experience.

Hisato had just purchased a candied apple at one of the stalls, and was on his way back to Maria when he realized that she was no longer alone. A familiar face had joined her, and they seemed to be chatting cheerfully. It caused Hisato to hesitate for a moment, and he stopped a short distance away. A warm, yet somewhat sad smile painted his features. It had been a long time since he'd seen Zachary and Maria together in this kind of environment… it warmed his heart, yet at the same time the nostalgia caused him pain. It reminded him of how things had turned for the worse. And how much he missed having a proper conversation with the man that was now the minister of monster welfare.

This was not a time for remorse.

Hisato took care to remind himself of that, as he made his way towards the humans, almost skipping cheerfully.

"Maria dearest~ Do you think monsters get strokes? Because, I was thinking, perhaps it would be possible for me to eat myself to death on sugar… now wouldn't that be a wonderful way to die?" Hisato sounded only a little too cheerful as he shared the passing thought. Then he paused, his auburn gaze wandering towards Zach as his expression changed from a grin to a gentle, somewhat reserved smile.

"Hello, Zachery… it's been a while. Good to see you get away from work, if only for today…"

 

[MiNaGi]

[[ Midday, Gothenburgh, Evergreen Festival ]]
Interaction: Miki @Strawberry275 and Rekeren @Moogle-Girl

Luca averted his gaze for a moment. What indeed... It took a few seconds for him to answer the question, but when he did answer it, he was smiling effortlessly. "Well, that's the thing. I'm still too young to take any real kind of role in the family business as of yet, but we mostly have people who are owners of big firms or otherwise in leading positions. Our main agenda revolves around our individual enterprises, and I'm currently in training to take over my father's part of the firm. It's generally that sorta business that we do, honestly. Rather... human, for our kind."

Luca smiled a little, looking around at all of the impressive things at the Festival. "Sometimes, I do admire this kind of freedom. There's something quite enchanting about the whole Carnival lifestyle. I've wanted to become part of the Carnival in the past, but... I can't possibly let my family down, being the only possible heir to the family legacy. I don't have any siblings or other close family, so there's a lot of pressure there... well, it's not that I don't want to help, so that's fine."

Luca gave a soft smile as if to throw the topic out of the window. He didn't know what else to do. "Well, regardless, I'm hoping we have the chance to come see your show." He was curious about the whole nightmare thing, and wanted to get to see it for himself. He wondered what kind of show it would turn out to be. "I'll be looking forward to it."​

 

[Katherine Sanderson]

-​

It wasn't often Mio got to be more of an audience member than a preformer when it came to these sort of events. As the ringleader and head of Carnival she was consistently putting herself in the spotlight and while she did enjoy presenting everyone in her wonderful family in the appropriately grandiose way they deserved to everyone who would come to see their shows, skipping through the festival stalls fairly unnoticed by most of the people milling about was a nice change of pace.

She had already checked up on everyone in her faction, covertly of course, she didn't want to interfere in their fun. Their newest addition Mikaela seemed to have met up with a friend and Rekeren had bumped into them. She would have offered to help Kenneth with moving his organ but by the time she got to checking up on him he'd already gotten it out and started playing. Now she was browsing the stalls looking for anywhere that sold popcorn.

Her distraction had unforeseen consequenses though, namely her ending up on the ground after crashing into someone else.

Her eyes traveled upwards, taking in the guy she had practically bounced off. He was tall, or maybe he just seemed that way to her as a short person currently sitting on the ground. He had dark hair, red eyes and was admittedly handsome too which made her think of that "tall, dark and handsome" trope so many of the romance novels she had read utilised.

She quickly shook her head to rid her of those thoughts and concentrate on the moment. "Sorry, I wasn't paying attention to where I was going," she said as soon as she got her bearings, still sitting on the ground, smiling as apologetically as she could up at the tall, dark and handsome stranger.

This was how Mio Lunacanta, ringleader Conquest of Carnival met Gabriel Silento, hound of the Ministry of Monster Welfare.

 

[Moogle-Girl]

[ Midday | Gothenburgh | Evergreen Spring Festival ]
[ Interaction: Mikaela Newton (@Strawberry275), Luca Carson (@MiNaGi) ]
​

Miki being in an arranged marriage was news to Rekeren, but after pondering it for a moment he decided it wasn't all that unusual. After all, she was an Aristocrat. Maintaining good relations with other families of her status was part of the job, right? That was how it always was in the movies, anyway. Luca said he was too young to take part in the bigger picture, though, so Rekeren had to assume the same was true of Miki. The two seemed to be close in age, judging by appearance. Individual enterprises... what did that even mean? The distance between their world and Rekeren's was obvious.

"I'm glad you've found something you enjoy," he said. "Sometimes pressure from family can be far from positive." There was something bitter in his smile for a moment, like the expression had become a mask plastered on his face rather than his usual expression of calm, but then it was gone. "Thank you. It isn't often that I'm visited by someone of high status. Maybe I can tailor part of the show to you and Miki, if you're willing to share something you find frightening." He chuckled, finding the thought of changing his show even slightly to suit the pair somewhat amusing. The fear of monsters didn't give him as much energy as that of humans, but truthfully he didn't mind expending a bit of extra effort for his friends; that in itself was strange for him. A few years ago, he never would have extended such an offer unless he had something to gain from it. Joining the Carnival really had changed him for the better.​

 

[Sinopa]

Makoto Aihara, Chad Kaiser
Gothenburgh
The Evergreen Festival; Midday
Collab between @Wolfsin and @Sinopa​

"A steak sandwhich will be fine. Yeah here ya go."

Chad handed his change over to the vendor and stood offside the shop to wait for his food. He held a snuffed out half cigarette in his hand, and his other was placed in his pocket as he stared out at the crowd. Yeah, sure he didn't want to be here. but There was no choice and at least kids were having fun. He settled on a particular pair, two of them. There was a boy and a girl trying out the climbing contest, the girl was scurrying like a raccoon up the little make shift wall, and the boy was lagging behind. The contest ended in the girls obvious victory and the two kids came together laughing, but when the girl turned around... he noticed it.. just the tiniest of reptilian slits in her eyes.... and Chad's smile turned to a grim smirk right away.

From stall to stall the lime-haired boy ran, with not much luck than before. His focus remained on the task at hand, not a thought crossed his mind except to find the captain. Who knows how much trouble she's gotten herself in already! Each passing human irritated Makoto more and more, without even half of them would have made it so much easier to complete his mission...

"Oi foods done boyo!"

Tearing Chad from his attentions he turned and once again a smile placed his features as he took the little basket with his food.
"Thanks." He said quietly before starting back towards where he'd left Elias. Plopping his sandwich in his mouth he pulled out his phone and started playing a touch screen game to pass the time. Until...

The lieutenant stopped for a moment, closed his eyes, and took a deep breath.
It's not their fault. It's not their fault. He repeated in his mind to keep from striking down every one of the gnats around him. But then he remembered something and his eyes flung open as he spun around.
"No." He refused to believe it. There was absolutely no possible way the world could hate him THIS much.
"Of all the things it had to be this!" Nico was nowhere in sight. He let out a growl and stormed forward. Not only has he lost his Captain, A COMPLETELY CAPABLE ADULT, but now the boy he was looking after, who has never been around so many people at once, was missing. He told him specifically not to let go of him!
"When I find them they're both in so much trouble!!!" Makoto grumbled as he continued his search for now two people who could be absolutely anywhere in this dreaded place. His mind was somewhere else, swearing up a storm until suddenly he was on the ground.

unnnf!

Chad nearly fell on his ace, but caught his balance before as he looked to see who it was that had run into him. His sandwich was on the floor at his feet and he cursed.
"There goes seven dollars..." Turning to face the blind sandwich deflouler in his path.

It took Makoto a moment to figure out what happened, but it seemed to have brought him back. He needed to calm down before he did something he would regret later. He took another deep breath, when his temper was back in control he pulled himself to his feet.
"Sorry. I can buy you another one." He replied without looking up as he began brushing the dirt off of his uniform.

"Ehh I wouldn't worry too much its cheap anyways. You alrigh.."

Chad looked down, noting the peculiar color of the boys hair, it was like his mind went into a mental break down of numbers, faces, and an accumulation of the research he'd done. Never research on humans though... only monsters.

"Makoto, lieutenant to the Watchers I presume?" If they weren't the person there would be no reaction, and Chad would continue on his not so merry way... but Chad was seldom wrong when it came to the hunt. The question was why was such a notorious face among those here?

Makoto paused for a moment when he heard his name, rank, and faction. He looked up with confusion to see what more the world could throw at him, it must have been a contest on how much unfortunate luck could be sent his way in the least amount of time. If he believed in the gods he would be cursing them right about now.

"And you must be Chad Kaiser; a first rank agent of the Ministry. Today just refuses to go my way." He let out a sigh. This was the last thing he needed, but there was nothing he could do about it now. An agent was in his way, and he needed to get past.
"Will you be causing any trouble while you're here?" Makoto's stance was straight and his head was held high. He made sure to keep an eye on his surroundings, but his focus was on the man in front of him.

Chad smirked stepping back. "Well my luck is just grand today... Got to raise a pissing contest with my 'favorite' agent and his bitch hound... and now I get to run into one of the big wigs himself. mmm I would loveeee to put a bullet in your head right here..." Chad didn't spare telling how he felt. There was no need to wtih such a demon bowed at his feet. "I hope so.. Please.... Monster give me a reason to 'cause trouble' as you say."

Makoto stared blankly at the agent in silence. This one was definitely trouble. What would be the consequences for removing this pestilence from the face of the earth? Would it be worth it? Chad has proven himself an inconvenience to the watchers for some time. Many of his fellow watchers have lost their lives to him, a debt that needs to be paid. But the question remains, is it worth it? At least right now? This decision was a tough one.
He continued to stare, the thunder rumbled louder as he thought.

"I hate to ruin your fun, but I'd rather not. A fight with me would not be as simple as you think…" Suddenly the rain stopped, but the rumbling remained and seemed to increase. "Besides, the casualties would be massive. That's a risk I am not willing to take." Makoto's face remained blank. "But if your lust for blood is so strong, then I will not hesitate to retaliate, otherwise, this is just a waste of my time."

Chad's lower lip twitched. Yeah blood lust was a great way to describe it... a sick thrill that he felt killing those monsters that thought themselves gods among men.... He hated them... "Oh a waste of your time huh? Then move along, turn your back to me... Please! do it.. I would enjoyyyy killing you while looking in your sick eyes... but the back of your head.. it doesn't matter to me... Scum is scum, roaches are roaches... You are a particularly big roach... and im itching to squash you.. so please.. give me a reason..."

The lieutenant's eyes narrowed at Chad as he practically begged for a fight. Typical. Humans are so violent. But the man has done nothing but throw out death threats, when Makoto hasn't done anything to provoke him. The human wouldn't do anything though; the consequences were just as bad for him as it was for Makoto. Violence always caused much more trouble than needed.

"You talk too much." He sighed as he loosened up his shoulders and cracked his neck. "It's quite irritating." The attitude on this Chad...
"I'd say you're like an annoying yipping dog but personally you're far below even that." Makoto wasn't one for shit-talking, in fact he hated it, but he was so done with the day that he didn't care anymore.

Chad scoffed and then laughed. Before he stepped forward and only barely kept himself from grabbing Makoto's scruff. His eyes were slits of their former self and his nose was only inches from touching Makoto's. "yipping dog huh... well bark, bark." Chad grit his teeth facing down his opponent now, any moment ready to put the real 'dog' here down. "Give... me... the.. reason... scum.."

Makoto stood there, staring eye to eye with the man who thought himself so tall. All it would take is a flick of the wrist to grant the man's wishes, but Makoto had self-control. Unfortunately, it seemed this man did as well, or else they'd already be brawling by now. He let out another sigh, which he seemed to be doing a lot of today.

"Not today." He turned around. "Go on, try and shoot me from behind like a coward." He began to walk away, his expression remaining empty. "I have better things to do with my time right now. Until next time, human."

Chad smirked and turned his back to Makoto as he walked away. "Next time Monster."

 

[Katherine Sanderson]

-
​

Leaving Noel Gabriel's mind wasn't exactly with him. It had been a good many years now since he'd left her, and never once had he really forgotten just how ... ironically innocent the stoic leader of the Watchers could be. The rain was still coming down, though it had turned to little more than a light sprinkle now. Gabriel didn't care too much for an umbrella in such beautiful atmosphere but still he fumbled with the device, knowing he'd get a lecture if he came back to Corinne soaked, not that she wouldn't do ten times worse than that, if she really knew what he'd accomplished in his '15' minutes time away from her. In fact he was so distracted, that he nearly lost his balance, when a much smaller figure ran head long into him.

"Sss..." Gabriel hissed out of habit, before he looked down at the pretty face looking up at him. His body acted without coaxing and he extended his hand. "Ah no no, There is no need for an appology, I was at fault." He showed his half extended umbrella and passed a very 'friendly' smile her way. "Was having some difficulties as you can see haha." His laugh was a charm all its own, light and calm despite the likliness he had to a vampire.

She was also a looker though... quite the beauty. She wasn't particularly stacked, according to first survey, but her body was petite, and she surely could have been little taller than 5 ft. Truly a cute little doll. "However, maybe we could both call this water under the bridge if you'd allow me to buy you a drink..." He knew just what his proprosal inferred, and was quick to correct it. "Ah nothing alcoholic of course it would just be nice to have some company whilst I ate and drank. Would you agree?"

Mio stared at him for a moment, confused that he would want to spend more time with the girl who had just crashed into him, but she couldn't deny the logic that company made such things taste better. And she had ran into him after all. What was the harm? "Okay," she answered letting a beaming smile take over her features. She didn't think she had anywhere to be right now anyway. "Where to?"

Gabriel finally opened his umbrella and put it above both of them as he let out a contented sigh. "Well do you have a particular preference in food. I know it's of the festival variety but I would have you choose." He offered a smile to her again, his eyes shined like rubies even in the rain, all parts of him being an incredibly, devilishly handome monster. "Also before we get too far along, if I may." Gabriel gave a little half bow, nothing formal by any means but a sign of his oddly romantic form of etiquite. "Gabriel Silento, might I have you name as well?"

"Oh," she had completely forgotten to introduce herself. "I'm Mio Lunacanta." She thought about his first question. "And I prefer, um ... popcorn?" She blushed and looked down, she couldn't think of anything else at the moment, but really? Popcorn? How silly did that sound? Pretty silly she would bet. And why was she so nervous? She was the goddamn ringleader of Carnival for heaven's sake, she should be used to attention! It was a stupid question of course, she knew exactly why she was so nervous. No one usually paid attention to her for her own sake, it was usually for her family and their amazing performances and that was just that way she liked it.

Admittedly 'popcorn' was the last thing he expected to hear for what this girl would want to eat. Was she being modest perhaps? Nevertheless he wouldn't question it. "Mio hmmm and what a beautiful last name really. Do you know the origin of such a name?" It was really about invoking questions now on their way. She was certainly interesting after all. Pink hair, mmm cat like eyes... no doubt a monster same as himself, though listening to Corinne talk to the Director once, the description seemed vaguely familiar. Ah well.

"Well if it is popcorn you want, then it is popcorn you shall have. I will find the largest bag of popcorn, in this whole shebang I swear it!" His declaration of war was silly. He even grinned over at her with his final sentence, but thus was the charm of Gabriel Silento... he could be anyone he wanted... and no one at all with little to no problem.

"Ahh if it is only going to be popcorn however.. I'd prefer it if you might allow me to treat you to a movie sometime along with your popcorn, Miss Mio."

Mio giggled. "Sure", she said meeting his eyes. "I like you, you're funny." He reminded her a bit of Andrew to be honest which probably meant Rekeren would disapprove of her being friendly with him. She wasn't sure this was such a good idea herself but as long as she was the only one on the line if he turned out to be a serial killer or something she was willing to risk it for the chance of making a new friend. "So do you know where the popcorn stall is?"

Gabriel chuckled lightly at the mention of him being funny. He certainly could be, but he was glad that she was enjoying his silliness in this case. "Well I have some idea. There is to be a reinactment of the event which inspired this whole thing... If I were to guess, the smartest of popcorn vendors will place themselves there, and so....." Gabriel didn't hesitate, his hand moved with the lightness of a feather and the speed of lightning as he took Mio's hand as well and started forward.. "With haste! Mio my dear, We must get there in time before the man is out of popcorn... for I still must give you the largest box of popcorn you have ever seen.. though I must say more and more.. I am counting it a blessing that we bumped into each other." His smile was bright as he looked back at her, leading the way towards the largest hustle, where the little mini play was about to start. "Onward to Popcorn Heaven!"

Laughter made it's way out of Mio's throat as she tried to keep up with her new companion in search of Popcorn Heaven. Then a thought occurred to her and her eyes widened. "Oh no! I complety forgot!" she exclaimed as she pulled them to a stop. "I'm supposed to be the narrator for that!" Then she started moving again, running in the direction of the scene they'd set up just this morning. This time she was the one dragging Gabriel along as she'd forgotten to let go of him. "I'm so sorry! Can I make it up to you some other time? We still have to go to that movie after all! Or maybe you could wait and we could meet up after the play? But you probably have places to be so maybe I shouldn't bother you. And I was really looking forward to eating popcorn with you too!" She was babbling, stress over getting to her job in time and not being able to make it up to her new friend right away for literally bumping into him causing her to be more incoherent than usual.

Things changed so swiftly even Gabriel had a hard time keeping track now. As they stopped for the first time he tried to get a word in, but found himself being dragged along. Gabriel caught the rhythm and kept up eventually only when they stopped for her to explain herself did he find himself out of breath, heaved over and half dying..... "When you need to go.. you go... mmm" He said in shortness of breath, and stifled a laugh. Finally regaining his composure Gabriel stood straight and looked down into her pretty cat-like eyes. "As you said, we still have a date at the movies right. I will look forward to it. What is your number I will remember it and send you a text. I don't want to keep you much longer after all."

Date? Mio felt her face heat up as she tried to remember her number. No, it was just a figure of speech, it didn't mean anything. When she finally got out all 10 digits her blush had receded. "I'm looking forward to it already," she beamed. She abruptly remembered that she was still almost late. "Well, I'll see you later!" she said and waved before she sped off again.

Gabriel waved back just before she was gone. Then pulled out his phone and plugged in his personal nickname for her before sending a text.

Name:
Little Luna

Gabriel then shut his phone, sighed lightly and turned around, reluctant but ready to be on his way. "Ahh yes what a wonderful.. '15' minutes this has been.... " he closed his eyes, until he ran into yet another obstacle... much stronger, stern...... strikingly familiar.... as the 'orb in his free hand now.... He didn't need to look up... The soft yet stern voice that greeted him.. he knew all too well.

"Indeed... 15 minutes Gabriel..."

Shit....

This was when the rain decided to stop falling and the sun broke through the clouds. The weather liked to be ironic that way.