Seams of Reality
Prisoner of Fate
- Location
- The Gap Between Realities
oh, right, the reveal of forbidden and traumatizing information
...Do we have any info that'll do that to The Adult?
...Do we have any info that'll do that to The Adult?
“Human Resources” Shouldn’t Be This Literal: A PMMM/ProjectMoon Quest
- Thread starter Lepidoptera
- Start date
-
- Tags
- library of ruina lobotomy corporation project moon puella magi madoka magica eldritch horror magical girl crossover eldritch protagonist female protagonist fluffy gore non-human protagonist suffering violence discussion is always good civ good decisions identity crises nuclear moth detected parenting powers activate
*Ozma looks cuter than you!*
*Adult dies of shame, CENSORED unlocks*
If only....
Gun and Powder
Tax Evader the Arknight Operator
- Location
- W.Corp Train
- Pronouns
- He/They
Nah man, we gotta CENSORED The Adult!
- Location
- America
I think if X revealed the Witch-Bomb to Mami, X would unlock [CENSORED]'s sapling
Like, that is probably the most straightforward way of unlocking it short of subjecting someone to X's 'un-shelled' form.
Mind, I do think we need to eventually witch bomb Mami it's just how to do that without causing her to go crazy/witch-out/distort is the problem
Like, that is probably the most straightforward way of unlocking it short of subjecting someone to X's 'un-shelled' form.
Mind, I do think we need to eventually witch bomb Mami it's just how to do that without causing her to go crazy/witch-out/distort is the problem
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2.2.16 - To The Core
Lepidoptera
Mother of Monsters, Unverified Impuritas Civitatis
- Location
- Indeterminate Unknown
Chapter 112 - To The Core
The night is cool and crisp as you scour the cities. The evening is low on light, allowing you free reign to leap from roof to roof. Nobody will see you on your search.
The children have all been put to bed. Mami and Kyoko are independent and don't need you hovering over them, yes, but the display of affection will do then good. The same goes for Yuma, with the exception being that your youngest still does need some attention.
Homura is likely awake at this point, watching over Madoka's house either from a nearby hiding spot or from within. Madoka's been inviting the other girl over a lot since they met, more than one might consider normal. You don't know if the time-traveller is staying at the Kaname house tonight, but you wouldn't bet against it. Could there be something going on between those two?
Their personalities do fit together rather well. Both are intensely determined, and Homura cares more about other people than she's willing to admit. Both are self-sacrificing to a fault, but with a little guidance they should be able to curtail that trait in each other. Of course, you're not even sure if receiving Madoka's affection would be a good thing for Homura right now.
She's most definitely not in any state to properly return such feelings, no matter if they exist or not. As a Distortion, Homura's already-intense levels of tunnel vision have been amplified. Her fixation on Madoka has been mitigated by the fact that interacting with you and the others tends to work towards her end goal, but that's only keeping the issue at bay. Sooner or later, you're going to need to address her problems directly before they have any unfortunate consequences.
Kyoko should be easier. Her Distortion was a near thing, and is antithetical to the situation she finds herself in. Surrounded by people who care about and forgive her, you fully expect Kyoko to recover in due time. And it will take time, but as long as things stay like this the end result seems inevitable. Still, you know better than to expect all to go well. It's always when everything seems to be going according to plan that interfering factors arise.
Speaking of interfering factors, your thoughts turn to the other two Distortions you've been dealing with. Argalia and Leonie. The latter will be difficult to deal with. She clearly has issues with independence. This makes any sort of rehabilitation difficult, because you need to get her to do things on her own. Guiding somebody through independence is not exactly an easy task. Not impossible, certainly, but difficult. Even more so when the person in question has no limbs and literally cannot do most things on their own. Hell, Argalia literally has to carry her everywhere.
Helping Leonie recover will most likely have to wait for better conditions. You already have three, occasionally six kids to look after, and you know better than to split your focus too far. You could probably take her in, considering the Distorted girl won't need much supervision in her current state, but actually helping her would be another matter. It might be a better idea to just leave her with Argalia.
Argalia. The other Distortion. Not quite a reliable ally, but he's actually being rather encouraging towards Leonie. You wouldn't trust a person like him with children under any normal circumstances, but these circumstances are anything but normal. The Blue Reverberation has a history of being a stabilizing, if not exactly positive, influence on Distortions. All his interactions with the compass-girl that you've seen so far have been encouraging. There is the possibility that he's just putting on a show to earn your trust, but you doubt it. Argalia seems to genuinely believe that his goals and yours align. For the moment, he is correct in that belief. The Adult Who Tells Lies is digging in and strengthening their position, and needs to be taken out as quickly as possible before they can set up any further than they already have. While the Blue Reverb's motives for helping are notably more personal than yours, it is still an alignment of motive. In the long term, though…
You have no interest in transforming all of humanity into Distortions. You didn't deal with all of Adam's bullshit, with the meltdowns and the clocks and the train and whatnot, just so you could turn around and do his plan yourself. Distortions may not be inherently evil, but they are inherently harmful. Either to themselves or others. Complete freedom for all people to express themselves without any restraints is the kind of thing that only sounds good if you either don't think about it at all or have gone off the deep end. Yes, people do need to accept themselves and be more aware and understanding of their own feelings, but they also need to temper their own desires and opinions. Unshaking beliefs tend to lead to disastrous actions. The whole mess that led to your creation is proof enough of that.
You are not confident in your ability to talk Argalia down, so your alliance with him will be a temporary thing. He hinted at planning against the Incubators as well, but you do want to have reversed some of your children's Distortions by that point and that will likely be a dealbreaker. For the time being, you just want to keep an eye on him. Hence tonight's search.
The eerie light of your Lamp fills the air, pulling the shadows taught into unnatural shapes around you. If anyone were to be wandering around in the middle of the night now, they might mistake it for a streetlight if you were not moving about. As it is, the sight of a strange light would likely be dismissed by anyone who might spot you. More importantly, the EGO's gleam reveals the faint blue traces scattered through the air.
Vibrations.
Argalia's presence is noticeable to Lamp's senses as long as you tune them right. It's quite a convenient ability, really. As long as you know what you want to look for, nothing remains hidden. Presently, you trace the tiny disruptions in the air left by Argalia's resonance-manipulating abilities in combination with his presence as a Distortion. The two together are enough to point you towards the former Color Fixer's location without any wandering around. Argalia did say he'd find you if you wanted to talk, but waiting around for things to happen isn't quite your style.
Crossing a bridge over a confusingly-designed highway, you sense a slight ripple in space ahead of you. For a moment you tense and ready to call up a weapon, only to relax ever so slightly after recognizing the feeling of stagnant resignation that comes with Leonie's presence. A moment later, the excited thrum of Argalia's own signature follow.
"Good evening."
You preempt the Distortion's greeting as he steps out onto the bridge, compass in hand.
"Most certainly, my friend. I was caught up in something, so forgive me for not greeting you right away. Still, this place does make for a more scenic meeting spot, don't you agree?" the man answers, greeting you with the same casual candor one might an old companion.
"I suppose it has a certain air to it. Or maybe that's just Mitakihara at night. All the lights they have up create a rather interesting aesthetic." you answer, entertaining Argalia's question in as natural a way as possible before you get down to business. "Slightly unrelated note, how'd you know when to arrive? I know you said Leonie's able to handle transportation, but how did you know I was looking for you."
Argalia tilts his head up slightly, the swirling clouds within whirling and churning to give the impression of a wandering gaze. "That would be the work of a mutual supporter of ours. Though I don't believe the two of you have ever properly met, have you? Regardless, she's been kind enough to continue guiding me to the completion of my dream." Confirmation that he's still in contact with Carmen. Not unexpected, though a bad sign for things to come. The less your mother is involved in things, the better. With that information delivered, Argalia's attention snaps back to you. "So, what is it that you have come to ask me?"
"Two issues in particular." you begin. "First of all is our collaboration against the Abnormality residing in Kamihama and its allies."
"What is it that we would be discussing?"
"You've been in and out of her territory. The defenses she's set up, how to move around in there, where to start an assault… anything, really."
"Ah, is that all? Well, I'd be happy to oblige." Argalia explains. "The vast majority of Kamihama has been converted into one of those distasteful little domains that Witches hide in. The contents have been altered to make it a more defensible position, so we can expect to be facing traps and tricks of all sorts once we enter. Some are reactive, and some are manually activated by the patrolling Familiars. Additionally, the whole city has been split up into sections of some sort. Everyone stayed in their own little divisions."
You raise an eyebrow. "Really? What purpose does that serve?" Such a thing is common when you're running an actual organization, but the Adult's forces are mostly mindless servants and a handful of Magical Girls from what you've heard. There's not much cause for organizational structures at that level.
"I would presume it's a measure to prevent communication between her subordinates. A control freak like that has no understanding of what makes a good workplace environment." Argalia says with a breathy laugh, though the suggestion is disturbingly likely. Not that she doesn't know how to promote healthy cooperation, but that she's intentionally putting her servants in positions that hurt them psychologically. Hell, Leonie Distorted because of the things she had to do.
"Not to mention it'd let the Adult built up a stronger relationship between herself and the kids than any of them could with one another. It would make it easier to control them."
"Ah, it always saddens me to see such utilitarian approaches to relationships. The world would be a much brighter place if people were to treat one another more genuinely, don't you agree?" Argalia says, leaning forwards and just the slightest bit into your personal space.
"Actually, that leads us quite nicely into my second topic." you announce, causing the former Fixer to pull back. "Leonie."
"What would you like for me to do?" the Distorted girl answers, speaking her first words in this conversation.
"It's less of a request and more of a suggestion, really." you say, trying to disconnect your proposal from the idea of giving an order. While Leonie won't be reaching out on her own, you do want her to have some choice in the matter. "I was just thinking that Leonie should have some more interactions with other kids. We should work out some times when she can spend time around the other children."
To the surprise of nobody who's been paying attention, Argalia agrees. "That would be truly wonderful. I do believe you're correct in saying that children need time to express themselves as children. Why, when we were younger, my sister and I were practically inseparable." Argalia's voice takes on a wistful yet almost manic tone. "Now, we have a much different sort of connection. Ah, but forgive me for becoming caught up. It's very inconsiderate when we're having a serious discussion, I know."
"That aside, I've taken the liberty of purchasing an apartment for you near my own. Use it or don't as you will, though proximity would make it easier to coordinate." you say.
"I very well might take you up on such an offer, my friend. It would certainly be a fortuitous thing for Leonie to have a chance to speak with your children further. What do you think, Leonie?" Argalia offers. Of course, the compass Distortion doesn't have much in the way of input.
"If that's what you want."
With a slight sigh, Argalia returns his attention to you. "Is there anything else?"
"Well…"
—————————
After grilling Argalia further on his escape from the Adult's territory and confirming the deaths of the copies of Eileen, Oswald, Elena, and Pluto, you and Argalia part ways. The Distorted Fixer seemed relieved to hear that you had slain the replica of Greta, and almost proud that you could tell something was off about it. You have a lot to say about the man, but you could never claim Argalia doesn't care about the people who follow him. Then again, caring about somebody and being a good influence on them are two entirely separate things. You're fairly certain that most of the Ensemble would've been better off if Argalia hadn't dragged them into his plans.
After checking to make sure Argalia is long gone, you draw your Invitation and sign. The Library's glow envelops you, and in an instant you stand within its halls.
Specifically, what looks to be Angela's office. Piles of books are scattered around a massive and intricately carved wooden desk into deceptively organized patterns. While at first glance the mess might look like, well, a mess, but a closer look reveals sorting by genre, level of detail, and length all just from the outside. Surrounding the area are rows and rows of bookshelves, each layer back growing higher and higher. A few small candles, perpetually half-melted, shed more illumination on the room than they reasonably should. Behind the desk, a single staircase cuts through the mountains of shelves and trails up into the bright light that fills the top of the room.
Your sister, of course, seems entirely unimpressed by all of this and is lying on her back on her desk, reading.
As you take a few steps forward, Angela disperses her book into particles and swings her legs around to more easily hop into standing position. With all the grace of somebody who definitely wasn't lying on their table just a moment ago, the Library Director greets you.
"Good evening, X. Are you here to-"
Her words are cut off by the sudden, violent retching that seizes you. You fall to your knees and double over in pain, clutching your chest as you heave lungfuls of sickly green fluid onto the ground. With a deep effort, you force the bile down and grit your teeth. Sterile solution continues to flood your mouth and trickle past your lips, though the flow is reduced. Your moment's victory is overturned immediately afterwards by a second, more agonizing bout of coughs. Each wracking motion feels like razor blades being run down your throat. Your skin feels raw and scarred. Every small touch, from the feeling of your hair against your neck to the brushing of your shirt against your back, feels like needles tearing violently in and out of your flesh. An uncanny pressure builds behind your skull and spreads throughout your body, your bones creaking in protest at whatever force is acting against you. Were you less disciplined, you might tear apart your own skin to try and relieve the agonizing building of pressure within your body. As it is, you simply sit silently and leer at the floor. Slowly, shaking, you force yourself to your feet.
And find Angela rushing to grab hold of you, having leap forwards the moment you began to collapse. Your sister loops your right arm over her shoulder, taking advantage of her shorter stature.
"Don't exert yourself. I can carry you just fine."
You do as requested at allow yourself to go slack. The pain recedes, but only slightly. Slowly, careful to not jostle you more than necessary, Angela drags you over to her desk and gently lays you across it.
"Don't move. I can figure out what's wrong." Angela says, calmly, though you can see her hands unusually tight as she rifles through her book and pulls out her own copy of Lamp. A kaleidoscope of different images appear as your sister flicks through the pages at a speed that should reduce any normal paper to dust. You can feel various scanning methods washing over you, flowing through your body down to the component particles and then further. Even at a time like this, you can't help but feel a swell of pride at how competent Angela has become. She's come a long way from being just another actor on your parents' stage. Of course, the fact that she's using that considerable prowess to help you doesn't hurt either.
After a few seconds that feel like they are stretching into an eternity, Angela conjures a different EGO weapon. It looks different from the mass-produced mechanical versions from the Facility, but the sight of Penitence is unmistakable. The oversized black cross, rimmed with tarnished silver, can only be the EGO of the first Abnormality you ever managed. Slowly, as Angela rests a hand on the massive weapon, your pain recedes. The pressure in your bones lessens, slowly becoming manageable. You try to summon some EGO of your own to hasten the process, but the mere thought sends another pair of pain through you.
"Just don't move and let me take care of things. Really, you always did have issues with micromanaging, sister." Angela says, shaking her head as your flesh is mended. With a small grimace, you lie back and try to relax. Remaining idle during times of urgency doesn't come easy to you. Once the last of the pain has vanished, you sit up slowly.
"Sooo… gonna explain what just happened?" you ask casually.
Angela stares at you with a look in her eyes that somebody less familiar with her might almost mistake for pity. Slowly, carefully, she answers. "You are experiencing a consequence of your unique nature, likely exacerbated by your episode last week. If one were to compare it to something more easily understood, you could call it a form of autoimmune rejection."
"Just tell me what's going on, Angela. I expect this sort of roundabout comparison from Binah or Hokma, not you." you respond tiredly.
"If that is what you wish." Angela says, resigned. "Abnormalities are, under normal circumstances, completely immortal. Anything that would destroy them simply forces them to revert to a dormant state, in which harming them is impossible. A proper Abnormality would never suffer sickness or weakness unless it were forced upon them, and even then it would not last. What has happened to you is a consequence of your own dealing of your identity as an Abnormality."
You say nothing. It suddenly strikes you just how quiet it is in Angela's office, the dimensional anomalies that make up the Library keeping it separate from even the faintest echoes of chatter from its other residents. All there is is the faint crackle of the candles' flames and the orderly drumming of your fingers against the wood of the desk.
"The method of healing you've used is highly unusual. Actually transforming an Abnormality into a human would be impossible, so it seems you have instead prevented yourself from fully becoming an Abnormality in the first place." Seeing the way your eyes light up, Angela is quick to finish. "You are an Abnormality still, but one frozen in the final stages of creation. As such, you have more liberty in restraining yourself than the typical Abnormality does. Unfortunately, this state is tenuous. Your own indecision, your active choice to reject the completion of your self as an Abnormality, is killing you."
"I'm sorry, did we forget the part where I'm turning into an apocalypse beast that would probably do the exact thing we both had to fight a lunatic who worships Mom in order to stop? It's not like I can just let it happen." you say.
"No, you are right that such an outcome would be… unfavorable. I would definitely miss these little talks of ours." Angela agrees. "Any decision made in this area will be one for the future, not immediately. Episodes like these will slowly become more common over the course of several years, eventually reaching a point where you will have to chose to either die as a human or live as an Abnormality."
You state at Angela.
She looks back at you.
"Your bedside manner is absolutely atrocious, you know that right?"
A small smile makes itself visible on Angela's face as she looks away to hide her amusement before composing herself and looking back. You return the smirk, and she allows the smile to appear once again. "Whatever. The point is, you should avoid exerting yourself while these episodes are occurring. Any external healing will be sufficient to prevent lasting damage. This issue should be settled for now."
You push forwards off of the desk, hopping to your feet and wrapping your arms around Angela. Your sister freezes at the sudden contact, then carefully returns the hug. There's a notable nervousness to her touch, as though she's not sure if she's doing it right. You hold the position for a second, long enough for Angela to acclimate, then gradually pull away. Angela stares at you, golden eyes wide with confusion.
"I don't think I've said this recently, but you're a great sister. Thanks for everything, really."
Angela says nothing, but the tiny droplets forming at the corners of her eyes tell you all you need.
———————————————
[] Take a break.
[] Receive…
-[] The gaze from the keyhole is fixed on its target without ever stopping.
-[] All things in nature are bound to turn to dust one day.
-[] They cared about each other from the bottom of their hearts.
-[] Pink is considered the color of warmth and love, but is that true?
-[] Fall beyond the bounds of convention.
———————————————
Der Freischütz's Sapling - Observation Level 2/3
Porccubus' Sapling - Observation Level 2/3
CENSORED's Sapling - Observation Level EXPUNGED/REDACTED
It's been a long time since this story received a proper update. At least, relative to my usual schedule. Have a long Chapter as a reward for your patience.
The night is cool and crisp as you scour the cities. The evening is low on light, allowing you free reign to leap from roof to roof. Nobody will see you on your search.
The children have all been put to bed. Mami and Kyoko are independent and don't need you hovering over them, yes, but the display of affection will do then good. The same goes for Yuma, with the exception being that your youngest still does need some attention.
Homura is likely awake at this point, watching over Madoka's house either from a nearby hiding spot or from within. Madoka's been inviting the other girl over a lot since they met, more than one might consider normal. You don't know if the time-traveller is staying at the Kaname house tonight, but you wouldn't bet against it. Could there be something going on between those two?
Their personalities do fit together rather well. Both are intensely determined, and Homura cares more about other people than she's willing to admit. Both are self-sacrificing to a fault, but with a little guidance they should be able to curtail that trait in each other. Of course, you're not even sure if receiving Madoka's affection would be a good thing for Homura right now.
She's most definitely not in any state to properly return such feelings, no matter if they exist or not. As a Distortion, Homura's already-intense levels of tunnel vision have been amplified. Her fixation on Madoka has been mitigated by the fact that interacting with you and the others tends to work towards her end goal, but that's only keeping the issue at bay. Sooner or later, you're going to need to address her problems directly before they have any unfortunate consequences.
Kyoko should be easier. Her Distortion was a near thing, and is antithetical to the situation she finds herself in. Surrounded by people who care about and forgive her, you fully expect Kyoko to recover in due time. And it will take time, but as long as things stay like this the end result seems inevitable. Still, you know better than to expect all to go well. It's always when everything seems to be going according to plan that interfering factors arise.
Speaking of interfering factors, your thoughts turn to the other two Distortions you've been dealing with. Argalia and Leonie. The latter will be difficult to deal with. She clearly has issues with independence. This makes any sort of rehabilitation difficult, because you need to get her to do things on her own. Guiding somebody through independence is not exactly an easy task. Not impossible, certainly, but difficult. Even more so when the person in question has no limbs and literally cannot do most things on their own. Hell, Argalia literally has to carry her everywhere.
Helping Leonie recover will most likely have to wait for better conditions. You already have three, occasionally six kids to look after, and you know better than to split your focus too far. You could probably take her in, considering the Distorted girl won't need much supervision in her current state, but actually helping her would be another matter. It might be a better idea to just leave her with Argalia.
Argalia. The other Distortion. Not quite a reliable ally, but he's actually being rather encouraging towards Leonie. You wouldn't trust a person like him with children under any normal circumstances, but these circumstances are anything but normal. The Blue Reverberation has a history of being a stabilizing, if not exactly positive, influence on Distortions. All his interactions with the compass-girl that you've seen so far have been encouraging. There is the possibility that he's just putting on a show to earn your trust, but you doubt it. Argalia seems to genuinely believe that his goals and yours align. For the moment, he is correct in that belief. The Adult Who Tells Lies is digging in and strengthening their position, and needs to be taken out as quickly as possible before they can set up any further than they already have. While the Blue Reverb's motives for helping are notably more personal than yours, it is still an alignment of motive. In the long term, though…
You have no interest in transforming all of humanity into Distortions. You didn't deal with all of Adam's bullshit, with the meltdowns and the clocks and the train and whatnot, just so you could turn around and do his plan yourself. Distortions may not be inherently evil, but they are inherently harmful. Either to themselves or others. Complete freedom for all people to express themselves without any restraints is the kind of thing that only sounds good if you either don't think about it at all or have gone off the deep end. Yes, people do need to accept themselves and be more aware and understanding of their own feelings, but they also need to temper their own desires and opinions. Unshaking beliefs tend to lead to disastrous actions. The whole mess that led to your creation is proof enough of that.
You are not confident in your ability to talk Argalia down, so your alliance with him will be a temporary thing. He hinted at planning against the Incubators as well, but you do want to have reversed some of your children's Distortions by that point and that will likely be a dealbreaker. For the time being, you just want to keep an eye on him. Hence tonight's search.
The eerie light of your Lamp fills the air, pulling the shadows taught into unnatural shapes around you. If anyone were to be wandering around in the middle of the night now, they might mistake it for a streetlight if you were not moving about. As it is, the sight of a strange light would likely be dismissed by anyone who might spot you. More importantly, the EGO's gleam reveals the faint blue traces scattered through the air.
Vibrations.
Argalia's presence is noticeable to Lamp's senses as long as you tune them right. It's quite a convenient ability, really. As long as you know what you want to look for, nothing remains hidden. Presently, you trace the tiny disruptions in the air left by Argalia's resonance-manipulating abilities in combination with his presence as a Distortion. The two together are enough to point you towards the former Color Fixer's location without any wandering around. Argalia did say he'd find you if you wanted to talk, but waiting around for things to happen isn't quite your style.
Crossing a bridge over a confusingly-designed highway, you sense a slight ripple in space ahead of you. For a moment you tense and ready to call up a weapon, only to relax ever so slightly after recognizing the feeling of stagnant resignation that comes with Leonie's presence. A moment later, the excited thrum of Argalia's own signature follow.
"Good evening."
You preempt the Distortion's greeting as he steps out onto the bridge, compass in hand.
"Most certainly, my friend. I was caught up in something, so forgive me for not greeting you right away. Still, this place does make for a more scenic meeting spot, don't you agree?" the man answers, greeting you with the same casual candor one might an old companion.
"I suppose it has a certain air to it. Or maybe that's just Mitakihara at night. All the lights they have up create a rather interesting aesthetic." you answer, entertaining Argalia's question in as natural a way as possible before you get down to business. "Slightly unrelated note, how'd you know when to arrive? I know you said Leonie's able to handle transportation, but how did you know I was looking for you."
Argalia tilts his head up slightly, the swirling clouds within whirling and churning to give the impression of a wandering gaze. "That would be the work of a mutual supporter of ours. Though I don't believe the two of you have ever properly met, have you? Regardless, she's been kind enough to continue guiding me to the completion of my dream." Confirmation that he's still in contact with Carmen. Not unexpected, though a bad sign for things to come. The less your mother is involved in things, the better. With that information delivered, Argalia's attention snaps back to you. "So, what is it that you have come to ask me?"
"Two issues in particular." you begin. "First of all is our collaboration against the Abnormality residing in Kamihama and its allies."
"What is it that we would be discussing?"
"You've been in and out of her territory. The defenses she's set up, how to move around in there, where to start an assault… anything, really."
"Ah, is that all? Well, I'd be happy to oblige." Argalia explains. "The vast majority of Kamihama has been converted into one of those distasteful little domains that Witches hide in. The contents have been altered to make it a more defensible position, so we can expect to be facing traps and tricks of all sorts once we enter. Some are reactive, and some are manually activated by the patrolling Familiars. Additionally, the whole city has been split up into sections of some sort. Everyone stayed in their own little divisions."
You raise an eyebrow. "Really? What purpose does that serve?" Such a thing is common when you're running an actual organization, but the Adult's forces are mostly mindless servants and a handful of Magical Girls from what you've heard. There's not much cause for organizational structures at that level.
"I would presume it's a measure to prevent communication between her subordinates. A control freak like that has no understanding of what makes a good workplace environment." Argalia says with a breathy laugh, though the suggestion is disturbingly likely. Not that she doesn't know how to promote healthy cooperation, but that she's intentionally putting her servants in positions that hurt them psychologically. Hell, Leonie Distorted because of the things she had to do.
"Not to mention it'd let the Adult built up a stronger relationship between herself and the kids than any of them could with one another. It would make it easier to control them."
"Ah, it always saddens me to see such utilitarian approaches to relationships. The world would be a much brighter place if people were to treat one another more genuinely, don't you agree?" Argalia says, leaning forwards and just the slightest bit into your personal space.
"Actually, that leads us quite nicely into my second topic." you announce, causing the former Fixer to pull back. "Leonie."
"What would you like for me to do?" the Distorted girl answers, speaking her first words in this conversation.
"It's less of a request and more of a suggestion, really." you say, trying to disconnect your proposal from the idea of giving an order. While Leonie won't be reaching out on her own, you do want her to have some choice in the matter. "I was just thinking that Leonie should have some more interactions with other kids. We should work out some times when she can spend time around the other children."
To the surprise of nobody who's been paying attention, Argalia agrees. "That would be truly wonderful. I do believe you're correct in saying that children need time to express themselves as children. Why, when we were younger, my sister and I were practically inseparable." Argalia's voice takes on a wistful yet almost manic tone. "Now, we have a much different sort of connection. Ah, but forgive me for becoming caught up. It's very inconsiderate when we're having a serious discussion, I know."
"That aside, I've taken the liberty of purchasing an apartment for you near my own. Use it or don't as you will, though proximity would make it easier to coordinate." you say.
"I very well might take you up on such an offer, my friend. It would certainly be a fortuitous thing for Leonie to have a chance to speak with your children further. What do you think, Leonie?" Argalia offers. Of course, the compass Distortion doesn't have much in the way of input.
"If that's what you want."
With a slight sigh, Argalia returns his attention to you. "Is there anything else?"
"Well…"
—————————
After grilling Argalia further on his escape from the Adult's territory and confirming the deaths of the copies of Eileen, Oswald, Elena, and Pluto, you and Argalia part ways. The Distorted Fixer seemed relieved to hear that you had slain the replica of Greta, and almost proud that you could tell something was off about it. You have a lot to say about the man, but you could never claim Argalia doesn't care about the people who follow him. Then again, caring about somebody and being a good influence on them are two entirely separate things. You're fairly certain that most of the Ensemble would've been better off if Argalia hadn't dragged them into his plans.
After checking to make sure Argalia is long gone, you draw your Invitation and sign. The Library's glow envelops you, and in an instant you stand within its halls.
Specifically, what looks to be Angela's office. Piles of books are scattered around a massive and intricately carved wooden desk into deceptively organized patterns. While at first glance the mess might look like, well, a mess, but a closer look reveals sorting by genre, level of detail, and length all just from the outside. Surrounding the area are rows and rows of bookshelves, each layer back growing higher and higher. A few small candles, perpetually half-melted, shed more illumination on the room than they reasonably should. Behind the desk, a single staircase cuts through the mountains of shelves and trails up into the bright light that fills the top of the room.
Your sister, of course, seems entirely unimpressed by all of this and is lying on her back on her desk, reading.
As you take a few steps forward, Angela disperses her book into particles and swings her legs around to more easily hop into standing position. With all the grace of somebody who definitely wasn't lying on their table just a moment ago, the Library Director greets you.
"Good evening, X. Are you here to-"
Her words are cut off by the sudden, violent retching that seizes you. You fall to your knees and double over in pain, clutching your chest as you heave lungfuls of sickly green fluid onto the ground. With a deep effort, you force the bile down and grit your teeth. Sterile solution continues to flood your mouth and trickle past your lips, though the flow is reduced. Your moment's victory is overturned immediately afterwards by a second, more agonizing bout of coughs. Each wracking motion feels like razor blades being run down your throat. Your skin feels raw and scarred. Every small touch, from the feeling of your hair against your neck to the brushing of your shirt against your back, feels like needles tearing violently in and out of your flesh. An uncanny pressure builds behind your skull and spreads throughout your body, your bones creaking in protest at whatever force is acting against you. Were you less disciplined, you might tear apart your own skin to try and relieve the agonizing building of pressure within your body. As it is, you simply sit silently and leer at the floor. Slowly, shaking, you force yourself to your feet.
And find Angela rushing to grab hold of you, having leap forwards the moment you began to collapse. Your sister loops your right arm over her shoulder, taking advantage of her shorter stature.
"Don't exert yourself. I can carry you just fine."
You do as requested at allow yourself to go slack. The pain recedes, but only slightly. Slowly, careful to not jostle you more than necessary, Angela drags you over to her desk and gently lays you across it.
"Don't move. I can figure out what's wrong." Angela says, calmly, though you can see her hands unusually tight as she rifles through her book and pulls out her own copy of Lamp. A kaleidoscope of different images appear as your sister flicks through the pages at a speed that should reduce any normal paper to dust. You can feel various scanning methods washing over you, flowing through your body down to the component particles and then further. Even at a time like this, you can't help but feel a swell of pride at how competent Angela has become. She's come a long way from being just another actor on your parents' stage. Of course, the fact that she's using that considerable prowess to help you doesn't hurt either.
After a few seconds that feel like they are stretching into an eternity, Angela conjures a different EGO weapon. It looks different from the mass-produced mechanical versions from the Facility, but the sight of Penitence is unmistakable. The oversized black cross, rimmed with tarnished silver, can only be the EGO of the first Abnormality you ever managed. Slowly, as Angela rests a hand on the massive weapon, your pain recedes. The pressure in your bones lessens, slowly becoming manageable. You try to summon some EGO of your own to hasten the process, but the mere thought sends another pair of pain through you.
"Just don't move and let me take care of things. Really, you always did have issues with micromanaging, sister." Angela says, shaking her head as your flesh is mended. With a small grimace, you lie back and try to relax. Remaining idle during times of urgency doesn't come easy to you. Once the last of the pain has vanished, you sit up slowly.
"Sooo… gonna explain what just happened?" you ask casually.
Angela stares at you with a look in her eyes that somebody less familiar with her might almost mistake for pity. Slowly, carefully, she answers. "You are experiencing a consequence of your unique nature, likely exacerbated by your episode last week. If one were to compare it to something more easily understood, you could call it a form of autoimmune rejection."
"Just tell me what's going on, Angela. I expect this sort of roundabout comparison from Binah or Hokma, not you." you respond tiredly.
"If that is what you wish." Angela says, resigned. "Abnormalities are, under normal circumstances, completely immortal. Anything that would destroy them simply forces them to revert to a dormant state, in which harming them is impossible. A proper Abnormality would never suffer sickness or weakness unless it were forced upon them, and even then it would not last. What has happened to you is a consequence of your own dealing of your identity as an Abnormality."
You say nothing. It suddenly strikes you just how quiet it is in Angela's office, the dimensional anomalies that make up the Library keeping it separate from even the faintest echoes of chatter from its other residents. All there is is the faint crackle of the candles' flames and the orderly drumming of your fingers against the wood of the desk.
"The method of healing you've used is highly unusual. Actually transforming an Abnormality into a human would be impossible, so it seems you have instead prevented yourself from fully becoming an Abnormality in the first place." Seeing the way your eyes light up, Angela is quick to finish. "You are an Abnormality still, but one frozen in the final stages of creation. As such, you have more liberty in restraining yourself than the typical Abnormality does. Unfortunately, this state is tenuous. Your own indecision, your active choice to reject the completion of your self as an Abnormality, is killing you."
"I'm sorry, did we forget the part where I'm turning into an apocalypse beast that would probably do the exact thing we both had to fight a lunatic who worships Mom in order to stop? It's not like I can just let it happen." you say.
"No, you are right that such an outcome would be… unfavorable. I would definitely miss these little talks of ours." Angela agrees. "Any decision made in this area will be one for the future, not immediately. Episodes like these will slowly become more common over the course of several years, eventually reaching a point where you will have to chose to either die as a human or live as an Abnormality."
You state at Angela.
She looks back at you.
"Your bedside manner is absolutely atrocious, you know that right?"
A small smile makes itself visible on Angela's face as she looks away to hide her amusement before composing herself and looking back. You return the smirk, and she allows the smile to appear once again. "Whatever. The point is, you should avoid exerting yourself while these episodes are occurring. Any external healing will be sufficient to prevent lasting damage. This issue should be settled for now."
You push forwards off of the desk, hopping to your feet and wrapping your arms around Angela. Your sister freezes at the sudden contact, then carefully returns the hug. There's a notable nervousness to her touch, as though she's not sure if she's doing it right. You hold the position for a second, long enough for Angela to acclimate, then gradually pull away. Angela stares at you, golden eyes wide with confusion.
"I don't think I've said this recently, but you're a great sister. Thanks for everything, really."
Angela says nothing, but the tiny droplets forming at the corners of her eyes tell you all you need.
———————————————
[] Take a break.
[] Receive…
-[] The gaze from the keyhole is fixed on its target without ever stopping.
-[] All things in nature are bound to turn to dust one day.
-[] They cared about each other from the bottom of their hearts.
-[] Pink is considered the color of warmth and love, but is that true?
-[] Fall beyond the bounds of convention.
———————————————
Der Freischütz's Sapling - Observation Level 2/3
Porccubus' Sapling - Observation Level 2/3
CENSORED's Sapling - Observation Level EXPUNGED/REDACTED
It's been a long time since this story received a proper update. At least, relative to my usual schedule. Have a long Chapter as a reward for your patience.
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- Location
- Deep in a bog
[X]Receive…
-[X] They cared about each other from the bottom of their hearts.
-[X] They cared about each other from the bottom of their hearts.
WilyMachineKing1
Executive Manager of Limbus Company
- Location
- Reno Nevada
I think you mean oh [CENSORED] [CENSORED] [CENSORED] with a [CENSORED] and a [CENSORED] so it can shove it up the [CENSORED] [CENSORED].
- Location
- Deep in a bog
Eh, we've got a few years. Though when the time comes I'm in favor of becoming an Abnormality. Why? No particular reason, but the idea of being an eternal reminder of the gong show that was Lobotomy Corporation is appealing to me.
kaillll
Judgment Upon You
Unless we can change Xs core idea to something less destructive.
We're going to be very, very bad if we turn into abnormality so much so that our sister might have to contain us indefinitely.
No, not might, will.
King of hell will forever be locked in hell so that the mortal realm is not hurt by its present.
This is going to be so bad, and our kids are gonna be so sad
We're going to be very, very bad if we turn into abnormality so much so that our sister might have to contain us indefinitely.
No, not might, will.
King of hell will forever be locked in hell so that the mortal realm is not hurt by its present.
This is going to be so bad, and our kids are gonna be so sad
- Location
- Deep in a bog
Maybe, maybe. But that is still a few years off. On a different note, is X one of those rare natural abnormalities (like the birds)?
questioningmeme
Just be yourself
- Location
- River of Light
Ooohh boy.
That's bad. Well, not that it would matter much for now but I can already see that being a pain in the ass in the future if another episode happens in the middle of something important.
Some good information about Argalia's side and getting him to stay near us is a plus in observing him more.
On the other hand...Ugh.
It's not even a matter of merely beating Carmen. Even if X wanted, she still can't shed her shell, because DoSaM will still destroy the world even without the whole Distortion problem.
And lastly...We know that Carmen is still with Argalia...can we ask him to ask her to talk to us? Even if all she would do is tell us to-
: There's nothing to fear! Rise and take flight, darling! Let's soar high! For the first time in forever, you're alive! Embrace your inner beauty, my daughter! And show the world your glorious form!
-do that kind of stuff.
At least, try someway to prevent this. As it's either Ayin or Carmen that are the foremost experts on dealing with matters like this.
That's bad. Well, not that it would matter much for now but I can already see that being a pain in the ass in the future if another episode happens in the middle of something important.
Some good information about Argalia's side and getting him to stay near us is a plus in observing him more.
On the other hand...Ugh.
It's not even a matter of merely beating Carmen. Even if X wanted, she still can't shed her shell, because DoSaM will still destroy the world even without the whole Distortion problem.
And lastly...We know that Carmen is still with Argalia...can we ask him to ask her to talk to us? Even if all she would do is tell us to-
: There's nothing to fear! Rise and take flight, darling! Let's soar high! For the first time in forever, you're alive! Embrace your inner beauty, my daughter! And show the world your glorious form!-do that kind of stuff.
At least, try someway to prevent this. As it's either Ayin or Carmen that are the foremost experts on dealing with matters like this.
kaillll
Judgment Upon You
I don't count being submerged in light (PURE COGITO thats safe for normal people) as natural.
Anyway, We are rather dismissive towards our blue bastard, with us changing the topic everytime he tries to make us express ourself... And he definitely already picked up on that, Wonder what will happen.
Our condition is something that we must tell our kids about, It is good for a parent to be honest
Anyway, We are rather dismissive towards our blue bastard, with us changing the topic everytime he tries to make us express ourself... And he definitely already picked up on that, Wonder what will happen.
Our condition is something that we must tell our kids about, It is good for a parent to be honest
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- Location
- Deep in a bog
X: Don't become an abnormality. I did. Worst career choice of my life.
questioningmeme
Just be yourself
- Location
- River of Light
NOononoononno Don't tell our kids just yet.
What the hell do you think Mami and Yuma are gonna feel when X bring up the fact that she's gonna die? I wouldn't be surprised if they distorted on the spot.
What the hell do you think Mami and Yuma are gonna feel when X bring up the fact that she's gonna die? I wouldn't be surprised if they distorted on the spot.
- Location
- Deep in a bog
Mami? Yes, I can see her distorting. Yuma? That kid is, mentally speaking, built like a goddamn brick wall. Sure, she'll be sad but I have no doubt in my mind that she will do her best to treasure her time with X.
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Seams of Reality
Prisoner of Fate
- Location
- The Gap Between Realities
Hmmm.
I have thought about another way of getting the CENSORED sapling.
Would telling the Adult of it's true origins (That being the Well) work?
Oh yeah by the way maybe we should put this information off until after the crisis is over?
I have thought about another way of getting the CENSORED sapling.
Would telling the Adult of it's true origins (That being the Well) work?
Oh yeah by the way maybe we should put this information off until after the crisis is over?
kaillll
Judgment Upon You
Dear fellow, the adult already knows that, every goddamn abnormality comes from the well and they knows that already.
it is not sensitive information or knowledge that should not be known by anyone. It is common Knowledge for those abnormalities.
We are either going to Tell them the witch bomb or this for CENSORED since this is Very very mind breaking Information that can potentially kill someone, we just need to tell it to someone that's actually have the mental strength to not break down.
it is not sensitive information or knowledge that should not be known by anyone. It is common Knowledge for those abnormalities.
We are either going to Tell them the witch bomb or this for CENSORED since this is Very very mind breaking Information that can potentially kill someone, we just need to tell it to someone that's actually have the mental strength to not break down.
questioningmeme
Just be yourself
- Location
- River of Light
Ya know, we should probably ask our sister about how to see these 'episodes' ahead of time.
It would really be inconvenient for us to literally break down in an important moment.
It would really be inconvenient for us to literally break down in an important moment.
- Location
- Deep in a bog
"You need to be a complete abnormality for that, you idiot."
- Location
- Deep in a bog
"I don't know. How about asking Appocoleps Bird? He also lacks a Qliphoth Counter."
Of course not! how preposterous, it's not like Homura spent about ten years centering her whole life around Madoka or anything! Or that Madoka does have some memories from said ten years leaking in the current timeline!
Make her walk on her own two feet! That should help!
...Wait.
I don't know why, but I have the feeling Leonie would absolutely love to meet Eeyore if he existed.
Just a hunch.
Even Argalia can tell that the answer she just gave is not great, come on Leonie, show a little enthusiasm! Learn to Smile! I'm sure you can do it!
Well then, easy solution: Take the plunge! I'm sure it would be fine!
I already chose, and it will be live, thank you very much, I'm sure there are ways to control more of our nature and make ourself safe to interact with included in our gifts and marks, we just have to find them.
[x] Receive…
-[x] The gaze from the keyhole is fixed on its target without ever stopping.
Let's feel a little Shadenfreude to help the heavy atmosphere.