Scheduled vote count started by Solarstream on Oct 14, 2024 at 11:46 AM, finished with 7 posts and 3 votes.
[x] Cover the essentials, and add in further details (select as you like below) -[x] Lulu came back as a ghost briefly and I had to help her pass on -[x] My childhood friend and my niece are also Magical Girls fighting Viticulture, and they rescued Rosie --[x] Also, I think my mom was a Magical Girl, but I don't actually know that since she died when I was in high school (no idea what Dad was doing)
Winning vote: [X] Cover the essentials, and add in further details (select as you like below)
-[X] Lulu came back as a ghost briefly and I had to help her pass on
-[X] My childhood friend and my niece are also Magical Girls fighting Viticulture, and they rescued Rosie
--[X] Also, I think my mom was a Magical Girl, but I don't actually know that since she died when I was in high school (no idea what Dad was doing)
White Rose ~Flower of Innocence~ (11)
Dinner was delicious.
Sliced ham, potato salad, buttered broccoli, cornbread, and chocolate chip cookies for the kids. I didn't have dessert, but Mrs. Drake did offer to put on some tea for me now that said kids (and a contented Goldie) are in another room watching the TV. And now that we're alone, time to fill her in.
Me: I can't thank you enough for agreeing to this by the way. You're a real life-saver!
She lets out a weary sigh from the kitchen.
Charlotte: If only...
I flinch. Maybe I should have used a different turn of phrase.
Me: Ah, uh... what I meant is-.
Charlotte: I know what you meant.
She then walks over and join me in the living room with a steaming mug of honeyed chamomile tea for me and a glass lightly filled with whiskey for her. The scents are soothing and sharp, and make me briefly wish my niece didn't take Violet's gift with her. They do need it just in case they ran into someone willing to cooperate, though...
I can only rely on my own word to convince Mrs. Drake of the truth. Hopefully that's enough...
Charlotte: But I still don't know what she meant back then. So, give me some answers.
Right. Rosie's little outburst. It turned out to be just what we needed.
Me: Then I'll start there. You remember Molly Knight.
I don't ask a question because I don't need an answer. The way her face hardens in hate as she leans forward in her rocking chair tells me enough.
Charlotte: You know her mother called me?
I sure didn't.
Me: Oh?
She takes a long sip of her hot tea.
Charlotte: Tried to blame me and my dear Lulu for ruining her daughter's life. Can you imagine? Not even trying to pretend that either of them felt guilty over what happened. She told me if I ever tried to retaliate against her family, I'll wish I was as dead as my 'good-for-nothing fool' daughter. She'd bury me herself, hahaha.
...that was not a happy laugh.
Charlotte: I'll never forget either of them.
Of all the nights to have a clear sky! I would have appreciated a lightning strike right then and there. Would have explained the sudden feeling I got of the air suddenly growing hot enough to burn, just like a wrathful dragon's breath...!
Me: ...I wouldn't either. And you won't be pleased to hear that there's more women like little Molly and her mom in town. They call themselves Viticulture.
Her hateful gaze turns into a confused frown. I sip from my own mug as she speaks.
Charlotte: You're right, I'm not. But I've never heard of any group like that before. They a bunch of rich punks? It's an odd name.
Me: An odd name for an odd group of people. Their interests lie in magic.
And there's the blank look I was expecting.
Charlotte: ...magic? Like stage magicians? Or are they some cult?
Me: Probbbbably the second one.
Charlotte: Explains why they can't let bygones be bygones. Alright, what do they want?
Me: That...
I lean back on the couch. I don't actually know the answer to that one!
Me: Well, Rosie was important enough to them to keep locked up in the Alletown Art Museum. So-.
She cuts me off yet again, surprise flashing like a lightning bolt on her face.
Charlotte: That was you!?
I shake my head.
Charlotte: Then whoooo...?
Me: it might be hard to believe but... the rescue operation was done by none other than my niece Sarah Kennedy and my friend Mary Raffles. You've met them both.
She blinks, confused.
Charlotte: Really, them? Maybe Mary's got the temperament for it, but Sarah's way too straightlaced for a break-in.
I chuckle.
Me: Under other circumstances, yeah, she'd never do it. But this time was a special occasion.
One to be repeated, since they've returned.
Me: Mary found out about Rosie from a trusted source, and once Sarah learned about her, there was no way she'd refuse to save the kid. And to be clear, only Rosie was trapped in there; Olive volunteered to help keep an eye on her. ...to be honest, I also wish she'd gone home to her parents, but my hands are tied here.
Charlotte: I... don't understand why? Surely, you could just tell her to go home, right?
Me: Hmph! Even if I did, she wouldn't listen. Besides, she and Mary shot down the idea of turning to her parents for help anyway. Don't know why.
Mrs. Drake considers my words for a moment before bringing things back on topic.
Charlotte: So... wait, if Rosie was in the Alletown Art Museum, then did the Museum Director know-?
Me: -about Rosie? Yes. She's even one of Viticulture's leaders.
Mrs. Drake raises an eyebrow at that.
Charlotte: Oh? Any other civic leaders involved in this cult? She's friends with the City's Mayor, right? And she's probably on her neighborhood association's board of directors? ... well, I don't know that for sure, I'm just guessing. Don't know if you've met either of them, but my friends Mr. Aiden O'Keefe and Mrs. Marge Baker are on the local board here in Dwarfpeak.
I blink.
Me: I... no, I didn't know any of that. Don't know who else is involved in Viticulture either. Mary's been keeping a tight hold on the details.
She takes a big sip from her glass and breathes out a warm sigh.
Charlotte: Hmm, should have figured. She was friendly and all, but pretty closed off the one time I did talk to her. Alright, so what do you know?
Me: Only a few things beyond what I've already said. But firstly, I think you might be missing some context. When I said they were interested in magic, I meant it. Real magic.
She nods.
Charlotte: Yeah, they're weirdoes who believe in hocus pocus bullshit. We covered that.
A take a big sip from my mug and then set it down.
Charlotte: ...you're not about to tell me you believe in magic too, are you?
Me: I don't believe in it; I've seen it. You remember that broadcast of the break-in footage?
Mrs. Drake nods slowly, confused, before mentioning that she has the ability to replay it. I ask her to do so and watch the footage carefully. Mary's in a slim black outfit, maybe a bodysuit, and Sarah's in something similar though in her distinctive purple and with some of her magical frills. Both are cloaked in the red rose masks, of course, and Charlotte complains of the footage being blurry.
Me: It's not blurry to me.
Charlotte: ...huh?
Me: Actually, if you could get me some paper...
Neither of us are much for art, but that doesn't matter. I just ask her to draw what she sees. And the difference is revealing. I get somewhat close to the truth, while she only sees indistinct shapes. It's only after seeing my drawing and looking at the footage again...
Charlotte: That's... oh, what!?
...can she see what I see. Though their faces are still concealed, of course.
Charlotte: So, that's Mary in black and Sarah in purple, huh? Actually, Sarah's outfit reminds me of something. I think some of the characters in that Fairy Knights of Sylvia show Lulu loved had similar outfits.
Me: Well, it's the same type of magic, so that makes sense.
She blinks.
Charlotte: Huh?
Me: Yes, they're Magical Girls. Well, Magical Women due to being adults, but same principle.
Charlotte: Oh my... Lulu would have loved to know that they're real...
Me: Ah, well, about that...
She turns to face me, eyes wide.
Charlotte: Did she know? ...was she involved in all this and kept it from me?
Me: ...
I'm going to break her heart, but not in the way she expects.
Me: ...Mary, Sarah, and I were instrumental in helping her spirit pass on after she passed. She didn't know until after it was too late.
She's confused at first.
Charlotte: Spirit... a ghost? My little girl?
Then wrathful, as if burning with dragon's fire.
Charlotte: Molly must have done that to her.
Before relaxing yet again. (And so do I, with her not knowing.)
Charlotte: So, that was why you suddenly showed up here. ...Then, I suppose I should thank you, after all.
Me: I...
What can I say in response to that? She's thanking me, but really what did I do? I stopped Lulu from becoming a killer, but in the end she's still dead with no way of returning to her life.
Me: ...don't deserve it, but I'll accept it anyway.
Charlotte: Huh? For what? Her death wasn't your fault. And if what you say is true, you did her quite a favor.
Me: If...?
Ah, right, I suppose I am asking her to believe in quite a lot all at once.
Me: ...right. I'll ask Mary and Sarah to fill you in when they get a chance. You'll see that it's all real.
Charlotte: Thanks, Ken. And tell them to come here so I can thank them in person.
Me: Okay, I think that's everything... well, everything related to you anyway.
Charlotte: ...huh?
She gives me a confused look.
Charlotte: Is there more?
Me: There just might be.
My mind flashes back to that day. The floor was painted red.
Me: I think... Sarah wasn't my only relative who was a Magical Girl.
My parents were entwined so gently, as if they hadn't both bled out.
Charlotte: Wasn't...? What do you... oh.
The day was calm and chilly, sun flying high in the sky.
Me: There was another one before her, according to Viticulture.
Mom had been sick for a while, but didn't want to see a doctor.
Me: My mom...
Maybe it was because none of them could help her.
Me: ...she was also a Magical Girl. Before she died.
By the time anyone knew what had happened, it was too late.
Me: Granted, I don't know how exactly she was involved in all this. But...
Dad had stayed home that day to be with her, and left this world alongside her.
Me: ...she was their enemy too.
Mrs. Drake says exactly what's on my mind.
Charlotte: So, they took her out too? But what about your dad?
I shake my head. He's dead too.
Charlotte: That's awful. Ken...
Me: I'm past it now.
...and I hope that's true...
Me: I'd rather nothing like that happen again. I wish there was something more I could do...
Mrs. Drake rolls her eyes at me and gets up.
Charlotte: You're doing enough just letting Sarah and Mary clean house.
Me: I know that but... I hate just sitting here uselessly.
Charlotte: Hey now, I don't think there's anything in watching over these kids. Just for that, you have to stay here too. Come here, I got a sleeping bag for you. You're on the couch, Ken!
Me: I... oh fine. I won't turn down a free roof over my head.
She leads me to her room and has me wait outside, emerging later with a sleeping bag for me and a deck of cards for us both
Charlotte: Now then, you ever play Gin Rummy? No, well, I'll show you how. It's like this...
...and so, we play cards into the night, ending my confession with an offer from her (and her volunteered friends) to aid in any investigations I might do into Viticulture on my own. We non-Magical people need to keep out of danger of course, but we can still help out in our own ways. But I can give her an answer later.
For now, I just want to rest.
It ends up getting interrupted anyway.
QM Note: No vote this time! I am cutting things off here and will return later (probably next week / early November) with the next part. Additionally, you can now spend time looking into Ken's family heirlooms. Perhaps you'll find something interesting.
Charlotte: Tried to blame me and my dear Lulu for ruining her daughter's life. Can you imagine? Not even trying to pretend that either of them felt guilty over what happened. She told me if I ever tried to retaliate against her family, I'll wish I was as dead as my 'good-for-nothing fool' daughter. She'd bury me herself, hahaha.
Yikes, so Ken's Mom was sick with an incurable disease for a while, and Viticulture just decided to kill her to speed up her death. Ever her own husband was killed as a victim due to accompanying her. And judging by what Ken described, it looks like he was the one who first found their corpses...
heads up, this one isn't threadmarked =w=;;
is there anything that can be done to fix this, or would it be a good idea to put "next chapter" at the end of 3, and "previous" at the start of 5?
Turns out it unfolds – not enough to be a true bed, but enough that I have plenty of space when I eventually get to sleep. I'm comfortable, and my dreams are peaceful, though I don't remember a single second of them. They fade from me as a white light gradually fades in and a soft voice calls out to me.
???: Mister Ken... Mister Ken... wake up Mister Ken...
The bright light outshines everything and casts my pleasant dreams into darkness... as well as the rest of the world... the world into which I awaken...
And inside this real realm that I've awoken into...
Me: Hmmm...?
...the source of the glowing light is almost in my face-!!
The shining... from a faint humanoid outline... ...!?
???: Mister Ken!!
This spectral figure... there's only one possible conclusion!
The words escape from my mouth before my good sense has time to shut me up.
Me: AHHHHHH!? A G-G-GHOST!?
I flop and fumble and fall off the couch.
Me: Ow! Agh...
The bright white light then suddenly dims down to the point where it's no longer nearly blinding me.
Rosie: ...!? M-mister Ken!? Are you okay!?
And the supposed ghost reveals herself to be none other than a horrified Rosie. Don't know why she's the one scared; the little girl nearly gave me a heart attack...!
Me: Yeah, just... give me a second... what did you even come over here for, Rosie...?
She doesn't answer, instead helping me up. The world answers for her.
My phone starts ringing, just in time for Olive, Mrs. Drake, and Goldie to barge in and see me in disarray.
Charlotte: What the heeeeeeck? What are you doing on the floor, Ken?
Olive: Rosie!? Are you okay!? What happened!? You were suddenly gone and-!
Rosie cuts her off, declaring that she's okay and that I need to answer my phone. Yeah, I know, I'm getting on it... oh, it's my niece! At... 2 A.M.!?
This has to be huge!
I pick up.
Me: Sarah, what happened!?
Sarah: Uncle!? You're still at Mrs. Drake's place, right!? Everything's okay there!?
Me: Yes, of course! Heeeeeeeck, I should be asking if you're okay. Where are you? And...
In the background behind the call, I hear both the distant sounds of a sleeping city at night and the closer sounds of Mary arguing with someone who's voice I don't recognize. Someone who's voice is also somewhat muffled, like they've been gagged.
Me: ...who's that other girl in the background? I thought this was just you and Mary.
A bitter laugh rings out from the other side as everyone else crowds in around me, even Mrs. Drake.
Sarah: I'm sure Mary would've liked that... that girl you're hearing is Rina Rossi.
Me: Huh?
That name... yeah, she mentioned someone with that name before!
Me: Then, you captured her!?
Sarah: That's right.
Me: She was in the Museum, then? But why?
Sarah: Guard duty. Now she's with us on the run. The museum is in the southern part of Alletown, so we headed north. Night now, we're camped out on a rooftop not far from the border with Dwarfpeak. Had to get away from the place once the alarms started going off. To keep it short, we found that lab, examined it as best we could, and then smashed it up.
Me: Ahh... that bad, huh?
Sarah: Human experiments bad, yeah.
Me: HUMAN EXPERIMENTS!?
I can't keep my voice down for that one. Charlotte's eyes go so wide they almost bulge out of their sockets, and Olive looks about the same. Only Rosie seems unsurprised, shivering slightly while Goldie lets out concerned barks. This is... is this what my mom was fighting against!? Did she know!? Is that why she was fighting against them!? And...
My mind is struck by lightning.
Mary...?
I shake my head. No, not now. I need to focus. Ask her later.
Me: Details. What did you get?
My niece than gives me the basics in short. Louise Blauglas and Lily Helyblanc (that name sounds familiar for some reason...) have been at this for decades – having granted themselves magical power, they then would then awaken it in others, whether voluntarily or forcefully. They've achieved a certain level of success, as evidenced by themselves and their followers. However, it's not enough, hence using the daughters of their own members on occasion as test subjects to determine if the ability can be passed on to children or not.
Results? Inconclusive!
Sarah: But we're not letting something so unnatural continue, regardless of the fact that it doesn't work.
I glance briefly at Rosie, who's eyes are still glowing softly in the otherwise dark living room.
Me: Good call. But they'll probably just rebuild if they're left alone.
Sarah: I... don't think they'll be leaving us alone, ehehe...
I nod.
Me: Right, you have Rina as a hostage.
Sarah: She's not a-!
She shuts herself up as sirens wail in the distance. No way they can hear her, but best to play it safe I suppose.
Me: If you think of another word for her, I'm all ears. But Rina is your captive, whether you like it or not. Now then, where are you going? You can't bring her here, so...
Sarah: I don't... I don't know... right now I just want to hide out somewhere. I'd be easier without Rina around, but we can't let her go and doing what Mary wanted is out of the question... and we can't go to Mary's place either! Uncle, they sent someone to her house! Check the news!
Me: Huh?
That's a surprise. I pull myself away from the pone briefly.
Me: Hey, Mrs. Drake, can you turn on the TV real quick?
Charlotte: S-sure...?
Confused, she complies. It all makes sense only moments later.
Newscaster: ...so far, police suspect that this second break-in at the Alletown Art Museum is connected to the first one, potentially the work a group of art thieves, probing the security before they make their move. ...this just in, we have received an update regarding the mysterious explosion in the South Hills. This blurry camera footage of a suspicious car driving away from the scene of the explosion has just been obtained from a nearby neighbor...
I recognize the car by its license plate. It's her! Akane came back for some reason...
No, I know the reason. This was an attempt on Mary's life! It had to be!
Olive: ... what the heck is going on...? Mister Ken, you look like you've seen a ghost!
I'm not seeing a ghost amidst the disturbed flowers in Mary's garden and that's a problem.
...I hope she's just hiding.
Sarah: Uncle...?
Right, I'm on the phone.
Me: Yeah, I see it. But they don't know to look here, so we ought to be safe. Maybe you can bring her here after all...
Sarah: I could but... uncle, are you sure?
Not in the slightest.
Me: It's not like you can stay where you are.
But she has a point – bringing Rina here may not be the smartest idea.
Me: Hmmm, I'll call Chrys and -.
-screeee...-
...
Me: ...what was that?
The commotion in the background has stopped too. Looks like we all heard it.
-screeee... screeee... screeee...-
The sound repeats, getting louder and multiplying; it's something like glass scraping on metal or concrete. It came through and Goldie is whining, being comforted by Rosie.
Mary then shouts in the back.
Mary: It's those statues! She had more in reserve! Get moving now!
Rina: H-hey, let me go-!?
Mary: Not on your life!
Sarah: Mary, wait! Uncle, I'll call you back!
Me: Hold on-!
But it's too late, she's hung up. Not good... just what the hell kind of mess has she gotten into?
Me: I have to go!
Olive and Mrs. Drake are stunned, while Rosie nods in approval and Goldie lets out a little bark.
Charlotte: Are you sure? I heard that... noise... and I told you before, there's nothing wrong with you staying here.
And while Mrs. Drake is concerned, Olive is more enraged.
Olive: That's right! You promised to keep Rosie safe! Don't run off now!
Me: I'm only running to our companions. And Rosie will stay safe, as long as she stays here. Right, Rosie?
Rosie: Yes, Mister Ken!
Me: Exactly. Now then-!?
Olive rushes in front of me before I can head out.
Olive: Hold on, you're not going anywhere without me!
Me: Yes, I am. You need to stay here with Rosie. Unlike me, you have magic power.
Olive: And that's why I need to go with you! You're defenseless on your own!
...she has a point. I won't be much help in a fight between Magical Girls. But, even if that's true, I don't want to just sit back and let Sarah and Mary handle everything. There has to be something I can do!
Me: I'll figure it out on the way there. Don't worry about me.
She worries all the while as I layer up and head out the door. And in the end...
[][Olive] ...I'm able to talk her down, so she's staying here.
[][Olive] ...she ignores me and forcefully tags along.
(By the way, is Ken armed?) [][Arms] No weapons. I won't need them, since I'm not a fighter. I'll keep away from any battles.
[][Arms] Mrs. Drake has offered me a handgun. No idea if it'll be useful, but... it wouldn't hurt.
[][Arms] Turns out some of Olive's birds are little thieves, and so I get offered a baseball bat . (requires Olive to tag along)
(Also, does Ken call in Chrys?) [][Backup?] Yes.
[][Backup?] No.
QM Note: Note that Red is watching over Rosalyn at the moment. Chrys will be armed with a gun and taser if called in.
Well, I suppose Ken can ask Chrys for help, while Olive stays behind to protect Rosie. Also, it seems like Rosie has some special power herself. The fact that she knows about what happen to Lulu, as well as showing herself as a bright light to Ken is pretty apparent of her powers.
My Vote:
[X][Olive] ...I'm able to talk her down, so she's staying here.
[X][Arms] Mrs. Drake has offered me a handgun. No idea if it'll be useful, but... it wouldn't hurt.
[X][Backup?] Yes.
Newscaster: ...so far, police suspect that this second break-in at the Alletown Art Museum is connected to the first one, potentially the work a group of art thieves, probing the security before they make their move. ...this just in, we have received an update regarding the mysterious explosion in the South Hills. This blurry camera footage of a suspicious car driving away from the scene of the explosion has just been obtained from a nearby neighbor...
I recognize the car by its license plate. It's her! Akane came back for some reason...
No, I know the reason. This was an attempt on Mary's life! It had to be!
And the plot thickens. I bet Ken must wish that he could be back cooking for the kids right now.
As for my vote…
[X][Olive] ...I'm able to talk her down, so she's staying here.
[X][Arms] Mrs. Drake has offered me a handgun. No idea if it'll be useful, but... it wouldn't hurt.
[X][Backup?] Yes.
I'm gonna need to reread soon, ngl. I've lost track of some of the plot points, and that's no good.
[x][Olive] ...I'm able to talk her down, so she's staying here.
[x][Arms] No weapons. I won't need them, since I'm not a fighter. I'll keep away from any battles.
[x][Backup?] Yes.
Don't bring a gun to a magefight.
I am wondering if we can't do something perfectly mundane that contributes to the Viticulture downfall. Let magical girls use their magic tricks, adults have other things to work with.
Winning vote: [][Olive] ...I'm able to talk her down, so she's staying here.
[][Arms] Mrs. Drake has offered me a handgun. No idea if it'll be useful, but... it wouldn't hurt.
[][Backup?] Yes.
White Rose ~Flower of Innocence~ (13)
I leave behind a fuming Olive, a passive Rosie, and a worried Mrs. Drake as I rush out of the woman's house and start heading south. In the end, even if Olive is a Magical Girl and I'm just an ordinary person, she's the kid here. I have to keep her safe. Can't let her end up like Lulu... and I have to look out for my niece and best friend too.
So, with a small gun by my side, loaded with six shots, I have to hurry!
What made that horrid scraping sound was so close to them... they might already be under attack!
Naturally, my first problem is getting to them in the first place. Not only do I not know exactly where they are, under than in Alletown somewhere, but I, uh... don't have a fast means of getting to them. No car me, buses aren't running right now, trains don't run between these two neighboring neighborhoods... right now I'm just running, running, running, hoping I can find an answer.
I can call Chrys! But who knows how long it'll take for him to get here...
...I'll call him anyway. I want backup. I'll tell him to meet me in Alletown.
And as I pick up the phone, a familiar voice interrupts me.
Red: Kentarou... something appears to be troubling you. May I be of assistance?
It's none other than Red, cloaked once more, face still covered by her red rose mask. And she's... on a red bicycle?
Wait, that's it!
Me: Red, I need that bike! It's an emergency!
Her eyes widen slightly.
Red: Emergency...?
Me: That's right! Sarah and Mary are in danger! I need to get to them immediately!
She nods and hops off the bike, gently offering it to me.
Red: Understood. Shall I join you?
Me: Ah...
Help would be nice, but... she has a job here.
Me: ...no. Stay here and keep watching over Rosalyn. Oh, and also...
I point out the Drake house.
Me: ...watch over that one too. But make sure to keep hidden! An important girl lives there, and we can't let Viticulture find her either.
Red nods and slowly walks away. I try not to think about where exactly she got this bike as I ride down the street and far away, calling Chrys as I do.
It takes multiple attempts before I get a response.
Chrys: Ken... why are y-
I cut him off.
Me: It's an emergency! I need you to get to Alletown immediately! And come armed!
I hear him nearly crash out of his bed.
Chrys: Huh!? What happened!?
Thankfully, I also hear him moving. No doubts anymore.
Me: Sarah and Mary broke into the Alletown Museum again...
Chrys: Again!?
Me: Yes, again! They found more clues and now they're being attacked by Viticulture! Someone's already gone by Mary's house, and now they're being hunted down! We need your support!
Chrys: We? You're there too?
Me: I'm on my way now!
...as long as I don't pass out from over-exerting myself first...
I hear a sigh on the other end as another voice in the background sleepily asks what the matter is.
Chrys: Nothing, Anthe go back to sleep. Anyway, Ken, I'll call again when I'm nearby.
Anthe: Huh!? Ken's calling!? Hey, don't hang up-!
Too late, call's done.
If he's driving, it shouldn't take him too long to get to Alletown from... wherever he lives.
Hopefully, we both won't get there too late.
.
.
.
Alletown is almost like its own city, even having its own dense downtown core.
In fact, it used to be independent. About 100 or so years ago, this place got annexed into Alemonowa proper, though it still maintains its own unique feel. This area's also the local Germantown, to the point where I come across bilingual signs as I bike my way across the neighborhood. Controversial, to be sure, but still here. As are signs for various historical landmarks, whether on old buildings still lingering from old days or outside new buildings that have replaced them.
Despite its age, this place is vibrant. Even this late in the night – it's almost 2:30 A.M. – there are still scattered people here and there, mostly people going to and from taverns. Thankfully for me, the locals and visitors are so immersed in their own lives that they pay me no mind.
I can hear sirens in the distance... wonder what that's about...
I also wonder just where I'm going...
Sarah never called back and I don't hear any of those odd scraping noises myself. And as for Chrys, he must still be on the wa-.
!!
Speak of the devil. There he is, calling me now. I pick up while still biking at a slow pace.
Me: Hey... I made it... in one... piece...
Anthe: ...man, you sound exhausted!
I'm out of shape, yes.
...wait, why did Anthe respond?
Me: Is your brother...?
Anthe: Yeah, he's in the car with me. Listen! Some cops are out already and looking for Mary and Sarah. We'll have to be stealthy if we want to sneak them out of here.
Me: Got it...
So, that was why I heard those sirens. Got to keep away from them.
Anthe: Gonna dump the car in a parking garage. Can you meet us outside the Heiligkreuz Tavern?
Me: Okay... see you soon...
I hang up and get moving again. I only have to struggle a little bit more...
...it'd help if I actually knew where exactly I was going. I don't come here often.
As I pull out my phone to check the address, I hear a cacophony of cawing come close and several green-eyed crows fly down around me. So, Olive will also help in her own way, huh? I appreciate it.
Me: Any of you know where the Heiligkreuz Tavern is? I need to get there.
Not even a month ago, it would have never occurred to me to ask a crow for directions (or for anything for that matter), but now I do it without hesitation. And I'm rewarded with a direct path right to where I need to go. Had to barrel through a few alleys and almost knocked down some people, but no big deal.
I'm here.
And so are Chrys and Anthe.
I'm not the only one gawking at Anthe in her pseudo-armored getup, but I get over it pretty quick. I did say there was danger, so it makes sense to come prepared. Both she and her brother are in all black, but she's also got a vest and helmet on while he's just in normal clothes. And she's excited while he's wary.
Anthe: There you are! What's going on!? Where are we going now!?
Chrys: Keep it down will ya...?
She glares at him but repeats her question in a whisper, also asking what's up with the birds. Gives me just enough time to catch my breath, ditch the bike, and lead them away from the noisy tavern to the silent streets.
Me: It's like I said on the phone. Mary and Sarah went to investigate the Alletown Museum one more time, looking for more intel. They found it, but also found danger. They have one of the Viticulture Magical Girls in tow, and they're being chased by enchanted statues.
Chrys & Anthe: ...huh?
I've confused them again.
Me: I don't know where they are right now, but they can't be far...
At this point, I would have liked to pull out my phone and make a call. In fact, my hand is in my pocket when I hear it.
"AAAAHHHHHH!!!!"
A terrible scream, and not too far away. Anthe and I have the same reaction – pulling out our guns and pivoting around, searching for the source of the noise. Chrys is more disciplined, and so takes the lead, stun and regular guns still holstered.
Chrys: It was this way. And put those down; you'll hurt someone!
Hesitantly, we do as he says and follow along, running towards a source of panic driving people back towards the tavern, towards seeming safety. Down the street and around the corner we go, running right into danger.
-screeee... screeee... screeee...-
Running right to the source of that horrid noise.
Anthe: Say, Ken... have you visited the Alletown Art Museum recently?
I might have visited as a kid, but definitely haven't been since coming back to town.
Me: No, why do you ask?
Anthe: Ah, well... Ms. Blauglas is an artist too, and one of the exhibits is of her work. She makes these really cool blue glass sculptures, but uh... some of her most recent ones are...
She doesn't need to answer. I see it for myself once we make it to the gruesome scene.
Sure, the small swarm of glass-borne creatures tearing apart that poor man aren't big, but they don't need to be. They're not much bigger than the crows following me around, and the craftsmanship on them... they have feathers too, or at least they have the appearance of feathers. But unlike the birds, those things lack proper eyes while also having long tails and sharp claws. And despite being made of glass, and thus not needing to eat, it's like they're feasting upon him, gouging out chunks of human meat with sharp teeth.
Anthe: ...she called those her Urvogels, though I'm sure you know them better by their common name: Archeopteryx.
Me: Arche... hold on, those are dinosaurs, right?
She nods.
Anthe: Yep. And she's got more of different types, too.
...
I immediately unholster my gun, as do my companions.
Chrys: One of you, call Sarah. I'll need the other one to back me up.
Me: ...I think you're going to need both of us, Chrys. Look!
Sure enough, these "Primeval Birds" have noticed us! With a sudden burst of attention, the four moving statues pull their heads out of the dead man's innards and orient themselves towards us.
-screeee... screeee... screeee...-
They look about ready to go on the attack!
(Since everyone is armed and dangerous, everyone can survive this encounter, as well as any others. But, in the course of dealing with these statues, someone is going to get injured. Who will it be?) [] Anthe, the most eager.
[] Chrys, the former skeptic.
[] Ken, your viewpoint man.
(Additionally, how aggressive should Ken be in attacking the statues? Chrys and Anthe will have to cover more for him the less aggressive he is.) [] Barely. (Ken uses up only 2 Bullets, perhaps saving the rest for other targets...)
[] Moderately. (Ken uses up 4 Bullets, leaving only two to spare just in case...)
[] Extremely. (Ken uses up all 6 Bullets, and thus hopes he won't need them later...)
QM Note: The Magical Girls, both hostile and friendly, will enter the scene in the next update.
Kentarou Kennedy
The main man and key viewpoint character. Born and raised in the city of Alemonowa by his parents Botan Kennedy and Bruno Kennedy alongside his next-door neighbor Mary Raffles. The first time his life changed was when he and Mary met as young kids. The second time his life changed was when his parents died near the end of high school. Unable to bear being in Alemonowa anymore, he fled for greener pastures, only to end up returning a few years ago after failing to make headways elsewhere. He works as a private teacher for the Calderon Family and is a fan of mystery novels. Recently, his life has changed again after deciding to investigate the deaths of students at Diamondwood High School, and subsequently learning about magic in general Magical Girls specifically. After learning that Mary was involved in that incident, as well as potentially others, he has decided he wants to know the truth. All of it. Has also learned that his mother was previously involved in magical incidents before her passing and has decided to learn what he can about that as well.
Mary Raffles
The main woman and secondary protagonist. Born and raised in Alemonowa by her mother Miss Raffles alongside her next-door neighbor Kentarou Kennedy and his parents. Has been keeping multiple secrets from a young age, one of which has been recently revealed to Ken: her status as a Magical Girl. However, the true nature of her magic, as well as her Magical Girl form, remain a secret as does the full extent of her connection with Viticulture, a group of evil Magical Girls. Would rather not have her friend Ken involved in any of this, but knows that now it's too late for that after her truly innocuous request led to him prying into murderous magical affairs. Commonly wears old-fashioned long red dresses and likes to garden. Has many assistants, such as Red and Demi. Currently working together with Sarah Kennedy to investigate and defeat Viticulture. Their relationship is somewhat tense.
Sarah Kennedy
The third member of the main trio. Born and raised in Alemonowa by her parents Sarah Kennedy and Deion Kennedy. She and her uncle Kentarou Kennedy reconnected after he returned from another city. Not long before then, she had become a Magical Girl, having been visited by the Holy Spirit of Passionflower in her sleep (or so she perceives it). Her Magical outfit consists of: a purple robe cascading down to her ankles; a purple veil; a wide-brimmed church crown adorned with spirals of purple passionflowers; a green bow-belt of thorny vines; and a white star-shaped amulet. While in her Magical Girl form, her eyes glow purple instead of remaining their usual brown. She has the power to heal with holy water and summon a holy lance. She can also make protective prayer pouches (mojos) though that is independent of her Magical Girl powers. Currently working together with Mary Raffles to investigate and defeat Viticulture. Their relationship is somewhat tense. She also works part time with her uncle while going to the University of Alemonowa.
Sapphire
(picture TBD)
An odd wolf that Mary was seen talking (?) to inside the Sunshine Park. There may be something more to him...
Red Rose Mask
(picture TBD)
A masked woman and one of Mary's assistants. Insists on keeping her true identity a secret from Ken, going by the pseudonym Red instead. Her mask and eyes are the same rose red, and matches Mary's eyes. There's definitely something more to her...
Olive Copperwood
(picture TBD)
A young girl taken under Mary's wing who also has magical powers. While she has not yet demonstrated a Magical Girl transformation, she has revealed her ability: communication with birds. Volunteered to help rescue Rosie Janvier from Viticulture and help care for her afterwards. Her parents seem to be unconcerned about where their child is...
Demi Blake
(picture TBD)
A ghostly girl, perhaps even a ghost of a girl, who lives in Mary's Flower Garden. Her eyes are the same striking red as Mary's, though she's otherwise draped in white. Perhaps also a Magical Girl? She certainly dresses like one, considering her ash gray robes adorned in white asphodel flowers.
Aster Szarvas
(picture TBD)
One of Sarah's roommates, Violet's girlfriend, and a fellow Magical Girl. While she has not revealed her Magical girl form, she has revealed her ability: she can make incense that compels others to be kind. Non-combatant, but still helps out when there's a need. Tries to see the best in others.
Violet French
(picture TBD)
One of Sarah's roommates, Aster's girlfriend, and a fellow Magical Girl. While she has not revealed her Magical girl form, she has revealed her ability: she can make incense that compels others to be honest. Non-combatant, but still helps out when there's a need. Skeptical of other's intentions.
Iris Elizabeth Calderon
(picture TBD)
Currently deceased. Suffered an untimely demise. Left behind grieving friends and family.
Lulu Drake
(picture TBD)
The main girl of the Orange Lily ~Flower of Hatred~ Route. Once a young girl living with her mother Charlotte Drake and attending Diamondwood High School with her friends Rosalyn O'Keefe and John Baker, she was murdered by Molly Knight and became a ghost thanks to the assistance of Mary Raffles. Upon her return, she exacted her revenge on Molly Knight's gang of bullies, targeting and killing 4 other students before failing to strike down Molly and Jack Dunbar, the two ringleaders, after Molly became a Magical Girl. She would later encounter Ken and Sarah after they started investigating the deaths of the four students, and would be instrumental in turning her away from killing Molly and Jack and getting her revenge in another way: exposing the two of them. Left this world once more after her success.
Charlotte Drake
(picture TBD)
Lulu's mother, still grieving two deaths in her family. Lives with her pet dog, Goldie, a good boy. Originally reached out to Ken for his services as a private teacher, only for it not to matter in the end. At least, that's what she thought before learning the full truth of what happened to her daughter and how Ken helped her find peace. She'd like to find her own peace of mind, and if that means getting rid of Viticulture, then she's more than happy to help take them out.
Rosalyn O'Keefe
(picture TBD)
One of Lulu's two friends from school. Knows about magic. Blames herself for Lulu becoming a ghost and going on a killing spree. Reconnected with Lulu just before the ghostly girl left once more. Kept under watch and not currently involved in any Magical Girl incidents.
Keelin O'Keefe
(picture TBD)
Rosalyn's mom. Not a fan of Ken. Doesn't know about magic.
John Baker
(picture TBD)
One of Lulu's two friends from school. Doesn't know about magic (?).
Jack Dunbar
(picture TBD)
One of Lulu's enemies from school. The grandson of the principal. Friends with Molly Knight and aided and abetted her schemes to bully, harass, and then kill Lulu Drake. He and his friends were a popular clique at school; of them, only he, Molly, and Tristan Boyle survived Lulu's vengeance from beyond the grave. His role in the ongoing bullying was found out and he was interrogated by Ken, with his attempt to avoid consequences fizzling out in failure. He fed Ken some information on Viticulture and has since distanced himself from the group. But he may not have a choice in his further involvement...
Molly Knight
(picture TBD)
One of Lulu's enemies from school. A top student and the main instigator of it all. Unable to accept Lulu's comparability to her ability, she tried to bully Lulu into a subservient state. When that failed, she killed Lulu. Lulu's sudden return from beyond death prompted her involvement in the world of Magical Girls with her being granted the powers of the deceased Josephine Knight. This was not enough to secure her victory thanks to Lulu's own strength and the aid of Sarah (known) and Mary (unknown). Has subsequently sworn revenge on Sarah and started developing her own magical powers.
Josephine Knight
(picture TBD)
Molly's deceased aunt, having formerly possessed the power of White Camellia. It allowed her to manipulate ice, making a characteristic silver shield and arming sword, and cloaked her in a white frilly dress looking like icy armor, accompanied by a silver tiara with a white camellia flower of ice. The tiara was the key of the transformation, and was successfully recovered after Josephine's murder and left with her family. Molly briefly used it before it was taken away by Sarah and destroyed by Mary.
Lily Helyblanc
(picture TBD)
One of the two leaders of Viticulture. Known also as the White Lily. New principal of Diamondwood High School.
Louise Blauglas
(picture TBD)
One of the two leaders of Viticulture. Known also as the Blue Cornflower. Old director of the Alletown Art Museum.
Rina Rossi
(picture TBD)
One of Louise's two assistants.
Akane Sato
(picture TBD)
One of Louise's two assistants.
There are still others...
The Calderon Family
(picture TBD)
A family formerly of five and currently of four. Consists of the mother Juno, the father Louis, the son Philip, and the younger daughter Faith. The eldest daughter, Iris, died not too long ago. Uninformed on the comings and goings of Magical Girls and their friends and foes.
Chrys & Anthe Stevens
(picture TBD)
Twins. Old and new friends. Chrys (the brother) and Ken met back in high school, but since lost contact, only recently reconnecting after a chance visit to Sunshine Park. There, Ken and Mary also met Anthe (the sister), who has taken quite a liking to Mary. She's also a fan of Magical Girls.
Rosie Janvier
(picture TBD)
The main girl of the White Rose ~Flower of Innocence~ Route. A young girl raised in captivity by Viticulture, she has since been rescued by Mary and Sarah. Currently bouncing between the custody of several adults, including Ken and Charlotte Drake. Definitely has magical powers, resulting in an eerie white glow, but to what extent? That has yet to be determined...
Jasmine Janvier
(picture TBD)
Rosie's mother. Further information on who she is and her whereabouts has not been obtained. Nor has the identity of Rosie's father.
