realmofstories | Chapter 03: Act II

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Chapter 03: Act II

The Little Mermaid: Act II—

With all tasks completed and pearls collected, the Aspects are given a brief respite to heal any wounds and rest. But as night falls and the crystals begin to dim, all fall into a deep sleep and share a dream of the story that's beginning to unfold before them.

While the Little Mermaid was nervous about her trials, with the help of her grandmother she is able to succeed to clamp the oysters on her tail. Still curious about the humans, she chances a trip to the surface and happens upon a large ship holding a party. But a sudden storm causes the ship to capsize, forcing a man—the prince himself—to dive into the water. Not wishing for him to die, she quickly swims to him and tries to bring him to shore. It is no easy task due to his weight and the dangers attracted by the commotion, but they make it, the prince losing consciousness soon after.

When he awakens, the prince finds himself washed up onto the shore with no recollection of how he got there. He is quickly found by a lovely priestess and together the two of them begin an arduous climb from the beach up to the castle, learning about each other as they go.

Meanwhile, the little mermaid can't stop thinking about her prince, and wishes for a way to be with him despite the barriers between them. She travels to the sea witch to ask for a spell that would allow her to join the prince on land. However, after being told of the high costs of going onto land—including never seeing her family again, or never remembering them even if she did—the little mermaid decides to stay underwater...and bring the prince to her, at the cost of half her lifespan. The deal set, the two of them brew a potion that would bring the prince to the sea...

However, there would be more challenges awaiting for the mermaid princess. In the following days, the priestess is revealed to be a princess of a nearby kingdom. Delighted by the news, the prince's parents—the king and queen—host a grand ball in her honor. There is also hope that their son may fancy the princess, as a marriage between the two would be beneficial indeed. The princess already has interest in the prince, though be it romantic or something else is still unclear...

The dream fades with the lingering question of what the mermaid will do and who will end up winning the prince's heart. When the Aspects awaken, they will find themselves no longer in the ocean but in the castle itself and dressed to fit the new environment. No longer mermaids, they are now nobles, servants, or musicians and the grand ball is already underway. With the full moon hanging high overhead and clear, starry night skies, it's perfect for a romantic start of this Act. This time special marked doors indicate where those cast for specific scenes need to go.

Of course, danger still lurks outside the castle walls. There are whispers of pirates lurking nearby and the days ahead will be filled with secret trysts and clashes. The Aspects will also find that they are still able to transform into mermaids upon entering the ocean, but will not be affected while on land. Rooms and accommodations within the castle have also been prepared so that they may rest when needed. Rest that may be necessary for the challenges ahead.

§ instructions.

The second Act is underway! This is the designated log for all Main Scenes. Others are free to create their own top levels for the Sub Quests, which are detailed below. Each Main Scene has their own unique top level and those cast into the roles are to thread their scene under each. All scene instructions are provided in the top levels.

As a reminder, although this Act is primarily on land, characters can still transform into their merforms upon entering the ocean. As implied in the above narrative, they will only transform in the ocean. So feel free to finally take a bath, everyone!

Finally, just to be clear, characters who are in Main Scenes are not immediately dropped in to their location and will have to enter certain doors to travel to the "setting location" and then return. Threading all of that isn't necessary, but it's to help give a better idea that characters can take a break between scenes or wait a bit to help with other things like the Sub Quests.

Feel free to refer to the Game Notes for more detailed info as well as ask questions or clarifications.

§ sub quests.

Everyone is free to participate in the Sub Quests. There are no specific top levels, so you're free to incorporate them however you wish in your own top level.

¶ I. Attending the Ball. Pretty much exactly on the tin, and this is mainly for the first scene. Players can decide whether their character is just some random noble forced to dance on the floor or one of the servants, like catering or musician. It's possible for characters to switch it up if they want, and really they can do whatever. In addition to general attendance, there are some Erasers lurking around. Not many, but some "pest control" may be required.

¶ II. Trimming the Maze. The garden maze is a mess of rotting and withered hedges with danger lurking around every corner. Beware the "living" plant sculptures and the erasers. Characters can walk through it just for fun, but they will also be requested in both eliminating threats as well as trying to restore the maze. To help it flourish, singing or humming songs from the depths of one's heart will help the flowers and bushes grow. Playing musical instruments found scattered around will also help aid in the repair. There are also more traditional means with standard gardening equipment, fertilizer, fresh seeds, and some potted plants if anyone prefers that.

¶ III. Beach Cleanup. There is a lot of broken glass and trash scattered all over the beach and within the waters. Apparently the nobles who attended the party are just slobs. Help clear up the beach and deal with any rogue blots or Erasers. Beware of random pirates that may try to attack as well as other sea creatures that may try to attack. Care should taken around any particularly shiny shells as they are actually explosive to the touch.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[Surprise, he actually knows how to dance thanks to actually needing to learn. When one has a noble family as their master, knowing how to dance to blend in even when on a kind of "security detail" is necessary. But he only knows the basic ballroom ones and the waltz is an easy one to remember, no matter how long it's really been since he last danced.

But Rokurou is watching her like a hawk. He knows very well that if pushes too much he really will get stabbed by those heels in some way or another, and he's not exactly too keen on it. So he won't push too much more... But it's hard to not notice that blush returning. He's never seen her like this, so he can't help but be amused.]

Yeah, this is definitely more your style. Definitely not something poofy like I had. [A light chuckle.]

I'm guessing it's been a while for you since you last worn one. Or dance.

[A light smirk as he sends her out for a well-timed spin before pulling her back.]

[ "For the job" is the kind of answer she expects from anyone in the Rangetsu family when it comes to anything outside of fighting. It's just good that one of them really knows how because Velvet certainly only knows simple steps when it comes to dancing. Following someone's lead is much easier.

Her eyes close briefly before they open again and fix themselves on his face in return. Also he doesn't need to be watching her that closely! Look away already. ]

I have to wonder if the red dress picked out was done just for you. [ Though Velvet couldn't tear her eyes from the color. ]

Hm, Niko was the last person who convinced me to wear a dress. It was a lot more simple tha this one. Even longer since I danced.

[ lakdjfoij! Good thing she is quick on her feet otherwise Velvet would have stumbled through that spin. ]

[But why would he look away from such a lovely lady who commanded him to dance with her?]

What, because I'm the Huntsman for Red? Or because red is part of my style, anyway? [He does use quite a lot of it even back home.

Wait. Velvet. Were you having naughty Wolf thoughts back then—

But do not worry, if she had stumbled he would have caught her! Just like he does now, holding her just a little closer than before and leaning down a bit towards her. Intentional or just a result of the spin? Who's to say...]

I wouldn't say you should wear them more often, but I can't say I dislike what I see right now.

[Just a wolfish grin before he pulls back to resume dancing.]

[ She said "dance" not "stare at my face like there's something wrong with it". ]

A little of both. If it was more about your style, it would have had other colors thrown in. [ Not as if Velvet is much better with her color choices.

Truthfully, she may have been wondering what he would taste like...

Were Velvet a different kind of girl, she would lean back to avoid the closeness of their faces but she doesn't back down. Even in this kind of situation. So there's no distance put between them. Also, WHAT THE HELL IS WITH THAT STATEMENT? ]

What would you do if I willingly put on a dress?

[ Die from shock? She may want to see that. ]

[Well, she is blushing a lot and he's not dumb enough to do the "Does she have a fever???" cliché. So yes, there is something wrong with it. Velvet he knows does not blush.

As for his actions—really he probably wouldn't be as "heavyhanded," but he did have several glasses of wine. Even so, he's being deliberate, more or less seeing what kind of reaction he'd get.

But willingly put on a dress, huh?]

Drop my drink if I was holding one. [Grins.] But I'd have to wonder if you were trying to plot something or going out for some special occasion. Not saying I'd never expect you in one, but... Can't say it's much of a normal style for you to just randomly choose.

[ Rokurou better get a good look because who knows when this will happen again? Even if somehow he manages to be the one person who catches it. Right now she's thankful he wasn't around when she was making the deal with the Sea Witch. And that said Sea Witch won't tell anyone about it either.

Better not let her find out or he might end up with a punch to the gut -- for starters. Right now Velvet is just accepting this as him being a bit drunk.

Technically she would be plotting something if she did willingly put on a dress. So he's not wrong there. ]

Dresses are inconvient, especially when hunting or fighting. You're right, I don't have much reason to wear one normally.

Exactly. Just like you wouldn't normally see me wearing a suit—or dress. These kind of occasions would probably be it.

[Just a bit of a pointed look before he looks at her a little more thoughtful.]

So. Is that why you wanted to dance?

[If that seems like a sudden question—it is.]

Maybe you should reconsider. You don't look half-bad in a dress and I dare say you look handsome in a suit.

[ Part compliment, part teasing because she can't resist. She could say something about how the Storyteller mistook his regular outfit for a dress and that might be why he keeps ending up in princess roles but...

Somehow Velvet expected he'd get around to asking. ]

Partially. This may be the only opportunity I have to dance at a ball. I figured that I might as well make the most of it. [ She smiles faintly. ]

Ah, but if I always wore something fancy like this then it would lose its charm.

[Just a light, teasing grin in return. He will take that compliment, thank you.

There's just a low, thoughtful hum at her answer, allowing a few steps of silence before he responds.]

Had a feeling it would be like that. But you know most of the people are inside, right? Or have you already danced with everyone and I'm the only one left?

[More teasing.]

You don't have to always wear something like this. I'm not sure it would suit your daily Huntsman lifestyle.

[ No sense getting a fancy outfit all dirty by traipsing around the woods killing animals.

She scoffs at his question. ]

More like you're the only one I wanted to dance with.

[ Said in a completely serious tone. ]

Probably not, but unlike a dress it wouldn't really hinder me all that much.

[It has pants. That's the important part.

But he is going to actually be surprised at her answer, and he stares at her with raised brows.]

...Seriously? Why?

[Not even Eizen?]

You moved fairly well in a dress when we were climbing mattresses.

[ She agrees that having pants or at least shorts is much better.

Rokurou may be shocked to realize that there are several reasons. Some of which may be expected answers like only having one witness if she messes up, or that she doesn't trust Eizen's curse to not act up and turn the whole thing into a disaster. ]

I'm more comfortable being close to you.

[ Velvet kept physically distant to most of the group and didn't like it when others invaded her personal space. It's just different with Rokurou somehow. ]

After I pretty much slashed it to bits.

[With no regrets. ...Honestly he also ruined this other dress once they were out. Kaguya's remained because it was at least not a real dress and more similar to what he was used to.

But uh. ...Uh...? Again he's silent for a few steps, uncertain as to how to think about this.]

...Huh. May I ask why?

[He's not sure if he'll actually get an answer, and really it doesn't matter to him that much either way, but... Coming from Velvet, he can't help but be a little curious.]

Still...

[ Velvet wanders away from the conversation about dresses and clothing. Mostly because Rokurou asks a question that she's been asking herself for a while.

It doesn't quite have a satisfying answer in her own mind. ]

I don't know. Maybe it's because you're safe, you've always been safe. Never once did I worry about hurting you or corrupting you like I did with others. You've been capable of stopping me if necessary, if I lashed out accidentally. Maybe it's because our story here says that you're supposed to kill me when I start devouring innocent people. Or it could just be because you're so damn noble even for a daemon. You know when to respect the boundaries I set and when to cross the excessive demands I make.

[ Or maybe it's because of some reason Velvet hasn't come close to thinking up yet. Something she'd never consider under normal circumstances... or unusual ones. ]

Edited 2019-08-20 07:37 (UTC)

[And once again, he finds himself a bit speechless because of all of that? Isn't what he expected at all. Granted, he hadn't been sure what to expect to begin with, but... How is he supposed to think of all that??

By now his steps had slowed to the point where they're just standing there with him staring down at her a little wide-eyed as he tries to process this. Some of it makes it sense—they've been through a lot together, and he was there from the beginning (well, at least from the break out in Titania) to her end. He's seen it all, been beside her through thick and thin. Watched her grow, seen her fall and rise again. And she's done the same to him. If he had to be honest, he feels fairly comfortable around her as well. True, that's not really difficult for anyone, but even after all the time spent apart, they just clicked like none of it had passed at all.

But... Even if she had many reasons, the first thing she called him was "safe." An establishment of trust. Coming from someone like Velvet, that's actually pretty meaningful.

While not exactly flustered, Rokurou is clearly feeling a bit... Odd? Awkward? And eventually there's a small, half laugh.]

For once I have no idea what to say. Never thought you'd think of me like that.

[ Trust is a good word to use. While to some extent Velvet trusts everyone of their group, there are two she trusts more than the rest. At the same time, it's about who she trusts herself around. Rokurou is the only one who fits in both categories.

The others might be strong enough to take her on but being around them puts her a bit on edge. Waiting for her daemonic nature to hurt them in some way. Considering she's capable of devouring other daemons, Rokurou shouldn't be someone she can relax around and yet he is. While she may not show him every part of her, he's seen a great deal of it. Seeing more every day they're here together. Invading her personal space without hesitation and Velvet lets him.

She doesn't just let people do that. Not easily. Somewhere along the way, either he managed to get that close without her noticing or Velvet did. Possibly a mix of both. Maybe it's because the barrier of his debt has been lifted between them.

Velvet is aware that they've stopped dancing completely and he's definitely staring at her like she just grew a second daemon arm. ]

Don't say anything. Just take it for what it is.

[By now th music has faded to an end, so small blessings. Or perhaps not as without the background noise the outdoor silence is a little more profound.

He stares down at her for a moment more before his expression softens a little, the awkward grin relaxing a bit.]

All right, I'll do just that. But just to confirm things... If you ever need anything, you can always call on me. Things may be different now, but at least that much hasn't changed.

[And then his smile turns a little more teasing as he lifts the hand holding hers.]

Even if it's for a dance.

[ Miracles, they managed to make it through most of a song without hurting the other - on accident or purpose.

Velvet uses the hand resting on his shoulder to give it a couple of pats. He didn't really need to say that because for a war daemon (and the Huntsman to the Red Riding Hood story), Rokurou is a helpful guy. A dependable friend. ]

I know, idiot.

[ There's no bite to her words at all and even a smile to go with them. She allows another short minute to pass between them before her golden gaze slides over his shoulder. ]

Now how about we deal with our uninvited guests? [ Nothing to finish a night at the ball off with than a fight with some Erasers. ]

[Probably going to be one of the rare few time. Clearly this is a moment that must be treasured.

He just chuckles a little.]

Just saying the feeling's mutual.

[And catching her gaze he just let's out a long sigh.]

Guess I should give them some credit. They waited for us this long. But man, just as I was thinking about asking you for another dance.

[Another grin as his own eyes gaze past Velvet to a few dark shadows that had been lurking on the walls, shadows he had long since noticed but didn't pay much mind to. But now they just had to go and ruin the mood—or improve it. It is these two, after all.]

Need a sword or you good?

[ He can look back on it later as much as he wants. It's not as if he's drunk enough to forget the moment.

A glance back at him. ]

Is that so?

[ That's a rhetorical question. Mostly. ]

They are extremely polite while crashing the party, we'll have to extend our hospitality. Consider this our second dance.

[ They both know they'll enjoy this just as much as a regular dance, possibly more. Velvet takes a single step to the right, not turning around but focusing on the Erasers behind Rokurou - knowing he'll protect her back. She pulls a dagger from under the ruffles on her dress. Not her usual weapon but a girl has to make do. ]

I've got it covered.

[Rokurou is just going to watch as he pulls out that dagger from beneath her dress. He knows that's a common thing to do, his own female relatives employing the technique often, but still. ...Where does it fit—

Anyway.

He'll take a mirroring step to the left as he also focuses on the one behind her, unsheathing the sword that had been at his back.]

In that case, let's dance.

[A light smirk as his daemon eye gleams beneath his hair, and as if on cue, a rather spirited orchestral piece resounds from within the ballroom and the Erasers take the first move to launch their attack.]

[ A woman is never fully dressed without a weapon... or something. As for where she kept it hidden, she'll never tell. Rokurou will have to suffer not knowing for a while longer.

What perfect timing for the music to pick back up and such a lively tune to accompany their fight. She rushes the Eraser that thinks it can get the better of them, delivering a swift kick to one and sending it flying back. ]

I'll be leading this dance.

[ Velvet throws her dagger at the second one to prevent it from getting by her. ]

[He'll find out one day. Or suffer and learn it firsthand with his current luck.]

Hah! [He can't help laugh as he drives his blade into one before spinning and unsheathing his second blade in time to parry the claws of another before slashing it away.] Not sure if they'll be able to keep up.

Edited 2019-08-20 21:15 (UTC)

[ Hope he's ready to feel the point of the dagger in his stomach if he learns firsthand.

Velvet's left arm transforms and looks similar enough to her regular daemon one. Claws rake down the one she kicked away, dealing it heavy damage. ]

These are the worst dance partners I've ever had.

[Meant more that he'll have to figure it out the next time he's stuck in a dress. Velvet, teach him your ways.]

Yeah,can't say mine are all that great either.

[As more suddenly jump up from beneath the terrace onto the railing to try and surround them, Rokurou hops back closer to her and holds out his hand, a smirk forming.]

Should we show them how it's done?

[You know, with a nice, deadly "spin."]

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