Heart soul and memory 3 (Revenge of the Past)

[Illven]

Episode 4 Scene 9

It's the school day before Christmas and all through the school. Not a creature is stirring, not even the teachers.

But you are. How are you going to make sure you give the perfect gift to Ophelia.


Pick your roll and explain how that roll is emblematic of you getting a gift you know Ophelia would like. +3 VP with Ophelia.

[Meriss]

Tachi approaches Ophelia a few days before the holidays​ begin. He hands the sorceress a large well wrapped package and smiles impishly. "Well darling, you were right we did see each other before Christmas. So, I have a gift for you. Now I hope you aren't going to be upset but I made you an album of us. So just in case you won't ever forget me. Here you go."

When Ophelia opens the wrapping paper she finds a leather bound photo album filled with pictures of them together. Oddly enough the camera seems to focus on Tachi more than her. Towards the end of the album the photos become much more intimate. Nothing pornographic, just sensual.


Allure: Strong Roll: +1, Total: +1
+1 if Soldier of Sin activates
+1 if Faustian Pact applies

[Esprit15]

Athena pulled another all nighter, thankfully well before the day in question, researching amnesia and treatment methods. With what little she did know of Ophelia personally, it felt right to do something pragmatic.

This is what led her to her gift, a simply wrapped, fairly average weight box that made no noise if shaken. Inside were two books. One, titled Reaching Back, was a sort of self help book that had a strong emphasis on techniques for recovering memories of one's past after amnesia. The other was soft cover, and other than a plain, mild, yellow front, was blank with light lines along the page: a journal, so that she could write down any new memories. This was explained on the inside front cover.
Skill (+1), Honor Student (+2 for researching)
Contingency Plan, unless I have used that twice, in which case Foresight (Odd)

[AvatarVecna]

Samantha did her best to keep her finger on the pulse of the student body, particularly in regards to Ophelia. Combine talking with the students and teachers of her other classes, talking with her parents, and generally just keeping close to Ophelia when she could, Sam got a decent idea of what Ophelia was interested in - quite a few, in fact. New books, some cute clothes, a few movies she'd been wanting to see (and some she wanted to see again)...oh yes this would be a wonderful gift basket.

Skill. Strong roll 1+School Queen 2+Connections 2=+5. Dazzling Display, Graceful.

Honor Student doesn't really feel appropriate, so eh.

[The TechnoGnome]

Emma had remembered what Ophelia had told her to get for Christmas, and Emma was not one to disappoint. Of course, she had never actually enchanted a book before, what with them not being her favorite form of entertainment. So it was with unaware glee that she came to school with a brown leather-bound book, damp to the touch and covered haphazardly in odd-looking symbols that even other eldritch beings might find off-putting, in a gift bag that was slowly starting to absorb the moisture that the outside of the book was constantly giving out.

"Merry Christmas!" Emma said gleefully, holding the bag up to Ophelia, "I got you what you asked for! I hope you like it!"

Strong Luck (+1), Reality Warper (+2), Faustian Pact (-2), +1 total.

[Zevox]

Alice was excited. She always loved excuses to get gifts for her friends, and Christmas was a particularly special time for it, so she always tried her best to get something great. And she thought she had something particularly special for Ophelia this year.

She’d gotten Ophelia some makeup, of course – she remembered what the girl had told her when she’d asked for gift ideas. But that alone didn’t feel special enough, so she’d shopped around the mall, looking for something that would be good for Ophelia. While wandering through racks of clothing, though, she’d tripped on a dress someone had carelessly thrown on the floor, and rolled over to what turned out to be a changing room – to find herself with a great angle looking under the door, to see Miranda inside changing. Or more accurately, stripping, for her boyfriend who was in there with her. Alice had lain there for a moment, still and quiet, both wanting to watch and fearful of being noticed.

Somehow, when she did get up and walk away quietly – deciding that she had to because even if Miranda didn’t notice her, somebody else in the store would notice her lying there – what she thought of wasn’t just the vision of beauty that was the varsity cheerleader captain, but the dress the girl had been “wearing.” It was hot, but not as openly revealing as she was used to. It was form-hugging, accentuating the girl’s curves, and looked almost satiny soft, but wasn’t too low-cut, the skirt was a modest length, and it didn’t look like a thin nightgown or anything either. Even better, it had been a beautiful purple – Ophelia’s favorite color.

It had taken over an hour of looking, but she finally found another one just like, in what she was pretty sure was Ophelia’s size. And while it had cost a pretty penny, she thought it was worth it. She couldn’t wait to see how Ophelia liked it – and hopefully, even better, see Ophelia in it.

Strong Luck +1, Accident-Prone +2, Peeping Tom +2 = +5 total.

[Illven]

Tachi approaches Ophelia a few days before the holidays​ begin. He hands the sorceress a large well wrapped package and smiles impishly. "Well darling, you were right we did see each other before Christmas. So, I have a gift for you. Now I hope you aren't going to be upset but I made you an album of us. So just in case you won't ever forget me. Here you go."

When Ophelia opens the wrapping paper she finds a leather bound photo album filled with pictures of them together. Oddly enough the camera seems to focus on Tachi more than her. Towards the end of the album the photos become much more intimate. Nothing pornographic, just sensual.


Allure: Strong Roll: +1, Total: +1
+1 if Soldier of Sin activates
+1 if Faustian Pact applies


Yeah, I wasn't sure why you thought you'd be able to skip school for a month. Ophelia replies gesturing around the halls. Darla never really said anything of the sort. She says as she sees you two. As Ophelia folds the box under her arm, Darla walks over.

"What's up, peeps. Oohhh. What's in the box?" Darla asks interested.

You'll have to ask Tachi. Ophelia grins turning to you.


Emma had remembered what Ophelia had told her to get for Christmas, and Emma was not one to disappoint. Of course, she had never actually enchanted a book before, what with them not being her favorite form of entertainment. So it was with unaware glee that she came to school with a brown leather-bound book, damp to the touch and covered haphazardly in odd-looking symbols that even other eldritch beings might find off-putting, in a gift bag that was slowly starting to absorb the moisture that the outside of the book was constantly giving out.

"Merry Christmas!" Emma said gleefully, holding the bag up to Ophelia, "I got you what you asked for! I hope you like it!"

Strong Luck (+1), Reality Warper (+2), Faustian Pact (-2), +1 total.

Ophelia takes the bag with a grimace.

Hey, Emma. She says holding the bag up to the morning light. Where did you get this?


Athena pulled another all nighter, thankfully well before the day in question, researching amnesia and treatment methods. With what little she did know of Ophelia personally, it felt right to do something pragmatic.

This is what led her to her gift, a simply wrapped, fairly average weight box that made no noise if shaken. Inside were two books. One, titled Reaching Back, was a sort of self help book that had a strong emphasis on techniques for recovering memories of one's past after amnesia. The other was soft cover, and other than a plain, mild, yellow front, was blank with light lines along the page: a journal, so that she could write down any new memories. This was explained on the inside front cover.
Skill (+1), Honor Student (+2 for researching)
Contingency Plan, unless I have used that twice, in which case Foresight (Odd)

Oh. Ophelia said seeming happy at the first book, but her face falling at the second book.

I... Uh. Kinda already have a few journals though. Ophelia replies with a shrug, her chest jiggling slightly. I appreciate the thought though. She says.


Alice was excited. She always loved excuses to get gifts for her friends, and Christmas was a particularly special time for it, so she always tried her best to get something great. And she thought she had something particularly special for Ophelia this year.

She’d gotten Ophelia some makeup, of course – she remembered what the girl had told her when she’d asked for gift ideas. But that alone didn’t feel special enough, so she’d shopped around the mall, looking for something that would be good for Ophelia. While wandering through racks of clothing, though, she’d tripped on a dress someone had carelessly thrown on the floor, and rolled over to what turned out to be a changing room – to find herself with a great angle looking under the door, to see Miranda inside changing. Or more accurately, stripping, for her boyfriend who was in there with her. Alice had lain there for a moment, still and quiet, both wanting to watch and fearful of being noticed.

Somehow, when she did get up and walk away quietly – deciding that she had to because even if Miranda didn’t notice her, somebody else in the store would notice her lying there – what she thought of wasn’t just the vision of beauty that was the varsity cheerleader captain, but the dress the girl had been “wearing.” It was hot, but not as openly revealing as she was used to. It was form-hugging, accentuating the girl’s curves, and looked almost satiny soft, but wasn’t too low-cut, the skirt was a modest length, and it didn’t look like a thin nightgown or anything either. Even better, it had been a beautiful purple – Ophelia’s favorite color.

It had taken over an hour of looking, but she finally found another one just like, in what she was pretty sure was Ophelia’s size. And while it had cost a pretty penny, she thought it was worth it. She couldn’t wait to see how Ophelia liked it – and hopefully, even better, see Ophelia in it.

Strong Luck +1, Accident-Prone +2, Peeping Tom +2 = +5 total.

Oh my god, Alice! Ophelia replied squeezing Alice tight with a hug to some interest from the few male students around. It looks beautiful, thank you so much! She said squeezing her tight.


Samantha did her best to keep her finger on the pulse of the student body, particularly in regards to Ophelia. Combine talking with the students and teachers of her other classes, talking with her parents, and generally just keeping close to Ophelia when she could, Sam got a decent idea of what Ophelia was interested in - quite a few, in fact. New books, some cute clothes, a few movies she'd been wanting to see (and some she wanted to see again)...oh yes this would be a wonderful gift basket.

Skill. Strong roll 1+School Queen 2+Connections 2=+5. Dazzling Display, Graceful.

Honor Student doesn't really feel appropriate, so eh.

Sam's fairly confident a few of the unscrupulous sorts in the school pilfered some of the almost literal train of gifts. (Damn zoning laws not allowing a railroad!) However most of the stuff gets to where it needs to go. Into and around Ophelia's arms.

Jesus Christ Sam. Did you rob a bank? I don't need all of this stuff. Ophelia replies with an amused giggle.

Oh.... Um... My parents are throwing a Christmas eve party. You're all invited. Can you make it? Ophelia replies.

[Esprit15]

"Oh... okay..." Athena says quietly, focus returning to her slice of cake. "I'm glad you at least liked part of the gift. I'm not really good at figuring out what other girls like..."

[The TechnoGnome]

Ophelia takes the bag with a grimace.

Hey, Emma. She says holding the bag up to the morning light. Where did you get this?

"I made it myself!" Emma said proudly, before noticing Ophelia's lack of enthusiasm, "You don't like it?"


Oh.... Um... My parents are throwing a Christmas eve party. You're all invited. Can you make it? Ophelia replies.

"I mean, yeah probably," Emma said, still unsure if Ophelia would want her to come after she messed up her present.

[Illven]

"Oh... okay..." Athena says quietly, focus returning to her slice of cake. "I'm glad you at least liked part of the gift. I'm not really good at figuring out what other girls like..."

It's fine. I probably should have said something. Ophelia agrees relaxing back in the chair, as Sam's busy body workers continue stacking the gifts all around the back and sides of the chair


"I made it myself!" Emma said proudly, before noticing Ophelia's lack of enthusiasm, "You don't like it?"



"I mean, yeah probably," Emma said, still unsure if Ophelia would want her to come after she messed up her present.

Ophelia puts it down on the table in front of you all.

It's not that I don't like it... It's just that every magical sense I've got is screaming that this is a cursed item.... But if you made it yourself... She says pulling the bag slightly off and edging the corner open clearly terrified.

[Esprit15]

"If you had said something, that would mean you knew what my gift was, which defeats the point."

[Illven]

"If you had said something, that would mean you knew what my gift was, which defeats the point."

Gifts aren't always a surprise. Ophelia protests cocking her head. Like I know what quite a few of these are going to be. She said gesturing over her shoulder to the three quarters wall of presents.

Really should have brought Fred today. She muses referring to the Manquein.

[Esprit15]

"You're prescient?" Athena asks.

[The TechnoGnome]

Ophelia puts it down on the table in front of you all.

It's not that I don't like it... It's just that every magical sense I've got is screaming that this is a cursed item.... But if you made it yourself... She says pulling the bag slightly off and edging the corner open clearly terrified.

"I don't curse items though, I bless them," Emma said matter-of-factly, "Your magic sense must be wrong."

The inside of the book is full of completely blank pages for writing in. Oddly enough, while the outside of the book is damp, the pages themselves are drier, though they do show signs of water damage.


"You're prescient?" Athena asks.

"No, silly," Emma said, "She just told me what she wanted, and I got it for her. It's easy."

[Illven]

"You're prescient?" Athena asks.

No. But from size and weight I can make educated guesses based on what Sam knows I like. Ophelia says grabbing one and hefting it.


"I don't curse items though, I bless them," Emma said matter-of-factly, "Your magic sense must be wrong."

The inside of the book is full of completely blank pages for writing in. Oddly enough, while the outside of the book is damp, the pages themselves are drier, though they do show signs of water damage.



"No, silly," Emma said, "She just told me what she wanted, and I got it for her. It's easy."

Also am I going to be able to write in this? Ophelia says switching the topic to the practical as she hefts the book up in the air.

[The TechnoGnome]

Also am I going to be able to write in this? Ophelia says switching the topic to the practical as she hefts the book up in the air.

"You should be able to," Emma said, "The pages are all blank!"

[Illven]

"You should be able to," Emma said, "The pages are all blank!"

But I'm worried a pencil is going to tear the waterlogged papers. Ophelia remarks backhanding the book gently.

[Esprit15]

Athena ignores the much greater interest that Ophelia takes in her friend's also blank book. "Well, we can't all be rich enough to buy the world. As for the wet pages, perhaps a soft tipped writing utensil would be better for it."

[The TechnoGnome]

"No, it should be fine," Emma said, taking the book back from Ophelia and pulling a pencil out of her bag, "Here, I'll show you."

Emma started scribbling furiously in the book, an action she quickly ceased when the book let out an ear-piercing shriek as if it was in great pain. Emma then slammed the book shut, silencing it for the moment.

"...Huh," Emma said, looking rather unperturbed by what she had created, "It's not supposed to do that."

[Meriss]

Yeah, I wasn't sure why you thought you'd be able to skip school for a month. Ophelia replies gesturing around the halls. Darla never really said anything of the sort. She says as she sees you two. As Ophelia folds the box under her arm, Darla walks over.

"What's up, peeps. Oohhh. What's in the box?" Darla asks interested.

You'll have to ask Tachi. Ophelia grins turning to you.


Tachi rolls his eyes at the sorceress. "I told you. Last time I had school it got cancelled after Thanksgiving due to depression."

The incubus almost blushes as the girls grin at him. "It's nothing special. I just went through my phone and printed some of the photos. You can open it if you like."

[Illven]

Athena ignores the much greater interest that Ophelia takes in her friend's also blank book. "Well, we can't all be rich enough to buy the world. As for the wet pages, perhaps a soft tipped writing utensil would be better for it."

You know.... I think Sam might actually be rich enough to do that. Ophelia muses.

So something like a crayon, or a charcoal pencil? She said spinning her backpack around and digging in that for the first one.


"No, it should be fine," Emma said, taking the book back from Ophelia and pulling a pencil out of her bag, "Here, I'll show you."

Emma started scribbling furiously in the book, an action she quickly ceased when the book let out an ear-piercing shriek as if it was in great pain. Emma then slammed the book shut, silencing it for the moment.

"...Huh," Emma said, looking rather unperturbed by what she had created, "It's not supposed to do that."

What did you do? Ophelia replies as a few of Sam's busy workers, and Darla literally jump away from the table.

People are going to think I'm torturing a girl if I write in this book. She states firmly to Emma, gesturing to the book.


Tachi rolls his eyes at the sorceress. "I told you. Last time I had school it got cancelled after Thanksgiving due to depression."

The incubus almost blushes as the girls grin at him. "It's nothing special. I just went through my phone and printed some of the photos. You can open it if you like."

Oh right. Seasonal affective disorder. Ophelia calls out slapping her forehead like she felt like a dunce.

How are you doing, are you okay? She leans in putting a hand on Tachi's arm comfortingly.

Darla for her part has lost interest and as started lounging on the table.

[Zevox]

Oh my god, Alice! Ophelia replied squeezing Alice tight with a hug to some interest from the few male students around. It looks beautiful, thank you so much! She said squeezing her tight.
Alice cheerfully returned the hug, and winked at one of the boys looking at them while doing so. "I'm so glad you like it!" she said. "I knew it was perfect for you the moment that I saw it."


Oh.... Um... My parents are throwing a Christmas eve party. You're all invited. Can you make it? Ophelia replies.
"Wouldn't miss it!" Alice answered quickly. Then gave a coy look to Ophelia and asked, "Will I get see you in that dress there?"

[The TechnoGnome]

What did you do? Ophelia replies as a few of Sam's busy workers, and Darla literally jump away from the table.

People are going to think I'm torturing a girl if I write in this book. She states firmly to Emma, gesturing to the book.

"I don't know! It's supposed to have infinite pages, like you wanted," Emma replied, "And I wanted it to be able to talk too, in case the next time you got amnesia you forgot how to read. I didn't write any screaming noises in there though. Maybe I can fix it."

She slowly opens the front cover of the book, and the instant the book is open an incomprehensible mix of wailing and sobbing begins. She begins erasing the scribbles, which does seem to ease the crying down to a manageable, but so far still audible level.

[Illven]

Alice cheerfully returned the hug, and winked at one of the boys looking at them while doing so. "I'm so glad you like it!" she said. "I knew it was perfect for you the moment that I saw it."


"Wouldn't miss it!" Alice answered quickly. Then gave a coy look to Ophelia and asked, "Will I get see you in that dress there?"

Ophelia not having seen the wink just smiles at Alice as the hug ends.

Of course. She replies, to which the male student Alice winked at calls over. "Can I come too?"

I... don't.... Who are you? Ophelia replies.

[Illven]

"It's supposed to have infinite pages, like you wanted," Emma replied, "And I wanted it to be able to talk too, in case the next time you got amnesia you forgot how to read. I didn't write any screaming noises in there though. Maybe I can fix it."

She slowly opens the front cover of the book, and the instant the book is open an incomprehensible mix of wailing and sobbing begins. She begins erasing the scribbles, which does seem to ease the crying down to a manageable, but so far still audible level.

This is sounding and looking more and more like we need an exorcism. Ophelia remarks, as you see one of the students talk to one of the breakfest aides.

You can't quite hear what's exactly being said, but. "Bullied, tortured, cursed." Are all coming up alot.

[Esprit15]

"I think you made the book angry. I was unaware they had feelings. Perhaps there is a dog eared page?"

[Illven]

"I think you made the book angry. I was unaware they had feelings. Perhaps there is a dog eared page?"

Maybe Emma bound some sort of water spirit to the book... But you'd think if you wanted a voice recording you'd want it to be my voice. Ophelia replies.

One of the lunch ladies walks up to the table.

"I'm sorry, we're getting alot of complaints about noise. I'm going to need to ask you to keep it down." She says sternly overlooking the book and seeming to be looking for any electronics.

[Zevox]

Ophelia not having seen the wink just smiles at Alice as the hug ends.

Of course. She replies, to which the male student Alice winked at calls over. "Can I come too?"

I... don't.... Who are you? Ophelia replies.
Alice blinked in surprise and confusion. "Good question," she agreed. She'd just been winking at the boys to show she'd noticed the looks and didn't mind - and was thinking basically the same things they were. She hadn't expected the boy to take it as an invitation. Not that she would necessarily have a problem with that, but Ophelia was another story.

[Illven]

Alice blinked in surprise and confusion. "Good question," she agreed. She'd just been winking at the boys to show she'd noticed the looks and didn't mind - and was thinking basically the same things they were. She hadn't expected the boy to take it as an invitation. Not that she would necessarily have a problem with that, but Ophelia was another story.

The boy however didn't seem to know that.

"Hello, Jon Leonard." He said extending his hand eagerly. "You." He said pointing to Ophelia. "Look familiar. I just moved, where did I see you before?" He replies.

[The TechnoGnome]

"I think you made the book angry. I was unaware they had feelings. Perhaps there is a dog eared page?"


Maybe Emma bound some sort of water spirit to the book... But you'd think if you wanted a voice recording you'd want it to be my voice. Ophelia replies.

One of the lunch ladies walks up to the table.

"I'm sorry, we're getting alot of complaints about noise. I'm going to need to ask you to keep it down." She says sternly overlooking the book and seeming to be looking for any electronics.

"I didn't bind anything to the book!" Emma said defensively, "I used only my own power and-"

She looks up at the lunch lady, then says, "Sorry, I'll be done in a second..."

She finishes her erasing job, her efforts having quieted the book down, "There, I think that's as good as I'm gonna get it. There's still some smudges, but that should be okay. I guess just don't scribble anything out, especially not with a pen."

[Zevox]

The boy however didn't seem to know that.

"Hello, Jon Leonard." He said extending his hand eagerly. "You." He said pointing to Ophelia. "Look familiar. I just moved, where did I see you before?" He replies.
Alice raised her eyebrow. Maybe that was just Jon's idea of a come-on, but if he was telling the truth, Ophelia might actually want to know. "Um, she probably doesn't remember. Kind of an amnesia thing," Alice explained, looking sympathetically at Ophelia. "You sure you don't remember?" she asked Jon.

[Illven]

"I didn't bind anything to the book!" Emma said defensively, "I used only my own power and-"

She looks up at the lunch lady, then says, "Sorry, I'll be done in a second..."

She finishes her erasing job, her efforts having quieted the book down, "There, I think that's as good as I'm gonna get it. There's still some smudges, but that should be okay. I guess just don't scribble anything out, especially not with a pen."

I'm not sure writing in it is a good idea. Ophelia admits twiddling her fingers awkwardly.

"Miss. Was the screaming from the book?" The lunch lady says looming over your shoulder.


Alice raised her eyebrow. Maybe that was just Jon's idea of a come-on, but if he was telling the truth, Ophelia might actually want to know. "Um, she probably doesn't remember. Kind of an amnesia thing," Alice explained, looking sympathetically at Ophelia. "You sure you don't remember?" she asked Jon.

"Oh... Oh ****..." Jon replies. "Like yeah.... Okay..." He replies. "I don't know where did you go to school? I want to Livercliff." He says tapping his foot as he looks to the floor biting his lip.

Livercliff? Ophelia replies her eyebrow wrinkling.

[Zevox]

"Oh... Oh ****..." Jon replies. "Like yeah.... Okay..." He replies. "I don't know where did you go to school? I want to Livercliff." He says tapping his foot as he looks to the floor biting his lip.

Livercliff? Ophelia replies her eyebrow wrinkling.
"Not ringing any bells?" Alice guessed.

[Esprit15]

"Emma got it with the express interest of it being for you. It may only want you to write in it."

[Illven]

"Not ringing any bells?" Alice guessed.

Nope, went to Everbell middle school. Ophelia replies tapping her foot on the floor now concerned.

"Hey, I didn't mean to like bug you or anything." Jon replies rubbing the back of his head.


"Emma got it with the express interest of it being for you. It may only want you to write in it."

Huh... Ophelia replies looking down and then turning to Emma. Is this true? She asked.

[The TechnoGnome]

"Emma got it with the express interest of it being for you. It may only want you to write in it."


Huh... Ophelia replies looking down and then turning to Emma. Is this true? She asked.

"Maybe?" Emma replied, holding it out towards Ophelia, "I mean, I didn't make it like that on purpose, but Athena's logic makes sense. There's an easy way to find out."


I'm not sure writing in it is a good idea. Ophelia admits twiddling her fingers awkwardly.

"Miss. Was the screaming from the book?" The lunch lady says looming over your shoulder.

"Yeah, it was," Emma said nonchalantly, "But I made it better, so it should be okay now."

[Illven]

"Maybe?" Emma replied, holding it out towards Ophelia, "I mean, I didn't make it like that on purpose, but Athena's logic makes sense. There's an easy way to find out."



"Yeah, it was," Emma said nonchalantly, "But I made it better, so it should be okay now."

The lunch lady seems about to say something.

But not before Ophelia winces, nudges the book open and starts to write in it. Hello my name is Ophelia. She writes.

What happens?

[Meriss]

Oh right. Seasonal affective disorder. Ophelia calls out slapping her forehead like she felt like a dunce.

How are you doing, are you okay? She leans in putting a hand on Tachi's arm comfortingly.

Darla for her part has lost interest and as started lounging on the table.

Tachi accepts the gesture grudgingly. "I'm actually quite well thank you dear. I meant the Great Depression."

[Illven]

Tachi accepts the gesture grudgingly. "I'm actually quite well thank you dear. I meant the Great Depression."

Oh... Oh... Ophelia replied her arm grab faltering. I look like an idiot don't I...

[Zevox]

Nope, went to Everbell middle school. Ophelia replies tapping her foot on the floor now concerned.

"Hey, I didn't mean to like bug you or anything." Jon replies rubbing the back of his head.
"Hm..." Alice said, thinking. If Jon might be able to help Ophelia remember anything, she really did want to find it. "Maybe it was someplace else? Like, on a vacation?" she suggested.

[Illven]

"Hm..." Alice said, thinking. If Jon might be able to help Ophelia remember anything, she really did want to find it. "Maybe it was someplace else? Like, on a vacation?" she suggested.

"Yeah, but if she has amnesia, is she going to remember every place she's been on vacation?" Jon points out with a shrug.

He's got a point. Ophelia remarks with a shrug which moves her chest, which catches the boy's eye.

[The TechnoGnome]

The lunch lady seems about to say something.

But not before Ophelia winces, nudges the book open and starts to write in it. Hello my name is Ophelia. She writes.

What happens?

The letters do seem to glow for a second after Ophelia is done writing, but after that nothing really happens.

"See?" Emma said, "Perfectly safe!"

I already mentioned this to Illven over Stream, but Emma is wrong. Very wrong.

Just a word of warning. :smalltongue:

[Illven]

And the dampness isn't going to contribute to mildew? Ophelia asks, closing the book and lifting it over the table to check for a wet spot on it.

[Zevox]

"Yeah, but if she has amnesia, is she going to remember every place she's been on vacation?" Jon points out with a shrug.

He's got a point. Ophelia remarks with a shrug which moves her chest, which catches the boy's eye.
Alice notices the boy's eye going to Ophelia's chest, but doesn't really think anything of it. Of course he'd look - Ophelia was hot. "Yeah, but I was hoping that maybe if he brought up someplace you've been to, it would jog your memory," she says to her friend.

[Illven]

Alice notices the boy's eye going to Ophelia's chest, but doesn't really think anything of it. Of course he'd look - Ophelia was hot. "Yeah, but I was hoping that maybe if he brought up someplace you've been to, it would jog your memory," she says to her friend.

Probably not if I don't have an attachment to it... I've been getting better, but it's not really all there yet. Ophelia admits sadly.

"Well uh. How about I give you my number and we can talk and see if we can nail this down." Jon offers hopefully.

[The TechnoGnome]

And the dampness isn't going to contribute to mildew? Ophelia asks, closing the book and lifting it over the table to check for a wet spot on it.

"Maybe?" Emma said, "I dunno. I guess just don't put it near any cloths and fabrics that aren't protected from it. I know it's not going to grow any mildew or stuff though. It has a charm similar to the one my mom put on my blanket to prevent just that."

[Zevox]

Probably not if I don't have an attachment to it... I've been getting better, but it's not really all there yet. Ophelia admits sadly.

"Well uh. How about I give you my number and we can talk and see if we can nail this down." Jon offers hopefully.
"Think it's worth a shot, Ophelia?" Alice asks.

[Illven]

"Maybe?" Emma said, "I dunno. I guess just don't put it near any cloths and fabrics that aren't protected from it. I know it's not going to grow any mildew or stuff though. It has a charm similar to the one my mom put on my blanket to prevent just that."

Your mom uses magic? Ophelia replies cocking her head as a few of the nearby students now seem much more interested.


"Think it's worth a shot, Ophelia?" Alice asks.

Yeah, sure if you think it is. Ophelia replies pulling out her phone, as the guy does the same.

[The TechnoGnome]

Your mom uses magic? Ophelia replies cocking her head as a few of the nearby students now seem much more interested.

"Sorta?" Emma said, scrunching her brow in thought, "I mean, it's technically my magic, but she can channel it from me and use it to do her own spells if she wants. All of my true worshipers can."

[Illven]

"Sorta?" Emma said, scrunching her brow in thought, "I mean, it's technically my magic, but she can channel it from me and use it to do her own spells if she wants. All of my true worshipers can."

Oh, really? Ophelia replied raising an eyebrow, as several students start moving over and now grabbing chairs.

[The TechnoGnome]

Oh, really? Ophelia replied raising an eyebrow, as several students start moving over and now grabbing chairs.

"Yeah!" Emma said, getting more excited now that more people are listening to her, "They try not to do it all the time, since pulling too much magic at once can tire me out. And how much they can actually do with it is affected by things like their distance from me, how much I have available, and things like that. But they give me power through worship, so it wouldn't be very fair if I couldn't give a portion of that power to my worshipers, especially those that deserve it. It's ultimately my power to use, but like other types of power I still have a responsibility to use what I have to help others."

[Illven]

"Yeah!" Emma said, getting more excited now that more people are listening to her, "They try not to do it all the time, since pulling too much magic at once can tire me out. And how much they can actually do with it is affected by things like their distance from me, how much I have available, and things like that. But they give me power through worship, so it wouldn't be very fair if I couldn't give a portion of that power to my worshipers, especially those that deserve it. It's ultimately my power to use, but like other types of power I still have a responsibility to use what I have to help others."

As you start mentioning restrictions, more and more of the kids swiftly lose interest.

Keep going. I'm interested. Ophelia assures you.

[Zevox]

Yeah, sure if you think it is. Ophelia replies pulling out her phone, as the guy does the same.
Alice shrugged. "It's up to you, your phone number and all. I'm just trying to help - I know how much you want to get your memories back."

[Illven]

Alice shrugged. "It's up to you, your phone number and all. I'm just trying to help - I know how much you want to get your memories back."

Ophelia throws her arm to the side hugging you close.

Which causes the guy to blush, and almost drop his phone. "So, uh, Thanks for the number." He says with a grin.

[The TechnoGnome]

As you start mentioning restrictions, more and more of the kids swiftly lose interest.

Keep going. I'm interested. Ophelia assures you.

"That's... really about it," Emma said awkwardly, "My mom can use magic because I blessed her with it, because she is a worshiper of me. It's not really her casting magic herself as much as pulling it from me and shaping it for her needs."

[Illven]

"That's... really about it," Emma said awkwardly, "My mom can use magic because I blessed her with it, because she is a worshiper of me. It's not really her casting magic herself as much as pulling it from me and shaping it for her needs."

What kinds of magic can you use. Ophelia asks leaning forward, as everyone else has lost interest.

[The TechnoGnome]

What kinds of magic can you use. Ophelia asks leaning forward, as everyone else has lost interest.

"...My magic," Emma replied, giving Ophelia an odd look, "I don't use sorceress magic or magic from runes like Yulianna. I just use my magic."

[Meriss]

Oh... Oh... Ophelia replied her arm grab faltering. I look like an idiot don't I...

Tachi gently takes Ophelia's hand and clasps it in his own. "No dear heart. You made a mistake and that's okay. You're allowed to make mistakes."

[Esprit15]

"...My magic," Emma replied, giving Ophelia an odd look, "I don't use sorceress magic or magic from runes like Yulianna. I just use my magic."

"Basic divine magic which will strengthen as she ages, I imagine. She's likely on par with an equally aged sorcerer."

[Illven]

"...My magic," Emma replied, giving Ophelia an odd look, "I don't use sorceress magic or magic from runes like Yulianna. I just use my magic."

I meant like healing. Or fire, or I guess in your case water. Ophelia clarifies slightly.


Tachi gently takes Ophelia's hand and clasps it in his own. "No dear heart. You made a mistake and that's okay. You're allowed to make mistakes."

Thanks. Ophelia says warmly, moving to hug Tachi.

[The TechnoGnome]

"Basic divine magic which will strengthen as she ages, I imagine. She's likely on par with an equally aged sorcerer."

"Yeah, that!" Emma said with a smile, "Thank you, Athena!"


I meant like healing. Or fire, or I guess in your case water. Ophelia clarifies slightly.

"OOOOOOOOhhh. Well yeah, not fire. But water, some healing, luck I think. And stuff related to sea life. And probably some more, there's a lot I can do."

[Illven]

"Basic divine magic which will strengthen as she ages, I imagine. She's likely on par with an equally aged sorcerer."

Ophelia looks at you surprised, but says nothing.


"Yeah, that!" Emma said with a smile, "Thank you, Athena!"



"OOOOOOOOhhh. Well yeah, not fire. But water, some healing, luck I think. And stuff related to sea life. And probably some more, there's a lot I can do."

We should experiment, See what you can do. Ophelia muses out loud, a finger to her lips.

[The TechnoGnome]

We should experiment, See what you can do. Ophelia muses out loud, a finger to her lips.

"I'm not sure," Emma said uncomfortably, "My parents told me that people experimenting on me or my magic is bad."

[Illven]

"I'm not sure," Emma said uncomfortably, "My parents told me that people experimenting on me or my magic is bad."

Ophelia immediately backs off.

Okay if you don't want to, that's fine. She says warmly.

[Meriss]

Thanks. Ophelia says warmly, moving to hug Tachi.

Tachi accepts the hug warmly allowing Ophelia to dictate the duration of the gesture.

[Illven]

Tachi accepts the hug warmly allowing Ophelia to dictate the duration of the gesture.

Ophelia gives you a squeeze for a few moments before letting you go.

[Illven]

Episode 3 scene 8.

Well. Now that there's a ton of wrapping paper on the floor of the cafeteria, because of Sam's present train.

You're going to have to clean it out, so as to not inter the wrath of the janitors.

Or rather Ophelia's doing it to be polite and it'd be a nice chance to impress her.

How are you helping.


Skill =Show off your ability to be neat and tidy and impress Ophelia. +3 VP with Ophelia.

(Ties give VP to all tiers)

[Zevox]

Alice tried to lend a hand - mostly. Sort of. She was actually cleaning up, at least, up until Julia showed up.

"Oh, I gave her the dress earlier! You know, the one I told you the story about," she said, wiggling her eyebrows - she'd told Julia how she'd first seen that dress, of course. "She loved it! And she's going to wear it at the Christmas Eve party tonight, too. I can't wait to see it, can you?"

Considering how everything Alice touched somehow seemed to find a way to fall out of her arms and scatter to the winds when she was trying, though, perhaps the distraction was for the best.

Weak Skill -1.

Yeah, nothing I can do on this one.

[Esprit15]

Athena simply goes about picking up paper. It was only natural to pick up before one leaves, after all.
Skill (+1)

[The TechnoGnome]

Emma tried to help, she really did. But her physical limitations on land and pampered upbringing left her ill-suited for picking paper off the floor. What's worse, the paper made it harder to get her throne around the room, limiting her mobility even further. Eventually, Emma just gave up trying to help and decided to let the mortals handle this themselves, while she watched videos of marine life on her phone.

Weak Skill (-1), -1 total.

[AvatarVecna]

Samantha did her part to help clean up the mess she was responsible for, and even managed to rope a couple guy friends into helping out (since they were planning on hanging out tonight and were eager to get onto the planned activities).

Skill. Strong roll 1+School Queen 2=+3. Graceful.

[Meriss]

Tachi looked around slightly helpless. Clean up was as about as anti chaotic as you could get. But it was an opportunity to get close to Ophelia.

"Darling you are such a sweet person."


Skill: 0; Total: 0

[Illven]

Alice tried to lend a hand - mostly. Sort of. She was actually cleaning up, at least, up until Julia showed up.

"Oh, I gave her the dress earlier! You know, the one I told you the story about," she said, wiggling her eyebrows - she'd told Julia how she'd first seen that dress, of course. "She loved it! And she's going to wear it at the Christmas Eve party tonight, too. I can't wait to see it, can you?"

Considering how everything Alice touched somehow seemed to find a way to fall out of her arms and scatter to the winds when she was trying, though, perhaps the distraction was for the best.

Weak Skill -1.

Yeah, nothing I can do on this one.

"She'll look fantastic." Juila agreed stifling a giggle behind her hands. "Might be hard to concentrate on the party." She teases wiggling hereyebrows.


Athena simply goes about picking up paper. It was only natural to pick up before one leaves, after all.
Skill (+1)

Unfortunately Athena as one person can't compete with Sam's elite cleaning team.

She's such a good leader isn't she. Ophelia replies.


Tachi looked around slightly helpless. Clean up was as about as anti chaotic as you could get. But it was an opportunity to get close to Ophelia.

"Darling you are such a sweet person."


Skill: 0; Total: 0


Really? Ophelia asked raising an eyebrow. In what way? She asked confused as to how cleaning would be considered sweet.


Emma tried to help, she really did. But her physical limitations on land and pampered upbringing left her ill-suited for picking paper off the floor. What's worse, the paper made it harder to get her throne around the room, limiting her mobility even further. Eventually, Emma just gave up trying to help and decided to let the mortals handle this themselves, while she watched videos of marine life on her phone.

Weak Skill (-1), -1 total.

"Having fun, darling?" Darla purred scrunching up to the edge of the table as she ***** her head at your laughter of marine life.


Samantha did her part to help clean up the mess she was responsible for, and even managed to rope a couple guy friends into helping out (since they were planning on hanging out tonight and were eager to get onto the planned activities).

Skill. Strong roll 1+School Queen 2=+3. Graceful.

"So I think we got everything." Michael finally replies, stretching in front of Sam.

[Zevox]

"She'll look fantastic." Juila agreed stifling a giggle behind her hands. "Might be hard to concentrate on the party." She teases wiggling hereyebrows.
Alice giggled herself at that. "Oh, I don't know. Best part of any party's the people, after all, so I think that would be concentrating on the party," she answered lightly.

[Illven]

Alice giggled herself at that. "Oh, I don't know. Best part of any party's the people, after all, so I think that would be concentrating on the party," she answered lightly.

"Well yes, I suppose you will focus on the best part of the party." Julia replied with a grin.

[Zevox]

"Well yes, I suppose you will focus on the best part of the party." Julia replied with a grin.
"Yeah," Alice said, though she suddenly looked a bit whistful. "It's just a shame Ophelia won't party quite the way I wish she would. You know, the way we do," she flirted with a grin.

[Esprit15]

"Sure. More people are naturally going to be more effective at a task," Athena says with a hint of dismissiveness, still focusing on the area that she was cleaning.

[Illven]

"Yeah," Alice said, though she suddenly looked a bit whistful. "It's just a shame Ophelia won't party quite the way I wish she would. You know, the way we do," she flirted with a grin.

"Are her parents going to be there? Maybe we could convince her." Julia replied with a grin.


"Sure. More people are naturally going to be more effective at a task," Athena says with a hint of dismissiveness, still focusing on the area that she was cleaning.

Is everything okay? Ophelia replied raising an eyebrow.

[Esprit15]

"Yes. Why would it not be?"

[Zevox]

"Are her parents going to be there? Maybe we could convince her." Julia replied with a grin.
"Probably. It's at her place, and I don't think they let her have anyone over without their permission," Alice answered. Uncertainly, she added, Besides, I don't know what it would take to convince her. I mean, the other day, when we out to LA, we were in a dark theater, and she offered to let me sit on her lap because there weren't enough seats. But even though it was dark and nobody would see us, which I thought was her problem with it before, she wouldn't try making out. And if she won't do that, I don't think she'll even consider anything else."

[Illven]

"Yes. Why would it not be?"

Eh nothing. Ophelia replies dismissing the tone of voice. So got any plans for the party? She asks sitting back down.


"Probably. It's at her place, and I don't think they let her have anyone over without their permission," Alice answered. Uncertainly, she added, Besides, I don't know what it would take to convince her. I mean, the other day, when we out to LA, we were in a dark theater, and she offered to let me sit on her lap because there weren't enough seats. But even though it was dark and nobody would see us, which I thought was her problem with it before, she wouldn't try making out. And if she won't do that, I don't think she'll even consider anything else."

"Who wouldn't want to make out with you, huh strange." Juila replies clearly confused.

[Zevox]

"Who wouldn't want to make out with you, huh strange." Juila replies clearly confused.
"Well, that wouldn't be so weird, if she didn't seem into me. But she totally does. I mean, in the theater she told me she thought I was hotter than Miranda!" Alice said, disbelief obvious in her voice at that. "But right after that she decided she didn't want to make out. It's so weird..."

[The TechnoGnome]

"Having fun, darling?" Darla purred scrunching up to the edge of the table as she ***** her head at your laughter of marine life.

Emma let out a startled squeak as the succubus spoke up.

"Y-Yeah," she stammered out, trying to collect her bearings.

Wasn't this the girl Tachi hangs out with sometimes? She's so pretty up close! Why was she talking to Emma? A good reason, she hoped.

"A-Are you here to help too?" she asked shakily.

[Esprit15]

"Not really. I'm not the host, and I don't normally go to parties."

[Illven]

"Well, that wouldn't be so weird, if she didn't seem into me. But she totally does. I mean, in the theater she told me she thought I was hotter than Miranda!" Alice said, disbelief obvious in her voice at that. "But right after that she decided she didn't want to make out. It's so weird..."

"Huh... Maybe she's worried it'd get back to her parents." Lissa muses.

[Zevox]

"Huh... Maybe she's worried it'd get back to her parents." Lissa muses.
Alice shook her head. "Nah, that doesn't make sense. We were in a dark theater, and I was already sitting in her lap, remember? No one would've seen us. And I sure wouldn't have told them."

Alice sighed, but looking back at her best friend, managed a smile. "All of which doesn't mean we can't try at the party. Just that we shouldn't get our hopes up," she said.

[Illven]

Alice shook her head. "Nah, that doesn't make sense. We were in a dark theater, and I was already sitting in her lap, remember? No one would've seen us. And I sure wouldn't have told them."

Alice sighed, but looking back at her best friend, managed a smile. "All of which doesn't mean we can't try at the party. Just that we shouldn't get our hopes up," she said.

"I'll follow your lead." Julia replied with a wink.

[Illven]

Emma let out a startled squeak as the succubus spoke up.

"Y-Yeah," she stammered out, trying to collect her bearings.

Wasn't this the girl Tachi hangs out with sometimes? She's so pretty up close! Why was she talking to Emma? A good reason, she hoped.

"A-Are you here to help too?" she asked shakily.

"Nah, I'm just here to hang." Darla replies flipping around. "Kinda what you're doing to be honest."


"Not really. I'm not the host, and I don't normally go to parties."

Well then we'll be kinda discovering the party together huh. Ophelia remarks. With me not remembering any.

[Esprit15]

"Hm, true. What's your impression so far?"

[Zevox]

"I'll follow your lead." Julia replied with a wink.
"Thanks, I'll count on it," Alice replied with a wink of her own. "And if she's still not down for anything, well, we've always got each other," she flirted, moving one hand to the small of her friend's back.

[Illven]

"Hm, true. What's your impression so far?"

Of parties? Well if it's anything like the movie nights it'll be fun. Ophelia replies happily.


"Thanks, I'll count on it," Alice replied with a wink of her own. "And if she's still not down for anything, well, we've always got each other," she flirted, moving one hand to the small of her friend's back.

"Delightfully transgressive." Julia replied with a grin.

[Esprit15]

"I suppose. I prefer smaller get-together. Too many people makes me... ill at ease..."

[Illven]

"I suppose. I prefer smaller get-together. Too many people makes me... ill at ease..."

That sounds like some social anxiety disorder. Ophelia muses out loud.

[The TechnoGnome]

"Nah, I'm just here to hang." Darla replies flipping around. "Kinda what you're doing to be honest."

"I am here to help, though!" Emma said defensively, before frowning and saying, "Or at least, I tried to. I wasn't very much help, though."

[Illven]

"I am here to help, though!" Emma said defensively, before frowning and saying, "Or at least, I tried to. I wasn't very much help, though."

"The wheelchair I'm guessing?" Darla replied cocking her head.

[Esprit15]

That sounds like some social anxiety disorder. Ophelia muses out loud.

"You are not the first to say that," Athena says, looking away and focus returning to the garbage that needed to be picked up.

[The TechnoGnome]

"The wheelchair I'm guessing?" Darla replied cocking her head.

"Yeah," Emma said, "It's not really easy for me to reach some of the pieces on the ground around my chair, and the wheels keep getting stuck on the paper."

[Illven]

"You are not the first to say that," Athena says, looking away and focus returning to the garbage that needed to be picked up.

Is it a touchy subject for you... Ophelia asks worried.


"Yeah," Emma said, "It's not really easy for me to reach some of the pieces on the ground around my chair, and the wheels keep getting stuck on the paper."

"Your room must be a nightmare huh." Darla replied warmly.

[Zevox]

"Delightfully transgressive." Julia replied with a grin.
Alice raised an eyebrow at that. "Oh no, I'm not suggesting we do anything we haven't before," she said. "Just that if Ophelia's not interested in a Christmas kiss under the mistletoe, I'm pretty sure I know someone who is." Her smile turned mischievous as she added quietly, "Or topless make-outs somewhere private, but you know, same thing."

[The TechnoGnome]

"Your room must be a nightmare huh." Darla replied warmly.

"Oh, not really," Emma said with a small laugh, "At least, I don't think it is. My room is almost completely submerged underwater, so I can swim around just fine. Much easier to me to keep neat, and I have attendants to clean the few parts above water."

[Illven]

Alice raised an eyebrow at that. "Oh no, I'm not suggesting we do anything we haven't before," she said. "Just that if Ophelia's not interested in a Christmas kiss under the mistletoe, I'm pretty sure I know someone who is." Her smile turned mischievous as she added quietly, "Or topless make-outs somewhere private, but you know, same thing."

"Tell her at least the first part is part of the season." Julia pointed out.


"Oh, not really," Emma said with a small laugh, "At least, I don't think it is. My room is almost completely submerged underwater, so I can swim around just fine. Much easier to me to keep neat, and I have attendants to clean the few parts above water."

"So wait where do you keep electronics?" Darla asks astonished.

[Zevox]

"Tell her at least the first part is part of the season." Julia pointed out.
"Well, yeah, duh. The second part was pretty much just for you - we'd need to get really lucky for Ophelia to go for that."

[Illven]

"Well, yeah, duh. The second part was pretty much just for you - we'd need to get really lucky for Ophelia to go for that."

"Well you know maybe if you ask Santa." Julia teases with a wink.

[Esprit15]

"I dislike being in social situations because I frequently have no interest in what other people talk about. I don't fit in, and attempts to do so are emotionally and intellectually draining."

[Illven]

"I dislike being in social situations because I frequently have no interest in what other people talk about. I don't fit in, and attempts to do so are emotionally and intellectually draining."

Well... I know it'll be hard for you.... But I'd really like you to be there. Ophelia admits shyly.

[Zevox]

"Well you know maybe if you ask Santa." Julia teases with a wink.
Alice giggled. "Oh, I wish! But I'm preeetty sure that's not the kind of presents Santa brings. If he does, he's been holding out on me," she joked.

[Illven]

Alice giggled. "Oh, I wish! But I'm preeetty sure that's not the kind of presents Santa brings. If he does, he's been holding out on me," she joked.

"Well maybe this year you'll have finally been a good enough girl." Juila grins.

[Esprit15]

Well... I know it'll be hard for you.... But I'd really like you to be there. Ophelia admits shyly.

"Thank you," Athena says. "It means a lot that you do."

[Illven]

"Thank you," Athena says. "It means a lot that you do."

Ophelia opens her arms for a hug.

[Esprit15]

Ophelia opens her arms for a hug.

Why was she... right, hugging... Not a fan of the act (physical contact), but also not wanting to be rude, Athena awkwardly hugs Ophelia.

[Illven]

Why was she... right, hugging... Not a fan of the act (physical contact), but also not wanting to be rude, Athena awkwardly hugs Ophelia.

When it's clear Athena doesn't want to, Ophelia lets Athena go.

Sorry. She says starting to blush.

[The TechnoGnome]

"So wait where do you keep electronics?" Darla asks astonished.

"The few electronics I do keep in there with me like my phone are waterproofed," Emma admits, "The rest is kept in an area outside the tank I can see. It's how I used to watch TV before I got a fully waterproof one last Christmas."

[Esprit15]

"It's... fine. I'm just... not a huge fan of physical contact." Not with people she was uncertain about her feelings toward, certainly. "But friends sometimes do things that make them uncomfortable, for each other."

[Illven]

"The few electronics I do keep in there with me like my phone are waterproofed," Emma admits, "The rest is kept in an area outside the tank I can see. It's how I used to watch TV before I got a fully waterproof one last Christmas."

"Water resistant, or waterproofed?" Darla asked concerned.


"It's... fine. I'm just... not a huge fan of physical contact." Not with people she was uncertain about her feelings toward, certainly. "But friends sometimes do things that make them uncomfortable, for each other."

Is there anything I can do in exchange? Ophelia offered.

[Esprit15]

"Not at this time, no."

[Illven]

"Not at this time, no."

Well if there is, let me know. Ophelia said sincerely.

[The TechnoGnome]

"Water resistant, or waterproofed?" Darla asked concerned.

"I dunno, what's the difference?" Emma asked, "Probably proofed, is my guess though."

[Illven]

"I dunno, what's the difference?" Emma asked, "Probably proofed, is my guess though."

"Well water resistant can become damaged if it's in the water for too long, or under too much pressure." Darla replies.

[Meriss]

Really? Ophelia asked raising an eyebrow. In what way? She asked confused as to how cleaning would be considered sweet.


Tachi picks up another scrap of wrapping paper and drops it in the garbage.

"Darling, most teenagers would just leave this to the janitor. Trust me."

[The TechnoGnome]

"Well water resistant can become damaged if it's in the water for too long, or under too much pressure." Darla replies.

"Oh yeah, definitely proofed then," Emma said, "My phone would have been waterlogged long ago otherwise."

[Illven]

Tachi picks up another scrap of wrapping paper and drops it in the garbage.

"Darling, most teenagers would just leave this to the janitor. Trust me."

Well that doesn't feel fair to them. Ophelia replies.


"Oh yeah, definitely proofed then," Emma said, "My phone would have been waterlogged long ago otherwise."

"That's kept in the water with you.... Or wait you mean cell phone." Darla replied.

[The TechnoGnome]

"That's kept in the water with you.... Or wait you mean cell phone." Darla replied.

"Well yeah, duh," Emma said, "What did you think I meant?"

[Illven]

"Well yeah, duh," Emma said, "What did you think I meant?"

"An old rotary." Darla admits frankly.

[The TechnoGnome]

"An old rotary." Darla admits frankly.

"What, you mean like the ones old people use?" Emma asked bluntly.

[Illven]

"What, you mean like the ones old people use?" Emma asked bluntly.

"Yes. Remember. Succubus." Darla says pointing to herself.

[The TechnoGnome]

"Yes. Remember. Succubus." Darla says pointing to herself.

"Oh yeah, you actually remember your previous incarnations," Emma said, "I wish I could do that. Then again, I guess it's weird for you to use modern technology, huh?"

[Illven]

"Oh yeah, you actually remember your previous incarnations," Emma said, "I wish I could do that. Then again, I guess it's weird for you to use modern technology, huh?"

"It is the worst." Darla whines.

[Zevox]

"Well maybe this year you'll have finally been a good enough girl." Juila grins.
"Oh, come on Jewels. You should know by now I'm definitely more naughty than nice," Alice replied - and demonstrated by casually sliding her hand down from the small of her friend's back to her butt.

[Illven]

"Oh, come on Jewels. You should know by now I'm definitely more naughty than nice," Alice replied - and demonstrated by casually sliding her hand down from the small of her friend's back to her butt.

It is at this point that a lunch aide actually comes over.

"Girls do I need to separate you?" She asks tapping her foot impatiently.

[Zevox]

It is at this point that a lunch aide actually comes over.

"Girls do I need to separate you?" She asks tapping her foot impatiently.
Alice sighed. Wow, the lunch lady was eagle-eyed today. Either that, or watching her specifically like a hawk, anyway. "No, Miss Bullhorn," she said, moving her hand away behind her back as innocently as possible.

[Meriss]

Well that doesn't feel fair to them. Ophelia replies.


Tachi nods sagely. "Like I said. Sweet."

Tachi's nose wrinkles as he frowns. "Wait, what did I miss this time? When did being sweet become a bad thing?"

[The TechnoGnome]

"It is the worst." Darla whines.

"Still, must be nice to know what you did in your past lives," Emma said, "Unless you weren't a very good person, I suppose."

[Illven]

Alice sighed. Wow, the lunch lady was eagle-eyed today. Either that, or watching her specifically like a hawk, anyway. "No, Miss Bullhorn," she said, moving her hand away behind her back as innocently as possible.

"See to it, that I don't." She replies with a stern look.


Tachi nods sagely. "Like I said. Sweet."

Tachi's nose wrinkles as he frowns. "Wait, what did I miss this time? When did being sweet become a bad thing?"

It's just you know awkward is all. Ophelia explains.


"Still, must be nice to know what you did in your past lives," Emma said, "Unless you weren't a very good person, I suppose."

"Most of the time, I was a very good person." Darla replies.

[The TechnoGnome]

"Most of the time, I was a very good person." Darla replies.

"So was I!" Emma said excitedly, "Which is why I want to remember! Being a goddess would be so much easier if I could remember how I did it before."

[Meriss]

It's just you know awkward is all. Ophelia explains.


The incubus tilts his head confused. "Awkward how?"

[Illven]

Episode 3 Scene 10

It's the last day of school before Christmas, and all through Ophelia's house. Ophelia's dolls are serving you crackers and cheese.

As the other students look at the dolls with fear and horror, Ophelia seems upset.

Why don't they like them? She asks you over the hours.


Pick your choice of roll of trying to console Ophelia, or managing to get the NPC's to accept her creepy dolls for a night. +3 VP with Ophelia.

[The TechnoGnome]

"I dunno," Emma said with a frown, "It reminds me of how people sometimes react to my followers. But your dolls don't worship you, as far as I know..."

She frowns, "Oh great, now you got me bummed out thinking about it."

Ema looks over at Tachi's old (and her own new) friend, "Daaaaaaarla, cheer us up. Please?"

Burning everything I've got left: Strong Luck (+1), Fortune Talisman (+2, Taichi), Shining Trapezehedron (+2?), +3/+5 total. Also using Shadow out of Time.

[Esprit15]

Athena, for better or worse, takes the question literally, and lucky for her, had actually been doing rather extensive reading on dolls and related topics when considering Christmas gifts for Ophelia.


"It appears that dolls, especially when animated, sit firmly in what is known as the 'uncanny valley.' This means that they appear to have most of the traits of a human such that our brain at first glance catagorizes them as human, but then doubts itself upon observation of details that are clearly not human. It is suspected that this response is tied both to our conception of attraction, as well as a sort of herd defense mechanism to notice illnesses, especially genetic ones, that leave an individual less fit. A human with incorrect features will like produce unhealthy offspring, and so would be unfit to survive.

In more laymen terms, humans find moving dolls inherently creepy due to emotionally based reasons that are based in genes from well before higher thinking was a trait of our species."
Skill (+1), Honor Student (+2)
Foresight (Odd)

[Meriss]

Tachi wrinkles his nose at the receivers of Ophelia's gift. He strides over to one of the cheerleaders. "You there, why don't you like your gift? Ophelia worked very hard on it. And you're hurting​ her feelings. Won't you at least try and say thank you? For me?"

The incubus opens his shirt and bats his eyes at the unsuspecting mortal.


Allure: Strong Roll +1; Shameless +2; Total +3
+1 if Soldier of Sin activates.

[AvatarVecna]

"I mean really, ladies," Samantha called out casually to the cheerleaders Tachi was so subtly seducing. "It's not like they're going to bite you or something. They're animated toys." She rolled her eyes and chuckled at the silliness of the other students. Still, best to lead by example, yes? She accepted some snacks from the lovely darlings Ophelia had put to work, showing her various friends that it was perfectly safe.

Skill. Strong roll 1+School Queen 2=+3.

Dazzling Display. Just As Planned (Tachi). Lord knows the dude deserves some freaking VP.

[Zevox]

Alice wrapped her arms around her friend, trying to be comforting. Mostly. She also kind of loved having the excuse to be a little touchy with Ophelia, of course, especially since the other girl looked ravishing in the dress she'd gotten her. "It's nothing big, Ophelia. I bet they're just not used to having magic stuff around like this. Give them a little time, they'll get used to it."

And if not, maybe Ophelia would get distracted by Alice. She'd worn the hottest Christmas-themed outfit she had - red with white fuzz trim santa-style, but really little more than a short midriff-baring bustier and hotpants - and had been trying all night to get her to stare. The other girl should have a great view of her cleavage during the hug, if she chose to look.

Allure, Shameless +2, Touchy-Feely +1 = +3 total.
Can't figure out a Luck roll, sadly.

[Illven]

"I dunno," Emma said with a frown, "It reminds me of how people sometimes react to my followers. But your dolls don't worship you, as far as I know..."

She frowns, "Oh great, now you got me bummed out thinking about it."

Ema looks over at Tachi's old (and her own new) friend, "Daaaaaaarla, cheer us up. Please?"

Burning everything I've got left: Strong Luck (+1), Fortune Talisman (+2, Taichi), Shining Trapezehedron (+2?), +3/+5 total. Also using Shadow out of Time.

"And what precisely do you want me to do?" Darla asks with a chuckle. "Never exactly took comedy classes." She remarks as she walks over plopping herself in your lap.


Athena, for better or worse, takes the question literally, and lucky for her, had actually been doing rather extensive reading on dolls and related topics when considering Christmas gifts for Ophelia.


"It appears that dolls, especially when animated, sit firmly in what is known as the 'uncanny valley.' This means that they appear to have most of the traits of a human such that our brain at first glance catagorizes them as human, but then doubts itself upon observation of details that are clearly not human. It is suspected that this response is tied both to our conception of attraction, as well as a sort of herd defense mechanism to notice illnesses, especially genetic ones, that leave an individual less fit. A human with incorrect features will like produce unhealthy offspring, and so would be unfit to survive.

In more laymen terms, humans find moving dolls inherently creepy due to emotionally based reasons that are based in genes from well before higher thinking was a trait of our species."
Skill (+1), Honor Student (+2)
Foresight (Odd)

"There's also the fact that she's putting chunks of her soul into the dolls." One of the smarter girls pipes up. "So forgive me if we're just a little petrified about that."


Tachi wrinkles his nose at the receivers of Ophelia's gift. He strides over to one of the cheerleaders. "You there, why don't you like your gift? Ophelia worked very hard on it. And you're hurting​ her feelings. Won't you at least try and say thank you? For me?"

The incubus opens his shirt and bats his eyes at the unsuspecting mortal.


Allure: Strong Roll +1; Shameless +2; Total +3
+1 if Soldier of Sin activates.


"Nope, nope, nope." The smarter girl replies. "I'm smarter then that!" She replies starting to get up from the couch she was sitting on.


"I mean really, ladies," Samantha called out casually to the cheerleaders Tachi was so subtly seducing. "It's not like they're going to bite you or something. They're animated toys." She rolled her eyes and chuckled at the silliness of the other students. Still, best to lead by example, yes? She accepted some snacks from the lovely darlings Ophelia had put to work, showing her various friends that it was perfectly safe.

Skill. Strong roll 1+School Queen 2=+3.

Dazzling Display. Just As Planned (Tachi). Lord knows the dude deserves some freaking VP.

"I suppose you're right..." One of the weaker willed girls replies flashing a warmer smile to Ophelia.

Thanks Sam. Ophelia replies giving Sam a close hug.


Alice wrapped her arms around her friend, trying to be comforting. Mostly. She also kind of loved having the excuse to be a little touchy with Ophelia, of course, especially since the other girl looked ravishing in the dress she'd gotten her. "It's nothing big, Ophelia. I bet they're just not used to having magic stuff around like this. Give them a little time, they'll get used to it."

And if not, maybe Ophelia would get distracted by Alice. She'd worn the hottest Christmas-themed outfit she had - red with white fuzz trim santa-style, but really little more than a short midriff-baring bustier and hotpants - and had been trying all night to get her to stare. The other girl should have a great view of her cleavage during the hug, if she chose to look.

Allure, Shameless +2, Touchy-Feely +1 = +3 total.
Can't figure out a Luck roll, sadly.

Meep! Ophelia replies her face red.

Wow, Alice you look great! She remarked.

[The TechnoGnome]

"And what precisely do you want me to do?" Darla asks with a chuckle. "Never exactly took comedy classes." She remarks as she walks over plopping herself in your lap.

"Um, I, I don't know," Emma said, suddenly getting very nervous, "You go to p-parties like this a lot, r-right?"

[Illven]

"Um, I, I don't know," Emma said, suddenly getting very nervous, "You go to p-parties like this a lot, r-right?"

"Fairly often." Darla replies lounging against Emma. "Why do you want to come with, next time?" She asks.

[The TechnoGnome]

"Fairly often." Darla replies lounging against Emma. "Why do you want to come with, next time?" She asks.

"I, I don't know," Emma stammered, "M-Maybe? You would i-invite me?"

[Illven]

"I, I don't know," Emma stammered, "M-Maybe? You would i-invite me?"

"Yeah, sure. You can come." Darla replied with a warm smile.

[Esprit15]

Athena's eyes seem to almost light up. "Is that how it works? I'm quite new to learning about magic. I assumed she simply was proficient enough to move numerous objects at once, a sort of telekinetic savant."

[Illven]

Athena's eyes seem to almost light up. "Is that how it works? I'm quite new to learning about magic. I assumed she simply was proficient enough to move numerous objects at once, a sort of telekinetic savant."

"If that was the case, they'd lose control as soon as she was out of line of sight." The girl points out. "They wouldn't be able to fetch things in different rooms so well."

[Esprit15]

"Interesting... Wait." Athena motions the other girl to a portion of the party where there were not very many people.

"Who knew Ophelia before her amnesia, besides her parents?"

[Illven]

"Interesting... Wait." Athena motions the other girl to a portion of the party where there were not very many people.

"Who knew Ophelia before her amnesia, besides her parents?"

"No. They've been getting stuff from the kitchen for us, while Ophelia's out here." The girl replies following Athena.

[Esprit15]

"No. They've been getting stuff from the kitchen for us, while Ophelia's out here." The girl replies following Athena.

"Not where are her parents, who besides her parents."

[The TechnoGnome]

"Yeah, sure. You can come." Darla replied with a warm smile.

"Th-that might be fun," Emma said, trying her best not to stare at the succubus. Man, was she attractive.

[Illven]

"Not where are her parents, who besides her parents."

"I... Probably her old school. You might be able to look it up." The girl replies with a shrug.


"Th-that might be fun," Emma said, trying her best not to stare at the succubus. Man, was she attractive.

The succubus seems to notice something off. "You doing okay?" She asks concerned.

[Esprit15]

"Ah, yes, thank you." With that, Athena heads off to find Ophelia's parents.

[Illven]

"Ah, yes, thank you." With that, Athena heads off to find Ophelia's parents.

After not that much looking but some logical thought, Athena manages to find Ophelia's parents, who are trying to make themselves scarce, but still keep an eye on the party. How does she approach them?

[Zevox]

Meep! Ophelia replies her face red.

Wow, Alice you look great! She remarked.
"Thanks!" Alice said with a grin, always happy to get that kind of reaction. "You look pretty hot yourself, gorgeous. I knew that dress would be perfect for you," she added flirtatiously.

[Esprit15]

After not that much looking but some logical thought, Athena manages to find Ophelia's parents, who are trying to make themselves scarce, but still keep an eye on the party. How does she approach them?

Athena walks right up to the parents of her host and doesn't seem to have an ounce of shame in asking about the thought that came to her.

"Excuse me sir, ma'am, but a thought just occurred to me. It may be rude to ask, but what was the accident that caused Ophelia's amnesia, and when did her sorcery awaken?"

[Illven]

"Thanks!" Alice said with a grin, always happy to get that kind of reaction. "You look pretty hot yourself, gorgeous. I knew that dress would be perfect for you," she added flirtatiously.

Well it's thanks to your good eyes. Ophelia replies. How's the party going?


Athena walks right up to the parents of her host and doesn't seem to have an ounce of shame in asking about the thought that came to her.

"Excuse me sir, ma'am, but a thought just occurred to me. It may be rude to ask, but what was the accident that caused Ophelia's amnesia, and when did her sorcery awaken?"

"Um. That's sudden all of a sudden. What's up?" Ophelia's dad remarks.

[The TechnoGnome]

The succubus seems to notice something off. "You doing okay?" She asks concerned.

"Y-Yeah," Emma said nervously, "It's just... well, unusual, for people to sit in my lap like this. Especially really pretty people like you."

[Esprit15]

"I have a hypothesis that I would like to gather information on, since testing is out of the question. She," Athena says, gesturing to the girl from earlier, "mentioned that Ophelia animates objects by putting a little bit of her soul in them, which was an unnerving thing to many of the students. I simply wondered whether overuse of this ability in the past may have caused her amnesia in the first place, or whether her ability to do so is tied to her amnesia."

[Illven]

"Y-Yeah," Emma said nervously, "It's just... well, unusual, for people to sit in my lap like this. Especially really pretty people like you."

"Oh... Is this like really forward in your culture?" Darla asks concerned. "And pretty? Does someone have a crush?" She adds with a grin.


"I have a hypothesis that I would like to gather information on, since testing is out of the question. She," Athena says, gesturing to the girl from earlier, "mentioned that Ophelia animates objects by putting a little bit of her soul in them, which was an unnerving thing to many of the students. I simply wondered whether overuse of this ability in the past may have caused her amnesia in the first place, or whether her ability to do so is tied to her amnesia."

"No. At least I don't think so for the first one. The doctors believe that it was the head trauma involved in the car accident." The mother pipes in to explain. "And she was doing so before the amnesia. She had her powers from a really early age." She explains.

[Esprit15]

"Interesting. So they could just be fearful simpletons. Have you noticed any health or mental issues since her powers developed, beyond those expected to stem from a car accident?"

[Illven]

"Interesting. So they could just be fearful simpletons. Have you noticed any health or mental issues since her powers developed, beyond those expected to stem from a car accident?"

"No, nothing at all." The father replies. "And we've been watching ever since the accident. Whatever they heard it must be wrong."

[The TechnoGnome]

"Oh... Is this like really forward in your culture?" Darla asks concerned. "And pretty? Does someone have a crush?" She adds with a grin.

"M-My culture?" Emma asked, "And I didn't mean to say that second part out loud..."

[Illven]

"M-My culture?" Emma asked, "And I didn't mean to say that second part out loud..."

"Yeah, like your religion or whatever." Darla replies. "And I still heard it."

[Esprit15]

"No, nothing at all." The father replies. "And we've been watching ever since the accident. Whatever they heard it must be wrong."

"Hm. Well, I'll have to let them know that they should not spread false information. Thank you," Athena says, before heading back to join the general festivities.

[The TechnoGnome]

"Yeah, like your religion or whatever." Darla replies. "And I still heard it."

"Oh! Well, it's never happened to me before, if that's what you're asking. I mean, I'm used to having people attend to me and carry me sometimes, but this is more... face-to-face."

[Illven]

"Hm. Well, I'll have to let them know that they should not spread false information. Thank you," Athena says, before heading back to join the general festivities.

What does Athena do at the general festivities? Go back to talk to the girls?


"Oh! Well, it's never happened to me before, if that's what you're asking. I mean, I'm used to having people attend to me and carry me sometimes, but this is more... face-to-face."

"This is as close as you've been to someone?" Darla asks seeming concerned.

[Esprit15]

Athena rejoins the girls, trying to (though rather obviously) steer conversations away from the dolls that Ophelia animates.

[Illven]

Athena rejoins the girls, trying to (though rather obviously) steer conversations away from the dolls that Ophelia animates.

The girls seem to relent on your change of topics.

"So do you think I could get this recipe from her parents?" One of the girls remarks about the mushrooms laid out.

[Esprit15]

"Yes, I assume so. Why would they not?"

[Illven]

"Yes, I assume so. Why would they not?"

"Family recipe kinda thing. That's what my dad says all the time." She replies.

[The TechnoGnome]

"This is as close as you've been to someone?" Darla asks seeming concerned.

"Yeah," Emma confirmed, "I mean, don't get me wrong, I've been held a lot before, and put on other people's laps. But this is the first time someone else has been on mine. It's... well, not unpleasant."

[Illven]

"Yeah," Emma confirmed, "I mean, don't get me wrong, I've been held a lot before, and put on other people's laps. But this is the first time someone else has been on mine. It's... well, not unpleasant."

"How many people's laps have you sat in?" Darla chuckles.

[Esprit15]

"Family recipe kinda thing. That's what my dad says all the time." She replies.

"I highly doubt her family invented the recipe. Maybe modified someone else's. Besides, you can always ask."

[Zevox]

Well it's thanks to your good eyes. Ophelia replies. How's the party going?
"As long as you're not letting people get to you about the dolls? Pretty good," Alice said. "I love all the decorations you have. Your parents really go all-out for Christmas, huh?"

In fact, she'd even spotted some mistletoe in one of the doorways - which meant she had to get a reason to have Ophelia come with her through that door sometime tonight.

[Illven]

"I highly doubt her family invented the recipe. Maybe modified someone else's. Besides, you can always ask."

"Well even the modifications, dad says makes it theirs." The girl replies. "Alexandria." She adds extending a hand to shake.


"As long as you're not letting people get to you about the dolls? Pretty good," Alice said. "I love all the decorations you have. Your parents really go all-out for Christmas, huh?"

In fact, she'd even spotted some mistletoe in one of the doorways - which meant she had to get a reason to have Ophelia come with her through that door sometime tonight.

It's so strange... Why are people so petrified of them? Ophelia replied.

[Esprit15]

"Then modify their recipe to make it your own," Athena replies, likely missing the point. She does return to the handshake, though. "Interesting, another Greek name. Athena."

[Illven]

"Then modify their recipe to make it your own," Athena replies, likely missing the point. She does return to the handshake, though. "Interesting, another Greek name. Athena."

"I thought the library was in Egypt?" She remarks confused.

[Esprit15]

"I thought the library was in Egypt?" She remarks confused.

"Yes, named for Alexander the Third of Macedon, when Greece was conquering the area, until his death in Babylon. Alexandria is the feminine form of Alexandros, meaning 'defender of men.'"

[Illven]

"Yes, named for Alexander the Third of Macedon, when Greece was conquering the area, until his death in Babylon. Alexandria is the feminine form of Alexandros, meaning 'defender of men.'"

"Oh? So why didn't they revert the name when he died?" Alexandria asked.

[Esprit15]

"Oh? So why didn't they revert the name when he died?" Alexandria asked.

"He founded it," Athena says simply. "The city existed for around a housand years before it was no longer in Greek or Byzantine hands. Evidently nobody was interested in changing the name by the time it was taken."

[The TechnoGnome]

"How many people's laps have you sat in?" Darla chuckles.

"Several," Emma said, "My parents', Ophelia's, a few of my older attendants... mostly it happened when I was smaller. Well, except for Ophelia, of course, I only met her a few months ago."

[Illven]

"He founded it," Athena says simply. "The city existed for around a housand years before it was no longer in Greek or Byzantine hands. Evidently nobody was interested in changing the name by the time it was taken."

"Huh. Every other nation changes names at the drop of a hat." Alexandria muses.


"Several," Emma said, "My parents', Ophelia's, a few of my older attendants... mostly it happened when I was smaller. Well, except for Ophelia, of course, I only met her a few months ago."

"Well now you now how you get to do it so frequently." Darla replies

[Esprit15]

"I imagine there is a certain level of pride in saying that one's city has existed longer than many countries. That fact can be obfuscated by city name changes, such as with Istanbul. It also matters when the culture of the populace changes, which didn't really happen under Alexander."

[Illven]

"I imagine there is a certain level of pride in saying that one's city has existed longer than many countries. That fact can be obfuscated by city name changes, such as with Istanbul. It also matters when the culture of the populace changes, which didn't really happen under Alexander."

"While that would work for governors you'd think like the pharaoh would force a change." Alexandria replied.

[The TechnoGnome]

"Well now you now how you get to do it so frequently." Darla replies

"Not really," Emma said, "I mean I can't really just walk over to someone and put myself on their lap like you did. It only worked with Ophelia because she was partially submerged at the time."

"So why did you decide to do this?" Emma asked, "It's not like I commanded you to do this or anything."

[Illven]

"Not really," Emma said, "I mean I can't really just walk over to someone and put myself on their lap like you did. It only worked with Ophelia because she was partially submerged at the time."

"So why did you decide to do this?" Emma asked, "It's not like I commanded you to do this or anything."

"I'm touchy-feely with friends." Darla replies.

[Esprit15]

"While that would work for governors you'd think like the pharaoh would force a change." Alexandria replied.

"Considering that the Greek leadership were basically treated as pharaohs and the last native pharaoh, Nectanebo the Second, had fled the country before Alexander was even in power, much less during his military campaign, I don't think their say had much relevance. Not to mention that again, the city was in either Greek, Roman, or Byzantine hands until the Muslim conquests in the 600's. Remember that this was a city comparable to Rome in its influence on Hellenistic culture. The great lighthouse, the library, the necropolis, all of these things were in that city."

[Meriss]

"Nope, nope, nope." The smarter girl replies. "I'm smarter then that!" She replies starting to get up from the couch she was sitting on.


Tachi looks perplexed by this. Was he losing his touch? He pouts as Sam and Ophelia hug.

"I suppose someone will tell me they're afraid of me next. I mean. I am a literal demon."

He turns back to the cheerleaders. He raises his hands and opens his mouth to show off his pointed teeth. "Hiss!" he says. It's more pathetic than anything.

[The TechnoGnome]

"I'm touchy-feely with friends." Darla replies.

"You see me as a friend?"

[Illven]

"Considering that the Greek leadership were basically treated as pharaohs and the last native pharaoh, Nectanebo the Second, had fled the country before Alexander was even in power, much less during his military campaign, I don't think their say had much relevance. Not to mention that again, the city was in either Greek, Roman, or Byzantine hands until the Muslim conquests in the 600's. Remember that this was a city comparable to Rome in its influence on Hellenistic culture. The great lighthouse, the library, the necropolis, all of these things were in that city."

"Huh. I thought Pharaohs had to be Ra descended." Alexandria muses.


Tachi looks perplexed by this. Was he losing his touch? He pouts as Sam and Ophelia hug.

"I suppose someone will tell me they're afraid of me next. I mean. I am a literal demon."

He turns back to the cheerleaders. He raises his hands and opens his mouth to show off his pointed teeth. "Hiss!" he says. It's more pathetic than anything.

[Make a conflict check.]


"You see me as a friend?"

"Of course, you seem a sweet girl." Darla smiles.

[Esprit15]

Athena shrugs. "He took on the title. Besides, maybe his own bloodline was enough to keep them convinced that Ra or not, he and his line had the power to lead."

[Illven]

Athena shrugs. "He took on the title. Besides, maybe his own bloodline was enough to keep them convinced that Ra or not, he and his line had the power to lead."

"And thus no one felt that they could oppose him?" Alexandria asked.

[Zevox]

It's so strange... Why are people so petrified of them? Ophelia replied.
Alice suppressed a sigh. She'd been trying to get Ophelia's mind off that topic. "Eh, thye're just not used to them," she said, trying to reassure her friend. "I mean, they are kind of weird when you first see them. They'll get used to them, just like the rest of us did."

"More importantly, how are you liking Christmas and the party?" she asked. "I mean, it must be at least kind of cool getting to see it all like it was new, right? Have any favorite part yet?"

[Esprit15]

"And thus no one felt that they could oppose him?" Alexandria asked.

"Since the Romans basically incorperated the Greeks as they expanded and existed in one form or another until the end of the Byzantines in the 1400's... yeah, and many tried. Between Alexander and the Ottoman Turks taking over is around eighteen hundred years of rule. Granted, territory shifted, but I'd say they had a fairly solid grip on the western world for a respectable portion of said region's history. Granted, the bloodline likely diluted. After all, from my understanding it was primarily European style witches that were in charge of Byzantium, so clearly there was some shift in power."

[Illven]

Alice suppressed a sigh. She'd been trying to get Ophelia's mind off that topic. "Eh, thye're just not used to them," she said, trying to reassure her friend. "I mean, they are kind of weird when you first see them. They'll get used to them, just like the rest of us did."

"More importantly, how are you liking Christmas and the party?" she asked. "I mean, it must be at least kind of cool getting to see it all like it was new, right? Have any favorite part yet?"

You thought they were weird? Ophelia latches on.


"Since the Romans basically incorperated the Greeks as they expanded and existed in one form or another until the end of the Byzantines in the 1400's... yeah, and many tried. Between Alexander and the Ottoman Turks taking over is around eighteen hundred years of rule. Granted, territory shifted, but I'd say they had a fairly solid grip on the western world for a respectable portion of said region's history. Granted, the bloodline likely diluted. After all, from my understanding it was primarily European style witches that were in charge of Byzantium, so clearly there was some shift in power."

"Witches were the emperors and empress of Byzantium?" Alexandria questioned.

[Zevox]

You thought they were weird? Ophelia latches on.
Alice frowned. "Well, yeah. I mean, most of us can't do magic and all, so it's not every day you see dolls just walking around on their own like that," she pointed out.

[Illven]

Alice frowned. "Well, yeah. I mean, most of us can't do magic and all, so it's not every day you see dolls just walking around on their own like that," she pointed out.

But if I healed you would you think that was weird? Ophelia questions.

[Zevox]

But if I healed you would you think that was weird? Ophelia questions.
"Well, no, but I've never known you without you being a sorceress," Alice pointed out. "Dolls I've seen a lot of, and they don't normally move on their own, you know?"

[The TechnoGnome]

"Of course, you seem a sweet girl." Darla smiles.

"That is true," Emma said with a nod, "And you seem nice too, at least from what I know of you. And Tachi's a good person, so if he likes you that's good enough for me!"

[Illven]

"Well, no, but I've never known you without you being a sorceress," Alice pointed out. "Dolls I've seen a lot of, and they don't normally move on their own, you know?"

Ophelia opens her mouth.

Okay. Okay, that's fair. She relents.


"That is true," Emma said with a nod, "And you seem nice too, at least from what I know of you. And Tachi's a good person, so if he likes you that's good enough for me!"

"Tachi good." Darla replies starting to laugh.

[Esprit15]

"It's a hypothesis. It would explain Greek fire remaining so well guarded a secret for as long as it was. If it were simple chemistry, it would have likely been reverse engineered by an enemy, but magical secrets are a lot easier to hide out in the open. Combine that with it being a guarded family secret even within the empire, and it is a plausible explanation. As they lost power and the empire collapsed, the secret was then carried around the world and later resurfaced among several Wiccan families and may have been the initial basis for napalm.

But like I said, it's largely hypothesis. Because of similarities between humans and witches compared to other eldritch beings, it's often difficult to figure out where they were when they intermixed with human civilizations."

[Illven]

"It's a hypothesis. It would explain Greek fire remaining so well guarded a secret for as long as it was. If it were simple chemistry, it would have likely been reverse engineered by an enemy, but magical secrets are a lot easier to hide out in the open. Combine that with it being a guarded family secret even within the empire, and it is a plausible explanation. As they lost power and the empire collapsed, the secret was then carried around the world and later resurfaced among several Wiccan families and may have been the initial basis for napalm.

But like I said, it's largely hypothesis. Because of similarities between humans and witches compared to other eldritch beings, it's often difficult to figure out where they were when they intermixed with human civilizations."

"Wouldn't they need a witch on every ship with greek fire to utilize it?" Alexandria replies.

[Esprit15]

"Wouldn't they need a witch on every ship with greek fire to utilize it?" Alexandria replies.

"Possibly. I'm not sure how it stores. But you only need one per boat, and they were more useful for shock and awe, rather than combat efficacy."

[Illven]

"Possibly. I'm not sure how it stores. But you only need one per boat, and they were more useful for shock and awe, rather than combat efficacy."

"Really? I always thought fire and wood. Welp." Alexandria replied surprised.

[Esprit15]

"Really? I always thought fire and wood. Welp." Alexandria replied surprised.

"The fire wasn't the main issue, though it was part of it. Range is the problem. Plus, there are plenty of ways to treat wood so that it resists catching fire. Combined with being on the sea, and it is more terrifying to the crew and lowers moral, rather than actually being a weapon in its own right."

[The TechnoGnome]

"Tachi good." Darla replies starting to laugh.

"What's so funny?" Emma asked.

[Illven]

"The fire wasn't the main issue, though it was part of it. Range is the problem. Plus, there are plenty of ways to treat wood so that it resists catching fire. Combined with being on the sea, and it is more terrifying to the crew and lowers moral, rather than actually being a weapon in its own right."

"There are, did they know of any back then?" Alexandria remarks.


"What's so funny?" Emma asked.

"Tachi a good person, that's a good one." Darla replies still laughing.

[Zevox]

Ophelia opens her mouth.

Okay. Okay, that's fair. She relents.
Alice nodded. "Right? You've just got to keep in mind what people are used to, that's all."

"So, how's the party going for you?" she asked, trying to get the topic moving in that direction again.

[Illven]

Alice nodded. "Right? You've just got to keep in mind what people are used to, that's all."

"So, how's the party going for you?" she asked, trying to get the topic moving in that direction again.

Everyone seems to be having alot of fun. And they all seem to want my attention. It's nice and all. But I don't know how Sam does it. Ophelia comments showing a little fatigue as she smiles.

[Esprit15]

"Some, yes. It was also ineffective in a strong wind, which is common in sea battles. As soon as a ship was out of range of a siphon, they were safe. Also, it still required fuel, unlike a basic ram. It was a tool to be used tactically, not something that made their navies invincible."

[The TechnoGnome]

"Tachi a good person, that's a good one." Darla replies still laughing.

"He is!" Emma said with an angry pout, "You're like, his best friend. Why would you not think he's a good person?"

[Illven]

"Some, yes. It was also ineffective in a strong wind, which is common in sea battles. As soon as a ship was out of range of a siphon, they were safe. Also, it still required fuel, unlike a basic ram. It was a tool to be used tactically, not something that made their navies invincible."

"Even if they caught fire beforehand they were safe?" Alexandria comments.


"He is!" Emma said with an angry pout, "You're like, his best friend. Why would you not think he's a good person?"

"I'm not saying he's a bad person, he's just not a good one." Darla remarks. "Plus he's fun to be around."

[Esprit15]

"No, they worked in proper conditions. It's just that ramming boats was easier than getting close enough when there was no wind while carrying the fuel. It scared people, which was what it was really good for. It was more useful as an early grenade, but that gets back to needing to have witches specifically using it, so it never saw widespread use. Anyways, that's a bit of a diversion from where we started.

By the way, would you mind encouraging people to leave Ophelia alone in regards to the dolls?"

[Illven]

"No, they worked in proper conditions. It's just that ramming boats was easier than getting close enough when there was no wind while carrying the fuel. It scared people, which was what it was really good for. It was more useful as an early grenade, but that gets back to needing to have witches specifically using it, so it never saw widespread use. Anyways, that's a bit of a diversion from where we started.

By the way, would you mind encouraging people to leave Ophelia alone in regards to the dolls?"

"Oh yeah, sure..... Do you think they are the ones cooking?" Alexandria remarked.

[Zevox]

Everyone seems to be having alot of fun. And they all seem to want my attention. It's nice and all. But I don't know how Sam does it. Ophelia comments showing a little fatigue as she smiles.
Alice nodded. "But it's fun, right?" she asked with a smile. "I mean, people like you - you're popular! That's never a bad thing," she said.

[Illven]

Alice nodded. "But it's fun, right?" she asked with a smile. "I mean, people like you - you're popular! That's never a bad thing," she said.

Oh yeah, it is. It's just exhausting. Ophelia remarks.

[Zevox]

Oh yeah, it is. It's just exhausting. Ophelia remarks.
"Well, look at the party as a chance to relax and unwind, then," Alice said with a smile. "So, tell me: what is your favorite part about Christmas so far?"

[Illven]

"Well, look at the party as a chance to relax and unwind, then," Alice said with a smile. "So, tell me: what is your favorite part about Christmas so far?"

The gingerbread houses. Ophelia replies.

[Meriss]

[Make a conflict check]


[Conflict: [roll0]]

[Illven]

Episode 5 Scene 1

With the Christmas party over, and New Year's eve happened, Ophelia ended up throwing a smaller party. Just her close friends, and of course her parents, for New years.

As the ball drops. You all know it's common for couples to kiss, and well you aren't a couple with Ophelia yet....

But how are you going to convince Ophelia to throw caution to the wind.


Allure =d9 Be your very charming self for Ophelia. +3 Vp with Ophelia.

[Zevox]

Alice had gone all-out on her outfit for Ophelia's New Year's Eve party, determined to have the sorceress looking at no one but her all night. In fact, she'd brought a couple changes of clothes, just in case Ophelia's parents noticed her and insisted she change. Above the waist she was wearing nothing but a fishnet top over a strapless, lacy black bra, while below she wore a pair of skinny jeans. She knew Ophelia liked her chest and intended to emphasize it in full.

Earlier in the night she'd made sure to tell Ophelia about how it was normal to share a kiss with someone at the stroke of midnight on New Year's, and not-subtly hinted that she'd be very happy to be the one she did that with. So as midnight approached she'd been stuck to her friend like glue, her arms wrapped around one of Ophelia's. "Almost time..." she whispered in a sultry tone, watching Ophelia's expression for any sign of interest and eying her lips hopefully.

Allure, Shameless +2, Touchy-Feely +1, Thaw Out +2 = +5 total.
Thaw Out on scene 1/3.

[The TechnoGnome]

Emma came to the party, but not alone. Despite Ophelia's intention on the party being only for her close friends, Emma arrived with a small entourage of her worshippers, including her father and mother, all dressed in ceremonial robes.

"I'm sorry if we're too loud," she whispered to Ophelia as her dad started leading an 'Exhalation Service' in front of another worshiper with a camera, "I'm supposed to be leading a ceremony to usher in the New Year, and this is the best compromise I could come up with. We're live-streaming it to everyone else so they can follow along, but I'm going to need to go between them and you guys until it's over."

"Our Emerald Maiden!" High Priest Edwards suddenly interjects, "Come, tell us what the New Year will hold for your followers!"

"Uh oh, gotta go!" Emma said, putting a gold laurel on her head, "Hey, I have an idea! Come with me."

She pulls Ophelia up in front of the camera, then says, "Everyone, this is my friend Ophelia! Say hi!"

"Greetings, Ophelia!" the followers present chant in unison.

"Now, I've got big plans going forward into the New Year! I want to spread my love to a bunch of new people, and make allies outside of our faith! While that might sound odd to some of you, remember what we learned years before: I cannot force people to worship me, especially if I want to be a good goddess. But we can show everyone that you guys aren't dangerous or creepy, and that we deserve to be recognized as a real religion, instead of just some cult! So give thanks for that!"

"Praise be!" the followers chant, "We are not a cult!"

"Good! But don't think all of my attention in the coming year will be focused on external matters. I want to deal with issues concerning you all as well! Like continuing the cleansing sessions for those who still need them, and increasing the educational standards for our community, and finally catching those jerks who keep stealing our gates!"

"Let there be Divine Retribution for the Gate Thieves!" the followers chant.

"I'll also be going over all of the requests you will be writing down at home tomorrow morning. I'm sorry again for not being there to hear them in person this year, but I am so thankful to have such understanding followers as you! Seriously, you guys are the best!"

Emma hears the countdown starting, and says, "Oh, everyone! It's almost time! Be sure to show appreciation to your loved ones for this coming year! I brought my friend Ophelia here because this is the first New Year's celebration she can remember, so I want it to be special! And in the New Year's tradition of everyone in general, I will be bestowing my New Year's blessing on her with a kiss!"

Emma looks over at Ophelia, suddenly looking more nervous than she had in front of the camera, "I-If you want it, that is. I, uh... didn't really think that part through until just now."

Allure, Maiden's Garb (+2), Mandate of the Emerald Maiden if failed.

[Esprit15]

Athena, unfortunately, does not make much of a positive impression at the beginning of the party. Showing up fairly late didn't help much, and her attitude upon coming in was surprisingly emotional, if not frustrated. "That infernal machine!" she shouts as her mother drives away. "Five hours! Five hours that father and I spent working to restore everything to working order! All because some imbecile behind us last night did not understand that when there is water on a road surface, coefficients of static friction grow very close to zero, and that coefficients of kinetic friction, barring chemical action, are going to be even lower! But no, why would someone understand basic physics! It's not like it's a necessary skill when learning to drive that every human being with basic cognitive function should possess anyways!" Indeed, her appearance suggests that, while she since changed clothes for the party, she didn't have the time to bathe or otherwise clean the various greases and oils off of her face and arms. Two large, grey smears are visible on her face, and her hair even is still tied back to keep out of her face when she was working.

***

As the evening goes on, Athena quickly finds herself regretting her outburst at the beginning of the party as the others all surround the object of her... was it affection? No, it couldn't be. She was a pleasure to be around, but that alone does not mean that those feelings need be affection... Focus. She was interested in further studying the other girl. Nothing more. Still, she should make some gesture of restitution to her host, given her behavior earlier.

"Um... Ophelia? I just wanted to... apologize, for the scene that I created on arrival. It was unprofessional, and rude, to bring the problems of my day to your dwelling when that was not the reason I was invited."
Yeah, I can't make that check with Allure (-1)

[AvatarVecna]

Samantha did her best to keep nearby, but was busy keeping up with all her friends, and couldn't really dedicate time to Ophelia.

Neutral Allure, +0 total. Can't justify both Connections and School Queen to myself, and that's the only way I'm making this one. Best of luck to Alice though.

[Meriss]

Tachi was in his element, flitting here and there like a humming bird. He paused only briefly to chat with Ophelia.

"Now remember darling. New Year's Eve is all about new beginnings. So please don't be disappointed if I fall flat on my face after midnight. The spiritual energy is just a bit much for me. But, before I do could you please consider me for your midnight kiss."

The incubus purrs seductively in the sorceresses ear. His frilly navy blue silk shirt let's the girl see, well everything.


Allure: Strong Roll +1, Shameless +2, Temptation +2; Total: 5
+1 if Soldier of Sin activates.
Faustian Pact on Athena.

[Illven]

Samantha did her best to keep nearby, but was busy keeping up with all her friends, and couldn't really dedicate time to Ophelia.

Neutral Allure, +0 total. Can't justify both Connections and School Queen to myself, and that's the only way I'm making this one. Best of luck to Alice though.

That's when Sam gets a text from a few of her friends.

"Pay attention to us!" What does she do?


Athena, unfortunately, does not make much of a positive impression at the beginning of the party. Showing up fairly late didn't help much, and her attitude upon coming in was surprisingly emotional, if not frustrated. "That infernal machine!" she shouts as her mother drives away. "Five hours! Five hours that father and I spent working to restore everything to working order! All because some imbecile behind us last night did not understand that when there is water on a road surface, coefficients of static friction grow very close to zero, and that coefficients of kinetic friction, barring chemical action, are going to be even lower! But no, why would someone understand basic physics! It's not like it's a necessary skill when learning to drive that every human being with basic cognitive function should possess anyways!" Indeed, her appearance suggests that, while she since changed clothes for the party, she didn't have the time to bathe or otherwise clean the various greases and oils off of her face and arms. Two large, grey smears are visible on her face, and her hair even is still tied back to keep out of her face when she was working.

***

As the evening goes on, Athena quickly finds herself regretting her outburst at the beginning of the party as the others all surround the object of her... was it affection? No, it couldn't be. She was a pleasure to be around, but that alone does not mean that those feelings need be affection... Focus. She was interested in further studying the other girl. Nothing more. Still, she should make some gesture of restitution to her host, given her behavior earlier.

"Um... Ophelia? I just wanted to... apologize, for the scene that I created on arrival. It was unprofessional, and rude, to bring the problems of my day to your dwelling when that was not the reason I was invited."
Yeah, I can't make that check with Allure (-1)

I'm surprised your parents didn't tell you to clean up earlier. Like I understand having you help out early, but eventually shouldn't they have told you to get ready for the party. Ophelia comments.


Tachi was in his element, flitting here and there like a humming bird. He paused only briefly to chat with Ophelia.

"Now remember darling. New Year's Eve is all about new beginnings. So please don't be disappointed if I fall flat on my face after midnight. The spiritual energy is just a bit much for me. But, before I do could you please consider me for your midnight kiss."

The incubus purrs seductively in the sorceresses ear. His frilly navy blue silk shirt let's the girl see, well everything.


Allure: Strong Roll +1, Shameless +2, Temptation +2; Total: 5
+1 if Soldier of Sin activates.
Faustian Pact on Athena


Ta...tachi... Ophelia says clearly tempted but pushing you away. My parents are right here. She points out with a jerk of her head.


Emma came to the party, but not alone. Despite Ophelia's intention on the party being only for her close friends, Emma arrived with a small entourage of her worshippers, including her father and mother, all dressed in ceremonial robes.

"I'm sorry if we're too loud," she whispered to Ophelia as her dad started leading an 'Exhalation Service' in front of another worshiper with a camera, "I'm supposed to be leading a ceremony to usher in the New Year, and this is the best compromise I could come up with. We're live-streaming it to everyone else so they can follow along, but I'm going to need to go between them and you guys until it's over."

"Our Emerald Maiden!" High Priest Edwards suddenly interjects, "Come, tell us what the New Year will hold for your followers!"

"Uh oh, gotta go!" Emma said, putting a gold laurel on her head, "Hey, I have an idea! Come with me."

She pulls Ophelia up in front of the camera, then says, "Everyone, this is my friend Ophelia! Say hi!"

"Greetings, Ophelia!" the followers present chant in unison.

"Now, I've got big plans going forward into the New Year! I want to spread my love to a bunch of new people, and make allies outside of our faith! While that might sound odd to some of you, remember what we learned years before: I cannot force people to worship me, especially if I want to be a good goddess. But we can show everyone that you guys aren't dangerous or creepy, and that we deserve to be recognized as a real religion, instead of just some cult! So give thanks for that!"

"Praise be!" the followers chant, "We are not a cult!"

"Good! But don't think all of my attention in the coming year will be focused on external matters. I want to deal with issues concerning you all as well! Like continuing the cleansing sessions for those who still need them, and increasing the educational standards for our community, and finally catching those jerks who keep stealing our gates!"

"Let there be Divine Retribution for the Gate Thieves!" the followers chant.

"I'll also be going over all of the requests you will be writing down at home tomorrow morning. I'm sorry again for not being there to hear them in person this year, but I am so thankful to have such understanding followers as you! Seriously, you guys are the best!"

Emma hears the countdown starting, and says, "Oh, everyone! It's almost time! Be sure to show appreciation to your loved ones for this coming year! I brought my friend Ophelia here because this is the first New Year's celebration she can remember, so I want it to be special! And in the New Year's tradition of everyone in general, I will be bestowing my New Year's blessing on her with a kiss!"

Emma looks over at Ophelia, suddenly looking more nervous than she had in front of the camera, "I-If you want it, that is. I, uh... didn't really think that part through until just now."

Allure, Maiden's Garb (+2), Mandate of the Emerald Maiden if failed.

Ophelia red in the face, kisses you on the lips.

Seriously Emma...? She whispers as she does so.


Alice had gone all-out on her outfit for Ophelia's New Year's Eve party, determined to have the sorceress looking at no one but her all night. In fact, she'd brought a couple changes of clothes, just in case Ophelia's parents noticed her and insisted she change. Above the waist she was wearing nothing but a fishnet top over a strapless, lacy black bra, while below she wore a pair of skinny jeans. She knew Ophelia liked her chest and intended to emphasize it in full.

Earlier in the night she'd made sure to tell Ophelia about how it was normal to share a kiss with someone at the stroke of midnight on New Year's, and not-subtly hinted that she'd be very happy to be the one she did that with. So as midnight approached she'd been stuck to her friend like glue, her arms wrapped around one of Ophelia's. "Almost time..." she whispered in a sultry tone, watching Ophelia's expression for any sign of interest and eying her lips hopefully.

Allure, Shameless +2, Touchy-Feely +1, Thaw Out +2 = +5 total.
Thaw Out on scene 1/3.

Ophelia mesmirized by Alice's natural charm plants a kiss on her as soon as she gets back from Emma.

You look fantastic. She mumbled warmly.

[Esprit15]

Did she seriously not notice? "Ophelia, I was already an hour late. Taking the time to do all of that would have likely made it another hour." More if her mother had anything to say about it. "At that point, there would have been little point in going."

[Illven]

Did she seriously not notice? "Ophelia, I was already an hour late. Taking the time to do all of that would have likely made it another hour." More if her mother had anything to say about it. "At that point, there would have been little point in going."

No. No. I meant. Was your aid in repairs so vital that they needed you? Ophelia commented.

[Esprit15]

No. No. I meant. Was your aid in repairs so vital that they needed you? Ophelia commented.

Athena looks at Ophelia like she had asked the girl to float three feet off the ground. "Yes. Between two of us, the repair time was more than halved. My father would still be working on the vehicle right now if I had abandoned him. He ought to be able to enjoy New Years Eve with my mother, after all, and she needs to be able to get to work tomorrow, so it couldn't exactly wait."

[Illven]

Athena looks at Ophelia like she had asked the girl to float three feet off the ground. "Yes. Between two of us, the repair time was more than halved. My father would still be working on the vehicle right now if I had abandoned him. He ought to be able to enjoy New Years Eve with my mother, after all, and she needs to be able to get to work tomorrow, so it couldn't exactly wait."

Ah, that was what I was missing, my apologies. Ophelia says curtsying slightly.

[Esprit15]

Athena forces a smile, nodding. "So, how's the rest of your night been?"

[Meriss]

Ta...tachi... Ophelia says clearly tempted but pushing you away. My parents are right here. She points out with a jerk of her head.


Tachi smiles impishly at Ophelia. "And my mother is right behind them. You don't see me objecting, do you?"

Tachi's smile fades and his brow wrinkles as the sorceress kisses the girls. "Darling, if you weren't interested in boys, all you had to do was say so. I'm old, but I'm hardly Mrs Grundy."

[Zevox]

Ophelia mesmirized by Alice's natural charm plants a kiss on her as soon as she gets back from Emma.

You look fantastic. She mumbled warmly.
Alice barely resisted the temptation to try and push the kiss further than Ophelia's peck. She was happy even getting that, but mainly because Ophelia had been so hesitant to go even this far before. She really wished she could get the other girl to actually make out with her.

But Ophelia wasn't ready for that yet, she guessed. Baby steps. "I thought you'd like it," she purred happily, wrapping one arm around Ophelia's waist. "Happy New Year."

[Illven]

Athena forces a smile, nodding. "So, how's the rest of your night been?"

Pretty good. Alot less stressful now that there's less people. Ophelia replied.


Tachi smiles impishly at Ophelia. "And my mother is right behind them. You don't see me objecting, do you?"

Tachi's smile fades and his brow wrinkles as the sorceress kisses the girls. "Darling, if you weren't interested in boys, all you had to do was say so. I'm old, but I'm hardly Mrs Grundy."

... Well... Emma... I don't know... I just felt.... abit pressured you know. I like both... Ophelia replied.


Alice barely resisted the temptation to try and push the kiss further than Ophelia's peck. She was happy even getting that, but mainly because Ophelia had been so hesitant to go even this far before. She really wished she could get the other girl to actually make out with her.

But Ophelia wasn't ready for that yet, she guessed. Baby steps. "I thought you'd like it," she purred happily, wrapping one arm around Ophelia's waist. "Happy New Year."

Happy New year Alice. Here's to a whole new year of exciting new objects.

[Esprit15]

"Yeah, I can imagine..." Athena says, sighing a little. She had noticed, earlier with some of the girls, and something about it felt... painful. Should she bother to even say? ...no, not unless pried. "Yeah, I'm not a huge fan of crowds either," she adds with an awkward laugh.

[Zevox]

Happy New year Alice. Here's to a whole new year of exciting new objects.
Alice raised an eyebrow at that. "'Exciting new objects?'" she echoed questioningly, sounding amused at the odd wording.

[Illven]

"Yeah, I can imagine..." Athena says, sighing a little. She had noticed, earlier with some of the girls, and something about it felt... painful. Should she bother to even say? ...no, not unless pried. "Yeah, I'm not a huge fan of crowds either," she adds with an awkward laugh.

Especially when it's put on a show please. Like when you're the host. Ophelia replied.

[Illven]

Alice raised an eyebrow at that. "'Exciting new objects?'" she echoed questioningly, sounding amused at the odd wording.

Sorry. All new outfits I meant. Ophelia replied facepalming.

[Zevox]

Sorry. All new outfits I meant. Ophelia replied facepalming.
Alice giggled. "That's okay. And I'm with you - especially if it means I get to see you in a few of them," she responded flirtatiously.

[Illven]

Alice giggled. "That's okay. And I'm with you - especially if it means I get to see you in a few of them," she responded flirtatiously.

I will certainly give it a try. Ophelia promised.

[Esprit15]

Especially when it's put on a show please. Like when you're the host. Ophelia replied.

Athena chuckles, honestly this time. "Why do you think I don't host parties?"

[The TechnoGnome]

Ophelia red in the face, kisses you on the lips.

Seriously Emma...? She whispers as she does so.

Emma kissed back, channeling her magical blessing into Ophelia as she did so. The blessing didn't always work as she intended, but it usually did. Though she didn't usually kiss the receiver on the lips. It felt... nice.

Her cultists cheered as the two kissed, some more enthusiastically than others. In particular, her parents actually looked a bit conflicted for a few moments during the kiss itself, but shook it off before the others noticed.

"Sorry," Emma whispered back as the kiss ended, "I just got caught up in the celebration and the ceremony, and... I didn't really think about whether you wanted a blessing from a goddess you didn't worship. I know some religious people have problems with that, and I don't know what your parents are like."

[Illven]

Athena chuckles, honestly this time. "Why do you think I don't host parties?"

Really. Never? Not even birthdays? Ophelia remarked.


Emma kissed back, channeling her magical blessing into Ophelia as she did so. The blessing didn't always work as she intended, but it usually did. Though she didn't usually kiss the receiver on the lips. It felt... nice.

Her cultists cheered as the two kissed, some more enthusiastically than others. In particular, her parents actually looked a bit conflicted for a few moments during the kiss itself, but shook it off before the others noticed.

"Sorry," Emma whispered back as the kiss ended, "I just got caught up in the celebration and the ceremony, and... I didn't really think about whether you wanted a blessing from a goddess you didn't worship. I know some religious people have problems with that, and I don't know what your parents are like."

No the kiss. Ophelia remarked.

[The TechnoGnome]

No the kiss. Ophelia remarked.

"Oh, did I not do it right?" Emma asked.

[Esprit15]

"I haven't had anyone to invite until very recently," Athena says simply.

[Illven]

"Oh, did I not do it right?" Emma asked.

You... you kinda pressured me into doing it. Ophelia replied.


"I haven't had anyone to invite until very recently," Athena says simply.

And you never invited cousins or the like? Ophelia replied.

[The TechnoGnome]

You... you kinda pressured me into doing it. Ophelia replied.

"What?" Emma said with a frown, "I mean, I know I should have asked if it was okay sooner, but I did ask. You could have said no, I didn't order you to do it."

[Illven]

"What?" Emma said with a frown, "I mean, I know I should have asked if it was okay sooner, but I did ask. You could have said no, I didn't order you to do it."

Yeah... But I didn't want to disappoint you in front of all your followers...