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popculturebuffet · 3 years

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The Owl House Reviewcaps: Through the Looking Glass Ruins or Be Gus Do Crimes

Hello All You Happy People! And welcome back to my Owl House coverage.. man i’ts been a hectic.. few hours. Yeah since I was on vacation I didn’t get around to the last review till right before watching today’s episode. And if you came for Lumity.. oh boy oh boy are you going to get it with this week in ways i’ll get into under the cut. Needless to say this is the most Lumity episode yet. We also get a lot of my boy gus in a sequel to an episode I never saw because god insists on punishing me for my episode skipping hubris. So join me under the cut for a full review/recap of this episode.

We open.. with Gus dispondent and Luz coming by to comfort him/explain the scene that was clearly cut out of this episode for time to the audience: Gus was trying to help Willow with some Pixies, strong like Bill Bixby, but his illusions only pissed them off more and they took it out on Willow who got a wholloping. So now he feels bad and feels bad his illusions aren’t enough. Luz comforts him and tells him it’ll be fine by tommorow. Cue Gus waking up tommorow and cue our theme song.

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Anyways Gus is in a funk and lying on his bed depressed starring at the ceiling.... when did Gus become a younger me? Anyways Willow calls but Gus lets it go to his inbox, and we get to see his answering video message, which is the best answering message since....

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And Gus used that for his last message. His current one is having a VERY reluctant king introduce him as Gus The Illusion Master. Willow is calling because Gus sent some get well soon illusions that are projecting his overcompesating for feeling he got hurt she politley wants dispelled which makes him feel worse. He summons and destroys them of course but he feels extra super duper shitty.

So Luz comes by.. to transparently butter him up to use his library card. Yeah apparently she’s been doing this a lot, having now fully realized she has feelings for Amity and AMity has feelings for her and Gus has clearly been their buffer for a while. I’m sure Willow would react with just as much suprise if she could move her face right now.

But this time Luz just dosen’t need his card to woo a lady, she needs it to look up the human Gwendy mentioned last episode. Frankly Gus probably would’ve agreed anyway: he pray for death but death won’t come anywhere.

Gus is questioning being an illusion witch. It’s not that he’s not good at it, he’s fan fucking tastic... it’s just with it not being able to MAKE things, he feels he’s less in comparison to other witches and wants to branch out. While Luz is all for trying new stuff, it’s why she choose “all of them” for her magic major, she gets his reason for doing so isn’t healthy. As if to prove Gus’ lack of self worth right, my faviorite extra nearly gets ran over by a thing. If your wondering who that is.. you clearly didn’t see the image up top but as a refresher it’s this lil guy:

Yes Braxas, that adorable little kid with the fangs made for eating throats and with the voice of an demon that just swallowed several angels. I loved the kid just from design but his adorable scene with Amity clinched it for me. So naturally him getting anothe rmajor scene being adorable and saved by three well meaning teens from Glandus High made my fucking week, which was pretty good honestly. And to sweeten the pot we meet his dad!

They are so fucking cute.. and terrifying.. but also cutteeeee. Just look at them, LOOK AT THEMMMM. I love them both so much. I just want a spinoff abotu them, their domestic adventures, the sheep they clearly eat whole to steal their sheepy power, all of it. Give me this series disney you cowards! You wasted three minutes of my life with “The Good, The Bart and the Loki” on the promise of an actually funny marvel spoof, you wasted my pateince by making Helen Fucking Lovejoy, the worst simpsons character, Captain Marvel, and you wasted Tom Hiddleston. Give me my teeth monster family show!

Where am I? Ah right, So Gus goes to introduce himself to the cool kids: Brea (Freckled Girl), Gavin (Tall kid) and Angmar (Some yellow creature thing), who are from Glandus High and are going on a quest and invite gus along. THeir also running with their old buddy and current Hexside student Matholomule: aka “That asshole whose episode I haven’t watched because I forgot to”. Yeah a huge oversight on my part and I should’ve figured missing an episode would’ve come back to haunt me and that ghost is in the face. I did read about it though so I didn’t miss anything. He’s also as fond of gus as ever despite the kid saving his lfie and mocks him with Gus planning not to go on the quest due to his self esteem. God he really is a young me.. except black and with a bright future ahead of him. But Luz interupts as she was using the invisiblity glyph to give them space and h ypes Gus up as a super witch and while he really DOSEN’T know any othe rmagic, Luz gives him her Glyphs she brought with her, because she’s prepared dammit, to fake it till he makes.. out with Brea whose clearly into him. And to show Matholmew up since he sucks and she’s fine with showing up jerks.

So our two stories diverge and while I know your all chomping at the bit to get to the Lumity Story your just going to have to wait a sec because Gus’s plot is the a-plot, The LUmity Plot closes out the episode, and I want my boy gus to have a chance to shine so

The Gus Plot I”m Sure Most of You Want to Skip But Please Don’t:

So for the two of you who stuck around this plot goes how you’d expect at first: Our heroes brave deadly dangers, Gus uses the Glyphs to cheat his way out, Mattholmule is humilated. The natural order of thigns for a liar revealed plot. We do find out though that Glandus runs on a Survivial of the Fittest sort of doctrine and that Brea wants to make things better by getting the stones. Also she clearly has a thing for Gus. Eh it interupts my ship but it’s fine it’s not like she’s evil amirite? We also find out more about the group: Gavin wants the power up to get his dad’s love and Angmar wants it to build a garden because he’s clearly ont a bad person deep down.

So our heroes find the target of their quest: some powerful stones that amp up magic. So basically the Power Infinity Stone. Good to know. Anyway our heroes dink around with it till Gus makes a horrific discovery: these stones are on illusionist GRAVES.

Sadly what was a budding ship for me becomes a big dollop of no as it turns out Brea and friends are a bunch of assholes. I mean they saved my precious baby angel but i’ts disapointing: I liked these kids and they turn out to be team rocket. That’s never a good feeling. A giant monster shows up to seemingly end the conflict.. but it turns out that itself is an

As it’s caster disapates it when Gus tries to counter it with his own monster. Turns out Illusionists were set to guard the stones because since the stones don’t enhance their powers. .because they “can’t enhance what isn’t real”

Okay this makes no sense to me as ... wouldn’t it just make the ilusions real? or give the caster the ablility to make BIGGER illusions or more convincing ones, like maybe not solid ones but ones with breath or something? It just makes ZERO sense that something that just increases power.. woudln’t simply because “it creates illusions” epsecially given this episode shows just HOW powerful illusions can get in this reality. Did they just not want to break the story by giving Gus the power of a god if he went to this old man to borrow a stone? This area is out of the way, not TOO far from bonesburough and clearly these stones are there if he truly needs them so their not any less of a plot hole if they have ot prepare for a big fight, have time to get them and don’t. This entire part of the episode just takes me out of what is already a decent if fairly well trod plot.

Gus gets tied up by the threeasslbellros and is depressed he seemingly can’t do anything.. but he gets help from an unlikely source: Matholomule whose not only super not happy to be back into the same bullied dynamic with is old “friends”, but despite not being able to show it he DOES genuinely appricate gus and the lesson that he taught him: that even “weak’ magic can be strong. So with our heroes free they need a plan. The Old Illusionist has a pretty good one...

I’m not even joking.... that’s the episode’s joke. I wish he had, I love dogs even terrifying ones. But no, Gus has a better idea.. and procedes to show why you do NOT fuck with the illusion master. He starts small first though, using the facts he learned earlier to lure Brea’s minons away with a butterfly and Gavin with a mustache because that’s apparnetly what their dad actualy looks like

Brea isn’t fooled.. but gus COUNTED on that and pulls a full fucking Thanos in Infinity War.. okay he dosen’t make her die by dust cloud but he does pull the EXACT trick Thanos did on the guardians, crafting an area wide illusion of zombies, spooky atmosphere and Brea herslef crumbling to dust and turning to a statue.

I didn’t know he had it in him. And he does this WITHOUT the mind stone, meaning it was all under his own power. I shoulld’ve realized he was capable of this though. Mastermind is able to do a LOT of stuff over in X-Men, currently part of X-Corp, I just didn’t think Gus could go this far but he did. The Illusion Master points out that Gus has a keen eye for people and detail.. and he coudl be a master himself. The master decides to bury the graveyard but gus offers another solution: he and Math will come back on weekends to help shore up defenses. The guy likes that, and the tow are KIND OF friends now. A happy ending. And as for me.. eh I already have my other ship ready for gus. I think. I’m not sure he’s 12 anymore. (Shrugs) Frosta will just have to find someone else I dunno. Okay let’s get to what you came here for

What You Actually Came to See:

So we transition from Gus being pretty fucking ungodly powerful when he wants to be to the Gays Winning even more as Luz watches Amity wrap up story time for the day watches Amity with her hair down and finds she really REALLY likes it while Amity bargins with that kid from the season 1 credits to read her whatever she wants if she gets her hair tie back. “Yay i’m going to learn how to summon the dark lord!” Well Dormmamu DOES love to bargin but I think he’s a bit busy at the moment little angel.

And why yes that is a planet sized Dormmamu and why yes you may void your bowels now. Thank you. Eh maybe she’ll get to meet the guardians of the galaxy and ride on his giant planet head. Who knows? And again yes Dormmamu really is fighting the guardians of the galaxy. Things like this keep me young.

Anyway it’s then that the disaster bisexual twins notice Luz drooling and interupt her for their own personal amusment. Also Amira is riding Edric piggyback for some reason.

Since this is their first proper apperance this season I can say I love these two big shits. Especailly now they’ve gone from being unintentional bullies to loveable tricksters genuinely looking out for their sister and new friend/sister’s crush. Dosen’t mean they won’t needle poor luz though Luz: You here to pick up Amity? Amira: No looks like you got that covered. Edric is actually here for skincare he has a date with.. someone. They don’t specificy gender: could be a boy, a girl, gender fluid or non-binary. This show is progressive as fuck and the twins both strike me as bi or pan as shit. He also apparently accedently texted a poem to his date’s mom something Amiria REALLY needs to stop telling people. I do like how the two have slowly developed their own personalities though: Amira’s a bit more mature but also willing ot turn their antics onto her own brother, and Eldric’s a bit goofier if still suave. I like it. Once Amity actually enters the scene and sees Luz the diaster twins make tracks to go do something.. over there. The not even remotely ambigiously gay duo make eyes with each other and blush and i’ts very adorable before Luz gets to the point: earlier before oggling amity she searched “Human’ in the library computers... crystal balls.. same deal (We also found out Movies exist in this universe and god do I want to see one before the series is up. ) and found out that the Human Gwendolyn mentioned (I thought it was the library because the weekend I watched that episode was very tyring), living in Bonesborough donated his journal. And no he didn’t have 6 fingers. Sadly we’re not getting the obvious crossover yet.

Anyways, the good news is they have it.. the bad news is it’s in the forbidden stacks. The worse news is ironically enough Stacks does not work in the forbidden stacks so they can’t rely on the stump kids for help. The forbidden Stacks are the domain of Amity’s boss and head librarian Malfus, who on the outset looks like some creepy glowy eyed abomnination thing. Amity agrees but tells Luz they have to be extra careful or she’ll loose her job. Because this is a job now and not just something she does on the weekends. I dn’t know and your about to not care.

So the two have to sneak around silently and get some ship tease having to duck down, then blushing like crazy then talking things over, as Amity is worried they’ll get fed to the Book Worms.. which Luz , while pointing out in the human world “is a cute term for nerds”, is experinced enough at this point to get it’s some horrible blood eating creature.

But Luz offers to show Amity around the human world.. and thus makes it VERY clear both just how MUCH she values her crush, and that she has no intention of abandoing those back in bonesborough when she gets home. She’s just worried about her mom.. whose currently at home with a doppleganger she knows nothing about because this season is plotty as hell and I am here for it.

Anyways our heroines continue their journey, which as @jess-the-vampire pointed otu was framed as some epic indania jones style adventure in teh solicit for this episode. .but is really more about two teenagers grappling with both their feelings for one another and their tendency to do really dumb shit because of those feelings. Case in point upon finding a mouse ate everything Luz screams in frustration and their found. Malfus reaction is understandable.

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Actually his reactoin... is easily the funniest joke of the entire series so far. And I don’t say that lightly this series is funny as hell.. but my god the timing on this one... Malfus turns his gaaze toward them shrieks out Amity’s name.. then hard cut to him talking about how disapointed he is to her like he’s Mr. Vandriesen. So yeah Amity’s fired and not happy about it and Luz blames hersef.. and has become clear now that’s a pattern: Luz blames herself for EVERYTHING: For being trapped here, for Eda being cursed, for this very gay shenanigan. It’s honestly a clever turn for the character: things like being an outcast at school, her mom turning her back on her, the various slipups she got into SEEMED like it just sorta slipped off.. but it didn’t. It all gunked around her heart till it started eating her alive and we’re seeing that now.

As someone with both autisim and anxiety.. this honestly hits REALLY close to home. I did have a better school: mine at least TRIED to help.. but at the end of the day the program I was in had teachers who while they WANTED to help me, mostly had to try and get me back to class rather than tackle the roots of my anxiety or rage issues that were causing my freakouts. Luz dosen’t even seem to have THAT: her school just wants her to “be normal already” when that’s clearly not an option for her, and I feel her acting out and the abundance of snakes is her simply not getting it and simply getting punished over and over instead of actually trying to reach her as a person. It’s not like she didn’t ge tinto trouble at hexside too, but the diffrence is bump eventaully listened: he let her back in then gladly changed the tract system simply because it made logical sense to. Bump actually invested in Luz as a person instead of just a problem to solve. Her whole life.. that’s what Luz has been to people and no wonder she feels like that. Evne Camillia, who i’m sure has TRIED to be nice with her.. just wants a NORMAL daughter. I’m not saying Camillia is a BAD person, she’s a single struggling mother with a unique and somewhat difficult child... they clearly love each other.. but instead of understanding her she tried shoving her in a box and got a doppleganger out of that box instead. She so dosen’t try to understand luz.. she can’t see a replacement for what it is. No one before Eda really TRIED to understand her so it’s no wonder when things go terrible Luz blames herself and ONLY herself.

Amity dosen’t accept this though and points out it was her choice... but isn’t that much more healthy, wondering WHY she does Dumb stuff around luz and wishing she didn’t... and Luz admits she does the same.

Amity gay panics and runs away from the situatoin. So after we finish up the other plot we cut to that night where Amity’s in her room with the diaster twins, with Edric apparently fiddling with some pimples and Amira comforting Amity whose still at a loss, admitting these feelings are new and scary. And that’s.. shockingly and refreshingly realistic. Romantic feelings someitmes can scare the shit out of you. Amity is also confused as she never USED to be like this.. but Amiria ponits out the obvious: Sure.. but she wasn’t HAPPY like hse used to be. Luz makes her happy and made her a better person.

As if on Cue Luz shows up at the Window, beaten to all hell and having gotten Amity her card back. As it turns out Malfus isn’t unresonable.. he just made her go through some trials that involved sorting books and taming the paper dragon. Awww.. now I want to see the paper dragon. She also understands if Amity never wants to see her again and leaves. Amity is abssolutely touched by this.. and when Amira asks if she wants her roots touched up.. Amity decides against it. She goes not with Green, the color of her abusivie waiters nightmare of a mother or her absentee enabling dad.. but of HER. Of abominations.. and of Love.

So yeah Amity has a whole new hair style complete with having her hair down and it being a light purple. Looks neat, took some getting used to. So Amity goes to talk to Luz, and tells her what she did was sweet etc with Luz happy to have her back but bemoaning the fact the mouse ate all her book. Turns out though said mouse is an Echo Mouse, a mouse that literally eats the contents of books and can play it back.

As such it plays back the first chapter in a REALLY beautiful paper cut out style. I’ve always loved this style of animation, it’s always so beautiful and jarring in just the right way and always makes things look extra awesome for flashbacks or exposition.

So we find out the first visitor to the Isles was Phillip Whitbane, a gentleman who stuided throughly and by the time of making the diary, had gone on a quest to construct a way out. He was clearly enchanted by the place, though if he got home remained a mystery. What isn’t.. is that HE made the door, and the diary, which he donated as a thank you for the denzins of the boilling isles helping him, is his record of HOW. Luz has a way home.

Before we move on to the biggest moment, yes bigger than conforimation there WAS another human, naturally everyone assumed Phillip was Bellos including my good friend Jess. As usual with this sort of thing we talked over the hell out of this. Jess still thinks it’s Belos, as it matches up perfectly and while Phillip has a diffrent va... the creators aren’t THAT stupid and knew we’d check that. But the voices are similar.

A lot of people though think Belos is Phillip’s descnedant and I agree.. just not in the way some are saying. Some say Phillip had a child on the isles.. I disagree as even if it was century’s ago a half human would’ve been SOMETHING people woudl’ve noticed and Belos came out of NOWHERE. He’d have to have killed his entire family to hide it, which is possible.. but I have a better theory: Belos is Phillip’s HUMAN descendant. Phillip made it home, wrote of his journey and simply kept the door. Given that would’ve been the 1600′s, that means Belos likely got obessed or curious abotu his ancestor and his tales and 370 years later, found the door and went there himself, likely leaving the door in the ruins of Phillips house, as Jess expertly pointed out a fact I missed: that the place Eda found the book was NOT her home, meaning wherever it was wa slikely repurposposed by the healing coven and Belos simploy didn’t make a stink about it because he didn’t want to tip his hand or simply coudln’t find the door , it being lost in the 50 years since he go there. There’s a lot of vagueties and either theory works, I just wanted to throw mine into the ring.

So with that Luz is happy to have both a way home an da new friend.. and we get to the moment we’ve been waiting for: Amity tells luz “You always have a way of getting into people’s hearts”.. and gently kisses her on the cheek. it’s fucking precious, it’s magical and it’s oh so sweet. Not too much too soon, but still just enough to show yeah, this is finally happening and to make it WAY to clear to easily avoid what’ she feels. Eldric approves the “bold move” and Amity.. naturally goes back int ogay panic mode saying “goodbye forever” and asking why she did that while Luz collapses in a lovestruck heap. I couldn’t of planne dit better myself. Fucking perfect. Also the episode just.. ends right there. I don’t THINK the next episode will follow up on this right away. but given it does take place at hexside there’s HOPE. Even if i’ts mostly about other stuff. But just.. HOLY FUCK was that adorable.

Final Thoughts:

HOLY FUCK WAS THAT ADORABLE.

Also this episode was pretty good. While Gus is my boy... his plot was sadly pretty stock and while I didn’t see the Glandus Trio’s betryal coming, I SHOULD’VE as the “I want to make it a better place” line was WAY too vauge. Still it was a decent enough plot that showed off Gus’ strengths as well as Isaac Ryan Browns, who REALLY gets to shine with this one and show off his new voice. Matholomule ending up an ally instead of a fuckwit was also a nice turn.

The real show of course was the Lumity subplot... it was just a really nice, emotoinal, adorable ride, with great suspense, the best gag of the series and genuine, honestly written romantic tension. Robles and Whitman just have pitch perfect chemistry and getting an episode essentially just the two of them showed it off to the best it’s been so far, and the payoff to it was utterly adorable. This isn’t just a delightfully visable queer romance from a company that is homophobic on a regular day and a creator who fought hard to make it happen.. it’s just a well written relationship in general: there’s no drawn out will they or won’t they crap or misunderstandings or any of the usual relationship pitfalls: no “Oh they wont’ be intresting together” bullshit. Just a well written, chemstiry filled realtionshp built up slowly but surely till it finally bubbled over here with more room to grow. Amazing stuff.

Next time: Golden Guard Episode! I know one person who will be excited.. and two because i’m also excited.

If you liked this review and this accurately reflects your need for more content from me that’s owl house or disney related in general.

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#the owl house #through the looking glass ruins #lumity #amity blight #luz noceda #aldric blight #amira blight #gus porter #matholowmule #lbgtq+#lesbian #bisexual

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bad-draft-stuff · 4 years

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det. AU 13

Sheepy: Harley: So, to recap the current events - make sure to write them down exactly. They might come in importance later on -

Sheepy: Harley: Iris, Sheepy, Randolph, Van Helsing, and Impey went to the museum. There, Impey was assaulted by one of Moriarty's men - although I received notification that everything was "Fine" by "Mycroft" - and witnessed a murder in action. There, the victim rose once more and Van Helsing put him down for good. Meanwhile, somewhere in this time period, Diego targeted the casino and was captured. After this, we came to the shocking discovery, thanks to Porlock, that Moriarty and Glaaki are entwined at some level. Nyarlathotep - N-y-a-r-l-a-t-h-o-t-e-p. Do you have that spelled right? - targeted Glaaki - two a's, not one - with the help of Azathoth and saved one man, but the cave was flooded therefore erasing any potential valuable evidence. In order to figure out what the connection between Moriarty and Glaaki was, Sheepy and Randolph headed out to see him. Meanwhile, while waiting for their return - 8:17 AM - Sherlock brought in the mail, and after some throwaway letters of little importance, we came across a letter from Diego requesting help in the form of a fan letter. Lupin and I came to the conclusion that we would disguise ourselves as a married couple and go into the casino. I contacted Mycroft in order to get more information. He came here with Finis. After some discussion, we learned that the address in the letter was none other than the casino's address, but he will look deeper. I will be paying him per the hour upon his successful retrieval of information. Make sure to write that down, yes? So I don't forget. Let's see - from here, our next step is to infiltrate the casino and help Diego. Do you have all that? Arsé-kun: Arséne: That's all of it. All correct and everything matches up! Sheepy: Harley: Great. Arsé-kun: Arséne: And are we still keeping with the plan of unhappy couple looking for different ways out? Sheepy: Harley: I was joking, but I suppose it's too late now. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Far too late. Arsé-kun: Arséne: I even prepared the fake blood already. You can't back out of this now. Sheepy: Harley: What!? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Why are you so shocked?? Have you never used it? Sheepy: Harley: I have, but.......! Arsé-kun: Arséne: You never, ever know when you''ll need it. And a bulletproof vest. Which reminds me... It hasn't been replaced still! Sheepy: Harley: Oh dear. Arsé-kun: Arséne: It'll have to be dealt with before we go, but not now. Sheepy: Harley: Alright. Sheepy: Harley: I'll remember it. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Please do. Being shot for real is not in my list of things to do this week. Sheepy: Harley: How unfortunate. Sheepy: Harley: If you need assistance on faking your death, I have some knowledge on the subject. Arsé-kun: Arséne: So I've heard. I, too, have experience with the subject. Sheepy: Harley: I'm curious. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Hi curious Sheepy: Harley: What happened? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Which time? Sheepy: Harley: ...? F...first time? Sheepy: Harley: I only needed to do it once. Sheepy: Harley: I only needed to do it once. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Oh, I only did it to avoid being shot at more. Sheepy: Harley: The other times, simply fleeing and breaking off all contact was sufficient. Sheepy: Harley: Watson would have killed me himself if I had faked my death again. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Hey, quick question? Sheepy: Harley: What? Arsé-kun: Arséne: What the fuck? Sheepy: Harley: What? Sheepy: Harley: What do you mean? What is that a response to? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Most of it. I had to listen to Watson ranting about it for years, you know- Arsé-kun: Watson: And I'm still absolutely pissed off about it! Arsé-kun: *oh, hi watson.* Sheepy: Harley: Ah, Watson, why are you still angry? Arsé-kun: Watson: Because it was downright awful! Sheepy: Harley: It was completely necessary. Sheepy: Harley: Due to my mistakes, while I still lived, all of you had a target on your back. Sheepy: Harley: Honestly, I didn't think you'd fall for such a thing, the doctor that you are. I simply had to be declared dead. Colluding with another to make it look as though I'd been shot in the heart was simple work. It was also a convenient excuse that they'd drag the body off. Since there were witnesses, I was declared dead. Simple, yet effective. Sheepy: Harley: The only thing I didn't calculate into the plan was that a case would bring me back into the area and that Sherlock was going to grab onto it too. Sheepy: Harley: I certainly am happy we ended up encountering each other once more, but... you may wonder: "Why didn't I consider your feelings"? Oh, I did. I gauged that you would mourn for about a month before realizing how suspicious it was. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Well, lets plan this out in more detail, yes? Sheepy: Harley: Yes, um... Sheepy: Harley: So we two go in, arm in arm. Sheepy: Harley: Since you're a cheating flirt, you'll be looking around. This gives you the ability to spot anything suspicious. Sheepy: Harley: I will be looking ahead and keeping my ears prepped for anything of use. Sheepy: Harley:...is that the word. Sheepy: Harley: Perked? Arsé-kun: Arséne: One of the two has to be right! Sheepy: Harley: While you gamble, I can look around the room. It also givew me the ability to leave. We have to set up some sort of code. Arsé-kun: Arséne: We absolutely do. Sheepy: Harley: The only problem is... Sheepy: Harley:...I have never been in a casino before. Sheepy: Harley: Is there food? A bathroom? Do gamblers need bathrooms or sustenance? Arsé-kun: Watson: Why don't you just ask your brother when he gets back to you? Sheepy: Harley: M...Mycroft. Gambles? Arsé-kun: Watson: You didn't know? Sheepy: Harley: What...! Arsé-kun: Watson: If he didn't have children, he'd probably waste all of his cash. Sheepy: Harley: What!!! Sheepy: Harley: I need to talk to him... Sheepy: Harley: No wonder he instantly recognized it... Arsé-kun: Watson: He probably frequents it. Sheepy: Harley: I've been such a bad brother...! I didn't even know! Sheepy: Harley: Why didn't I know...!? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Because you don't know everything? Sheepy: Harley: I should've known... Arsé-kun: Arséne: About someone's personal life, when you never asked? Sheepy: Harley: How does Watson know? Sheepy: Harley: Does Watson gamble too and they're gambling buddies?! Arsé-kun: Watson: Because he's told me? I'm not one to gamble, personally. You know this. Sheepy: Harley: He told you and not me... Arsé-kun: Watson: You didn't want to talk to him. Sheepy: Harley: Ah... Sheepy: Harley: I'd...forgotten about that. Sheepy: Harley: I should've... Arsé-kun: Watson: Stop right there. Sheepy: Harley: What? Arsé-kun: Watson: You don't need to know everything. That's what learning is for. Sheepy: Harley: ...Yes, I suppose so. Sheepy: Harley: ... Sheepy: Harley: Lupin, how should we continue from here? Arsé-kun: Arséne: That's a fantastic question. I suggest our safety, excluding the vests for now. Sheepy: Harley: Good idea. Arsé-kun: Arséne: You're looking to take me out of the picture, so being armed would make sense for you. Sheepy: Harley: ...But if I'm caught with a weapon. Sheepy: Harley: I have to hope for Lestrade to be the one who comes to arrest me, I suppose. Arsé-kun: Arséne: That's why you keep it hidden, genius. Sheepy: Harley: That doesn't help always. Sheepy: Harley: I don't need it necessarily. Sheepy: Harley: What stuns someone but isn't lethal? Sheepy: Harley: A flashlight can temporarily blind someone. Sheepy: Harley: Round objects can make them slip. Sheepy: Harley: Ah.... Sheepy: Harley: And a knife in case I get caught. Sheepy: Harley:...I'm kidding. Arsé-kun: Arséne: No, no, have a knife. If you strap it to your leg, it may serve as a distraction. Sheepy: Harley: I'll do it then. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Great. Sheepy: Harley: And you? Arsé-kun: Arséne: I'll probably do the same. Sheepy: Harley: Okay. Sheepy: Harley: Is that all? Arsé-kun: Arséne: I wish it was. Sheepy: Harley: What else is there? Arsé-kun: Arséne: We need to wait for Mycroft's report, for one. Sheepy: Harley: Right. I need to apologize when he gets back. Sheepy: Harley: And we need to get the disguises ready. Sheepy: Harley: Do I need to wear a wig, do you think? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Yes, followed by a maybe. Sheepy: Harley: I could dye it with a temporary dye but I'd rather not. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Too obvious. Temporary dye makes hair look like straw. Sheepy: Harley: Right. Wig it is. Sheepy: Harley: What hair color? Arsé-kun: Arséne: That's entirely up to you. Sheepy: Harley: I'll go with... Sheepy: Harley: Watson? Arsé-kun: Watson: I'm not a hair color. Sheepy: Harley: What hair color says backstabber? Arsé-kun: Watson: What kind of question is that?? Arsé-kun: Watson: ... Platinum blond. Sheepy: Harley: Thank you. Arsé-kun: Watson: Of course. Sheepy: Harley: I'll be a platinum blond. Sheepy: Harley: For once, I'll match Sherlock. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Is that platinum? I thought Sherlock was more of a darker blond. Sheepy: Harley: I don't know. Sheepy: Harley: I never paid much attention to such descriptors... Sheepy: Harley: I'll still be close, right? Sheepy: Harley: And then people won't comment. Sheepy: Harley: They ask as though I know. Arsé-kun: Arséne: You don't pay attention to physical descriptors when they can point out a criminal's identity? Sheepy: Harley: I do. Sheepy: Harley: But ... Sheepy: Harley: Isn't platinum blond just blond? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Platinum blond is an extremely light color. Almost white, but not quite. Sheepy: Harley: Where's Sherlock... Sheepy: Harley: Sheeeerrrlooooock! Sheepy: Sherlock: *He rushes in* Where's the bug?? Sheepy: Harley: That's platinum blond, isn't it, Watson? Slightly grayish but it is. Arsé-kun: Watson: Ehhh... It's a bit too dark for that, perhaps? Sheepy: Sherlock: Uh? Sheepy: Harley: Then what is it? Arsé-kun: Watson: It's not that. Also, Sherlock, there's a spider over here. Come get it. Sheepy: Sherlock: Oh! Sheepy: *Sherlock comes over with a cup to try to catch it.* Arsé-kun: *Both Sherlock and the spider make fools of themselves. The spider escapes, though.* Sheepy: Sherlock:....! Sheepy: Sherlock: Where did it go... Sheepy: Harley: *He slowly lifts his hand to his usual thinking pose.* Ah. Sheepy: Sherlock: What? Sheepy: Harley: Don't touch me for another few hours. Sheepy: Harley: It ran into your sleeve. Sheepy: Sherlock:!?!? Sheepy: Sherlock: W-Watson....was it...poisonous? Arsé-kun: Watson: I doubt it? Most spider venom doesn't do much to humans, anyway. Sheepy: Sherlock:...Really? Sheepy: Sherlock: So I'm okay? Arsé-kun: Watson: Well, it hasn't bitten you, has it? Sheepy: Harley: No, you'll begin your transformation into spiderman by touch alone. Sheepy: Sherlock: Watson, I don't want to be spiderman!! Arsé-kun: Watson: That spider was magic and also fake. This is a normal spider. Sheepy: Sherlock: Ah, you're a spider expert! Sheepy: Harley: *he has his smug grin* Sheepy: Harley: That's what spiderman thought, and then he became half man, half spider. Sheepy: Sherlock: Whaaaat?! Sheepy: Sherlock: I didn't know that...!! Arsé-kun: Watson: *he just sighs and applies hand to face* Sheepy: Sherlock: Watson...did you know!? Sheepy: Sherlock: I thought spiderman just shot spiders out of his hands! Arsé-kun: Watson: No. Sheepy: Sherlock: So he's a half man, half spider...! Sheepy: Harley: Like how we're all half man, half skeleton. Sheepy: Sherlock: What!? Sheepy: Harley: Yes. Shockingly, you too contain a skeleton within you. Sheepy: Sherlock: IM DEAD INSIDE!? Arsé-kun: *Arséne succeeds in not laughing, but Impey does not. Impey is not in this room.* Sheepy: Sherlock: S-so... Sheepy: Sherlock:...Flesh... Sheepy: Sherlock: Is a coffin for the dead me inside of me. Arsé-kun: Watson: Stop right there. Arsé-kun: Watson: I've lost more IQ from hearing that, than over anything Nyar says, ever. Sheepy: Sherlock: We're all man-shaped coffins, Watson! Sheepy: Harley: *He's giggling* Arsé-kun: Watson: If you're going to insist on this, it wouldn't be coffins. It'd be vessels. The brain is what's important. But please do not. Sheepy: Sherlock:!? Sheepy: Sherlock: I have one of those? Arsé-kun: Watson: Fuck, I sure hope so. Sheepy: Sherlock: Some people say I don't, so I just assumed.... Sheepy: Harley: You should tell Mycroft everything you've figured out today. Sheepy: Harley: I'm sure he'd be very fascinated by it. Arsé-kun: Watson: Listen, if you had no brain you would be dead. Sheepy: Sherlock: What... Sheepy: Sherlock:.... Sheepy: Sherlock: Plants have brains. Arsé-kun: Watson: Who told you this, so I can beat them with my cane. Sheepy: Sherlock: Sheepy. Sheepy: Sherlock: He knows a lot about everything. Arsé-kun: Watson: *he turns to Arséne* Your son is dead to me. Sheepy: Harley: Oh, yeah. Sheepy: Harley: Hes the one who made half man, half spider spiderman. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Somehow? This doesn't surprise me. Sheepy: Harley: His opponent is the human flyswatter. It's just a man with fly swatters strapped to his hands. Sheepy: Harley: Thank me for such a creative villain. Arsé-kun: *Impey has started laughing again in the distance* Sheepy: Harley: Did I mention that we made our own extensive super hero world out of boredom? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Share this with us later. I'd probably pay to read about it. Sheepy: Harley: My personal favorite is the invisible man. Sheepy: Harley: You see, he never learned object permeance. Sheepy: Harley: So he wears a blindfold and assumes no one can see him because he can't see anyone. Arsé-kun: *impey laughter x2* Sheepy: Harley: Once again, you can thank yours truly for such a creative antihero. Sheepy: Harley: Oh, you can join our superhero universe creation. Sheepy: Harley: We made sure to go for a terrible high school plot where everyone has superpowers. Sheepy: Sherlock: I didn't know you two got along.. Sheepy: Harley: Oh, we don't. We hate each other immensely. Arsé-kun: Impey: Is that why I hear you two giggling at 5 am? *he finally enters scene, having been, of course, cooking* Sheepy: Harley: Yes. Sheepy: Harley: I'm a very good influence, as you can see. Sheepy: Harley: If I see him up late at night, I join in on his antics. Arsé-kun: Arséne: You're encouraging him. Sheepy: Harley: Yes. Sheepy: Harley: I also help him on concepts he struggles with. I make up for it. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Like..? Sheepy: Harley: History and science. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Then you have some of my thanks. Not all of them. Not yet. Sheepy: Harley: Well, you're welcome. But not all of you. Only a portion. Arsé-kun: Impey: Oh, car just pulled up! And parked! Sheepy: Harley: It must be Mycroft. Sheepy: Sherlock: What a talented car! Arsé-kun: *and in comes Finis, carrying a manilla folder full of papers, which is placed on the desk* Arsé-kun: Finis: Mycroft is legally not allowed to hand this over due to his occupation's rules, but nothing says I can't. Sheepy: Harley: Thank you, Finis. Sheepy: Harley: Is he alright? Sheepy: Harley: There's something more I'd like to talk to him about. Arsé-kun: Finis: Of course he is. He'll be here in a moment, unless he is being slow. Sheepy: Harley: I see. Sheepy: Harley: Thank you for telling me. Sheepy: *Harley picks up the folder and begins looking through it* Sheepy: Harley: Ah, I nearly forgot. Sheepy: Harley: Payment... Sheepy: Harley: I never actually mentioned a rate...and I don't know how many hours he worked on this. Arsé-kun: Finis: Exactly four hours and twenty-seven minutes. Arsé-kun: Finis: If he claims longer, he's lying. Lunch break doesn't count. Sheepy: Harley: Oh dear. He's that sort of stickler for money. Sheepy: Harley: Well, good thing you're honest. ...But it'd look suspicious if it were a check... I can't leave paper trails... Sheepy: Harley: I'll be right back. Sheepy: *Harley rushes out briefly, before returning with $500. in cash. The last hundred is split into four twenties and two tens. Harley where were you hiding that* $100 an hour, an extra $50 for your assistance as well. Is that okay? Arsé-kun: Finis: That sounds fine to me. *he holds his hand out. give him the cash* Sheepy: *Harley does so* Arsé-kun: *Finis counts it, splits the 50 dollars for himself off, and pockets the rest. The 50 is tucked into a hair-donut. No one ever suspects the hair-donut.* Sheepy: Harley: There's something I'd like to ask you about. Arsé-kun: Finis: Certainly. Proceed. Sheepy: Harley: Does, uh... Sheepy: Harley: Watson said that, uh... Sheepy: Harley: Uh...Mycroft- does he, uh... Arsé-kun: Finis: There is an increasing chance that the answer is "Yes" to whatever it is you are asking. Sheepy: Harley: Have a gambling problem? Arsé-kun: Finis: He's about two steps away from it becoming a problem, per say. *he plops down onto the sofa* Those two steps are me hiding his wallet and Cardia physically restraining him. Arsé-kun: *Mycroft finally enters scene. I'm not sure what took so long, and I'm the writer! A+ me.* Sheepy: Sherlock: MYCROFT, I'M DEAD INSIDE!! Sheepy: Harley: Stop bragging about being special by having a skeleton inside of you! People will get jealous! Arsé-kun: Mycroft: *STEP ONE, TRY NOT TO LAUGH. STEP TWO, FAIL INSTANTLY.* Arsé-kun: Finis: .... I'm sorry? I just lost brain cells listening to that sentence. Sheepy: Sherlock: Harley just told me that I have a skeleton inside of me! Arsé-kun: Finis: So does every other human. Your partner is a licensed professional and this is news to you?? Sheepy: Sherlock: Eh?! Sheepy: Sherlock: Wh...what... Sheepy: Harley: Sh...Sherlock. Do you know what the hard structure inside of your body is? Sheepy: Sherlock: Bones. Sheepy: Harley: And what are skeletons made out of? Arsé-kun: Arséne: *doing his best Tom impression* Birds! Sheepy: Sherlock:........... Sheepy: *Sherlock starts thinking very hard about this...* Sheepy: Sherlock:.....More skeletons! Arsé-kun: Finis: Only if it was a carrying pregnant person. Sheepy: Sherlock: What? Sheepy: Sherlock: So...babies don't come from storks like Harley told me... Sheepy: Sherlock:....But rather skeletons?! Sheepy: Harley: Why did you believe me!? Arsé-kun: Finis: ... ... ... Is this it? Is this peak stupidity? Sheepy: Sherlock: I'm not stupid! Sheepy: Sherlock: I'm spiderman! Sheepy: Sherlock: Harley told me that spiders running onto you turns you into spiderman. Arsé-kun: Finis: I can't even formulate a reply to that. Congratulations. You're an idiot. Sheepy: Harley: *He has his terrible, smug grin again* Sheepy: Sherlock: I'm not an idiot...! Sheepy: Sherlock: I try really hard! Sheepy: Sherlock: I just don't remember any of the education I had. But I'm sure at one point I knew these things! Arsé-kun: Finis: You can try but still be a classic case of r- Arsé-kun: Mycroft: Enough of that, please and thanks. Sheepy: Harley: Mycroft, I learned something about you and now I'm worried about you. Arsé-kun: Mycroft: ? Sheepy: Harley: I feel partially responsible for rejecting you for so long, but... Sheepy: Harley: Gambling isn't worth it. Sheepy: Harley: Nothing good can come of it...like. Sheepy: Harley: The time I tried to prove my luck, so I did a scratchoff, won, and then got hit by a car right afterwards, thus destroying the scratchoff and injuring me. Sheepy: Harley: And if you lose, you're out the money. Arsé-kun: Mycroft: You think I gamble for money? Sheepy: Harley:...Is, is there any other reason? Arsé-kun: Mycroft: Nope, you'd be right. Sheepy: Harley: Mycroft...!! You don't need to gamble! Sheepy: Harley: You'd be a lot better off if you didn't. Sheepy: Harley: I never gamble and I don't have consistent work but financially I'm still well off. Sheepy: Sherlock: Your clients are weird. Sheepy: Harley: Because - shut up Sherlock - I save every bit I get and I don't gamble anything away. Sheepy: Sherlock: I'm pretty sure it's more due to the clients you attract.. Arsé-kun: Arséne: This is a fantastic amount of progress we're making. Sheepy: Harley: I'm trying to make a point...! Sheepy: Harley: You're the local gambler, you say something, Lupin. Arsé-kun: Arséne: I'm a bad example. I clean shop every time I go in! Sheepy: Harley: Wow, *He changes his voice to a more female voice to fit the role for the investigation* "Wow! What a stupid - I mean, talented husband I have!" Sheepy: Harley: "How nice of you to bring us to the casino for our anniversary so you can show me your gambling skills...!" Arsé-kun: Arséne: Oh, well, *he lowers his own pitch in response,* "I'm glad to have gotten your attention for more than a minute!" Sheepy: Harley: "Oh, I'd give you more of my attention if yours wasn't on other women!" Sheepy: Sherlock: If he likes gambling, he could go with you two. Sheepy: Sherlock: Would you want to go, Mycroft? Arsé-kun: Mycroft: While I'd love to, I'm... Probably not great at incognito missions? Sheepy: Sherlock: Uh? Oh. Sheepy: Harley: I mean, now that I think about it. Sheepy: Harley: I know absolutely nothing about casinos. Sheepy: Harley: Past the crime aspects, at least. Sheepy: Harley: You would fit in just fine, yes? You can keep an eye out for things. Arsé-kun: Arséne: I've got a better idea. Sheepy: Harley: What is it? Arsé-kun: Arséne: He can be our valet. We don't have a car, but it would look awfully strange if we took a bus for an anniversary. Sheepy: Harley: Genius. Arsé-kun: Arséne: And if he comes in later? Well, that's his decision. Sheepy: Harley: Right. Sheepy: Harley: Is this okay, Mycroft? Arsé-kun: Mycroft: It'll depend on the time, but otherwise? I suppose I could. Sheepy: Harley: Thank you. Sheepy: Harley: I'll need an hour in advance to prepare. Arsé-kun: Arséne: I may as well use that time to prepare myself. Sheepy: Harley: Right. Sheepy: Harley: Good idea. Sheepy: Harley: When are we going? Sheepy: Harley: As soon as we're ready? Sheepy: Harley: If so, I'll start now. Arsé-kun: Mycroft: We haven't even discussed it yet.. Sheepy: Harley: Oh... Sheepy: Harley:...Yes, you're right. Sheepy: Harley:...I apologize. I, uh.. Sheepy: Harley: I've been longing for something to do. Sheepy: Harley: It's very stuffy in here. Arsé-kun: Mycroft: I can understand that Sheepy: Sherlock: I'd go too, but I'd be in the way, and... Sheepy: Sherlock: *He looks to the pile of cases* Ah.. Sheepy: Sherlock:....Hmmm.... Arsé-kun: Arséne: I don't know how you get bored when you have, eh. That. Arsé-kun: Arséne: So, here's my plan. I'll do a scope of it tonight, while you study the perimeters. Sheepy: Harley: Alright -do you mean I go there myself? Arsé-kun: Arséne: No, no. There's the paperwork, yes? There must be a map of sorts. Most places have maps with labelled fire escapes. Sheepy: Harley: Right. Good idea. Sheepy: *Harley turns his attention to the paperwork* Sheepy: Sherlock: good luck! Arsé-kun: Arséne: And with that, I'm going to head out soon. Sheepy: Harley: Good luck Arsé-kun: Arséne: Thank you. If I'm not back before tomorrow, well, then there might be trouble. Sheepy: Harley: Got it. Sheepy: Harley: I'll keep an eye on the time. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Fantastic. There's just one thing I need before I go. :I Where has Sheepy gone off to? Sheepy: Harley: Didn't he go to Moriarty's? Sheepy: Sherlock: Why would he go there?! Arsé-kun: Arséne: Information. He's done it before, apparently? Sheepy: Harley: *He looks away. what do you know* Sheepy: Sherlock: What...! Sheepy: Harley: Try texting him maybe. Arsé-kun: Arséne: [Text: to Sheepy] Do you want to go on a scope tonight? It'll be excused by Harley because it's for the case. Sheepy: Sheepy: [text: to Arsene] Yeah sure Arsé-kun: Arséne: [text: to Sheepy] Great. It's a casino. There should be incredible security. Sheepy: Sheepy: [text: to Arsene] !!! Sheepy: Sheepy: [text: to Arsene] Great, let's go! Arsé-kun: Arséne: [text: to Sheepy] Meet me upstairs. We'll get ready and go together. Sheepy: Sheepy: [text: Arsene] Coming. Sheepy: *Sheepy enters through the window a few moments later!* Arsé-kun: Arséne: That was awfully quick. Was that a new record? Sheepy: Sheepy: It should be. Sheepy: Sheepy: Let's get ready! Arsé-kun: Arséne: Lets. Sheepy: *Sheepy begins changing into his Joker outfit* Arsé-kun: *Arséne does the same, carefully suiting up. The Phantoms will (eventually) ride tonight! hell yea* Sheepy: Sheepy: What's this for, anyway? Sheepy: Sheepy: What's so bad about this casino? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Diego was captured and is presumably being held there. We need to scope it out before we try anything. Sheepy: Sheepy: Alright, I'll do my best. Sheepy: Sheepy: I'm ready when you are. Arsé-kun: Arséne: But I'll be ready when you are! Sheepy: Sheepy: Then I'm ready now, let's go! Arsé-kun: Arséne: After you, monsieur! *he bows and opens the window* Sheepy: *Sheepy slips out the window* Arsé-kun: *Arséne follows, closing the window before grabbing a nearby branch and using it to get down. Gentle branch descent.* Sheepy: Sheepy: Oh, that's smart. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Until it breaks and sends me into the ground. I still expect that to happen. Sheepy: Sheepy: Oof, rest in peace in advance. Sheepy: Sheepy: Or you could put your life into your hands every time you leave through the window like me. Arsé-kun: Arséne: And I easily could, but I've got less trust in that method in the rainy seasons. Sheepy: Sheepy: Did you sprain your ankle that way or something? Arsé-kun: Arséne: That too. Sheepy: Sheepy: I've got the power of genes on my side. Like a "getting hit by a car and tanking it" gene. Arsé-kun: Arséne: So I'm aware. Sheepy: Sheepy: Hey now, I just had to test it apparently. Arsé-kun: Arséne: You absolutely did not. Please stick to not being hit by vehicles. Sheepy: Sheepy: I saw it for my own two eyes the first time, so then I went ahead and got hit myself. Sheepy: Sheepy: You're no fun. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Thanks. Sheepy: Sheepy: You need to be more adventurous! Arsé-kun: Arséne: You need to be alive to do that! Sheepy: Sheepy:...How much more walking until we're there, anyway? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Oui. Sheepy: Sheepy: You don't need to be alive to be adventurous. Sheepy: Sheepy: Sherlock is dead inside but he's adventurous. Arsé-kun: Arséne: *he just sighs.* Sheepy: Sheepy: Or so I so loudly heard. Sheepy: Sheepy: Nobody noticed me enter a few hours prior so I waited to see how long it'd take for someone to notice. Arsé-kun: Arséne: That was referring to a skeleton. Sheepy: Sheepy: Wh...what. Sheepy: Sheepy: How... Arsé-kun: Arséne: According to the great detective's logic, a skeleton is dead. Therefore, he has a dead inside. Sheepy: Sheepy:.. Sheepy: Sheepy:....N....not to be rude, but, uh... Sheepy: Sheepy: How- how did he become a famous detective? Arsé-kun: Arséne: By being smart in different areas. Also, he tries far more on cases. Sheepy: Sheepy:...Right... Arsé-kun: Arséne: If those aren't the answers, then I'm out of answers. Sheepy: Sheepy: He recently came to me with his theory on what my real name is. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Oh no. Sheepy: Sheepy: He came to the conclusion that my name is Theodore because of the times I've joked that my name is The. Sheepy: Sheepy: I'm not a nerd, why would I be named that? Arsé-kun: Arséne: You'd rather your name over it? Sheepy: Sheepy: Is my name worse? Sheepy: Sheepy: It's uncreative, but... Sheepy: Sheepy: At least it's not Sherlock, whose name literally just means blond. Arsé-kun: Arséne: You do know most names are given for the way they sound and not the meaning nowadays, right? Sheepy: Sheepy: I do! Sheepy: Sheepy: ...But mine was given for the meaning, I think. ...Or...because, uhhh... Sheepy: Sheepy:...it's...really uncreative. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Because your father was a giant nerd. End of discussion. We're getting close. Sheepy: Sheepy: Thank you for telling me. Arsé-kun: Arséne: If you want me to get out pictures of the crime scene afterwards, I can. So you can see the small details that matter, like the giant space wall scroll. Sheepy: Sheepy: Crime scene? Arsé-kun: Arséne: You know, when he died? Or have you only retained looking at the lamp? Sheepy: Sheepy: What! No, I thought you meant here, at the casino... Arsé-kun: Arséne: Oh, no, no, non. Sheepy: Sheepy: Yeah, you confused me. Sheepy: Sheepy:...Mm, I don't see anyone.. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Me neither, but let us remember cameras and good security. Sheepy: Sheepy: Right. Sheepy: Sheepy: This is a casino, so.. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Lets take a higher entrance. Sheepy: *Sheepy takes Arsene's advice and begins heading up to look for another entrance * Arsé-kun rolled a die with 20 sides. The die showed: 1 Arsé-kun: *Sheepy promptly slips on a small patch of ice and falls off his higher perch. He lands in a bush. It's thorny, but he's mostly protected.* Sheepy: *Sheepy bites his tongue to stop himself from yelping. owowow* Arsé-kun: Arséne: ?? *he hurries over to pull Sheepy up and out* What happened? Were you pushed? And are you okay? Sheepy: Sheepy: I- ...*he grimaces* I slipped, that's all. Arséne: Ah, was it icy? We'll need a different entrance, then. Sheepy: Sheepy: Yes, unfortunately. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Stranger- It's a Friday night, and the place is nearly abandoned? Where is everyone..? Sheepy: Sheepy: Hmmm.... Sheepy: Sheepy: Good question. Sheepy: Sheepy: Oh, I know. They ran out of money. Arsé-kun: Arséne: I think we would have been told this information.. Sheepy: Sheepy:......Something really isn't right. Sheepy: Sheepy: With how empty it is, we could just go and get him now. ...But I don't think that's a good idea. Arsé-kun: Arséne: It can't be. Sheepy: Sheepy: ...Maybe they're predicting us. Arsé-kun: Arséne: They have Diego of all people. They probably expect police to show up, as well. We're not the pigs, thank god, but we might get caught up. Sheepy: Sheepy: ...Think about it. How could someone kidnapped send out a letter...? Sheepy: Sheepy:...To the Baker's street address no less. Sheepy: Sheepy: It bugs me. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Very carefully. That, or he had inside help. Sheepy: Sheepy: They might have intentionally let him to bring others in. Arsé-kun: Arséne: And if they get the great detective, who can stop them? Sheepy: Sheepy: Exactly. Sheepy: Sheepy: Imagine how much his head is worth within the criminal ring. Arsé-kun: Arséne: So, so much. At least three billion. Sheepy: Sheepy: How cunning of them. Sheepy: Sheepy: We need to help Diego without involving Sherlock.. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Harley and I already somewhat prepared. But with this new information, we're going to need some changes. Sheepy: Sheepy: Right. Sheepy: Sheepy: Anything more we should look for? Arsé-kun: Arséne: At this juncture? As much as possible. Sheepy: Sheepy: I'll keep looking for potential entrances, but I have a bad feeling about going in. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Understandable. It's probably too dangerous to. Sheepy: Sheepy: *he begins shifting to another position to find another entrance* Arsé-kun: *Arséne decides to do the same, in the opposite direction* Sheepy: *Genius idea: split up!* Arsé-kun: *THIS SHIT (HOPEFULLY) EMPTY! Y E E T! arséne flings himself over a fence. fuck u* Sheepy: *Sheepy, meanwhile, is more cautious, instead looking at it from a distance.* Arsé-kun: *very distant sound of a window breaking* Sheepy: Sheepy:?! *He goes to check it out.* Arsé-kun: *Arséne meets him there. It wasn't him, either, but there's a broken ass window. The glass is on the Outside ground, so someone used it to get OUT.* Sheepy: Sheepy:...? It wasn't you... Arsé-kun: Arséne: And it wasn't you. There are doors, but someone was this desperate..? Sheepy: Sheepy:...Maybe Diego isn't the only one in there. Sheepy: Sheepy: I don't like this. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Seems that way- ..! *he shuts up and presses up against the wall. other people are starting to become audible from inside!* Sheepy: *Sheepy quiets down and listens.* Arsé-kun: *It's mostly complaining about how they have to board up the windows now, to stop anyone else from trying the same stunt. Jokes about shooting people. It's, it's bad. I'd go on but half this shit is probably illegal x100. 4chan is preferable.* Sheepy: Sheepy:..! Sheepy: Sheepy: (...But where did the person who broke the window go?) Arsé-kun: Arséne: (They probably ran off. ... Not that it's a good idea. They broke glass..) Sheepy: Sheepy: (So they're probably injured. We need to find them if that's the case. Besides, what if they come out anf look around? We'll be caught.) Arsé-kun: Arséne: (We've gotta go, now.) Sheepy: *Sheepy starts sneaking away quickly.* Arsé-kun: *Arséne does the same* Sheepy: Sheepy: *As he leaves, he looks for any sign of the one who escaped* Arsé-kun rolled a die with 20 sides. The die showed: 3 Arsé-kun: *He doesn't see Shit* Sheepy: Sheepy: (I don't see any sign of them. Do you?) Arsé-kun rolled a die with 20 sides. The die showed: 19 Arsé-kun: Arséne: (There's a bit of blood here, as well as some broken twigs. They probably headed the same way.) Sheepy: Sheepy: (Let's follow them.) Arsé-kun: *and they resume going that direction.* Sheepy: Sheepy: (Do you think they're targeting phantom thieves?) Sheepy: Sheepy: (Maybe I should lay low for a while...) Arsé-kun: Arséne: (Then why would they want Sherlock? That's a direct opposite.) Sheepy: Sheepy: (I don't know...) Arsé-kun: *Arséne stops and looks around. Heard something?* Arsé-kun: *and then he looks up. Someone's in the tree! There's also a little bit of blood on the tree trunk, as a giveaway.* Arsé-kun: *He's like a squirrel! Either way, he makes it up to the person, who is cleaning and bandaging his wounds. Hello, Rupel, once again!* Sheepy: Sheepy: Ah...you should come with us, they might be after you. Sheepy: Sheepy: I'm not with them. I'm the phantom thief, Joker. Sheepy: Sheepy: I know a doctor. Arsé-kun: Rupel: I am phantom thief Rupis. A pleasure, and the help would be appreciated, Joker. Sheepy: Sheepy: I'll show you the way. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Please do. Sheepy: Sheepy: Do you need help getting down? Arsé-kun: Rupel: I don't. *and he starts making his way down* Sheepy: *Sheepy waits before coming down himself and leading the way* Arsé-kun: *Arséne takes up the back of the line. Just in case.* Sheepy: Sheepy: How did you get captured? Arsé-kun: Rupel: By getting involved. I didn't wanna touch it with a ten foot pole, I've got my own Joker to deal with. But I owe a massive favor to someone in there, so... There was more people then I expected. Sheepy: Sheepy: You mean Diego? Sheepy: Sheepy: We received a letter from him. He's my friend's dad. Arsé-kun: Arséne: ...?? Sheepy: Sheepy:.... Sheepy: Sheepy:.....I- I meant. Sheepy: Sheepy: Dad's friend. Arsé-kun: Rupel: *he tries to ignore the screw-up. success?* ... That is who I was referring to. Acquaintances, then? Sheepy: Sheepy: Uh? I guess so. Sheepy: Sheepy: I don't know if he's a dad or not, that was a mistake. I haven't talked too much with him. Sheepy: Sheepy: Unless you mean us, it's good if we all get along. In the end, our goal is to improve the lives of those who are suffering, and we need to work together to accomplish that. Arsé-kun: Rupel: I did mean the former, but you have a point. Multiple, in fact. Arsé-kun: Rupel: ... But I suppose I should tell you what it's like in there. Arsé-kun: Rupel: It's horrible. There's no regard for human life. They just wanted the building and the contents. Everyone else is just a bonus to them. Arsé-kun: *He looks disgusted. Nauseated, even* Sheepy: Sheepy:...We need to get Diego out as soon as possible. Sheepy: Sheepy: Did they mention Sherlock Holmes at all? Sheepy: Sheepy: The letter we received was addressed to 221B Bakers Street. Sheepy: Sheepy:...However, oddly enough, it was directed to "Herlock Sholmes" - not Sherlock Holmes... Which sounds like a very lazy anagram for Sherlock Holmes, but Herlock Sholmes isn't Sherlock Holmes. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Not that I am aware of? Sheepy: Sheepy: We were theorizing that they were setting Sherlock up. Sheepy: Sheepy: We're getting close to our destination. Sheepy: Sheepy: --here. There's other people living here, but they don't care. Sheepy: Sheepy:...Should I call him first, or just burst in and wake him up? Arsé-kun: Arséne: The second has the chance of annoying anyone else in range. Sheepy: *Sheepy calls Watson!* Arsé-kun: *Watson picks up on the third ring, and just* Arsé-kun: Watson: What. Sheepy: Sheepy: I have a patient for you. A witness for Harley's case. He's injured. He broke a window, which he lept out of. Arsé-kun: Watson: fuck me right up, captain kirk. Bring him in. Sheepy: Sheepy: Here, follow me. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Because there's anywhere else to go..? Arsé-kun: *Rupel does follow Sheepy. Arséne goes to make a quick lap around the street to make sure they weren't followed* Sheepy: *Wilson starts barking loudly as soon as Rupel enters* Arsé-kun: Watson: Wilson, please, no... Sheepy: Wilson: *He looks up at Watson before looking over at Rupel* Sheepy: Sheepy: This is the guy. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Apologies for setting off your dog alarm. Sheepy: Sheepy: Wilson is a good boy and he's doing his best. Sheepy: Harley: *He groggily looks up from the desk. Apparently he conked out there* Who is it...? Arsé-kun: Watson: Either use your own eyes or go to bed. In your actual bed. I'd like my desk back, you fiend. Sheepy: Harley: I'm comfortable here. Sheepy: Harley: But you need it for your client, don't you? *He gets up* Come on, Wilson. It's time for bed. Sheepy: *Harley walks out with Wilson, who's wagging his tail. he's excited!* Sheepy: Sheepy: Watson, do you need me to get anything? Sheepy: *Sherlock is still snoring away on the sofa. he apparently slept through Wilson* Arsé-kun: *that's not surprising at all* Arsé-kun: Watson: Not yet. *he pulls out a med kit from under the desk. it is not the only one down there. overprepared* Sheepy: Sheepy: ...*ewwwww* Arsé-kun: Watson: ... And this, Sheepy, is why you don't jump out a window unless you absolutely have to. Sheepy: Sheepy: I know, I know! Sheepy: Sheepy: I won't. Sheepy: Sheepy: I hope Diego isn't too bad off. Arsé-kun: Watson: How was it there, by the by? Sheepy: Sheepy: I slipped off a ledge and fell into a bush, so there's that. Sheepy: Sheepy: Otherwise? Arsé-kun: Watson: Otherwise. Sheepy: Sheepy: The only notable thing was how empty it was. Sheepy: Sheepy:...And our friend here breaking out.... Sheepy: Sheepy: They plan to tighten the security, it seems. Sheepy: Sheepy: We came to a conclusion, but his testimony shoots holes in that theory. Sheepy: Sheepy: I still think it's important to mention. Arsé-kun: Watson: Then please do so I may write it down. Sheepy: Sheepy: We think they may be targeting Sherlock with that letter Diego sent. Sheepy: Sheepy: It was not written to "Harley", nor was it written to "Sherlock". It was written to "Herlock Sholmes"... Sheepy: Sheepy: Now, I don't want to act like Holmes here, but... the details I heard about the letter makes me suspicious. Sheepy: Sheepy: Based on what I heard, it's a fairly easy code to figure out...and the name is clearly a very bad attempt to hide the recipient while still making it clear who it is for. The mere presence of 221B Baker's street on the letter is enough to tip off any criminal. Sheepy: Sheepy: You think he was forced to write it, but knowing that they'd assume Herlock Sholmes is Sherlock Holmes, he went with that name? Arsé-kun: Rupel: May I rudely ruin your conclusion for a second time? Sheepy: Sheepy: Go ahead. Arsé-kun: Rupel: As the one who slipped it into the mail slot, I can deconfirm. Sheepy: Sheepy: Ah...so it was you who delivered it...! Sheepy: Sheepy: Thank you for doing that. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Does this house always get that much mail..? Sheepy: Sheepy: Well, it's Sherlock Holmes's house. Sheepy: Sheepy:...Watson, do you know? I don't really pay attention to the mail. Arsé-kun: Watson: It is always that bad. Sheepy: Sheepy: Does this mean you met with Diego? Arsé-kun: Rupel: I did. I will confirm that. Sheepy: Sheepy: How is he? Arsé-kun: Rupel: He's starting to decline in health. Any people in there are not being fed quite well. Sheepy: Sheepy: That's, uh, not good. Arsé-kun: Rupel: It's not. I brought some food after I returned, but.. That got the only entry I had sealed. Thus, window exit. Sheepy: Sheepy: So we know, will we need to plan to bring him to a hospital once he's out, do you think? Sheepy: Sheepy: Him being a criminal complicates things. Arsé-kun: Rupel: They don't need to know that. He's just a hostage like the rest. They all need the attention. Sheepy: Sheepy: That's true. Sheepy: Sheepy: How are they targeting potential hostages? Arsé-kun: Rupel: Easy. Were they inside at the time? If yes, hostage. Sheepy: Sheepy:...T, time? They just up and decided to make a whole casino of people hostages??? Sheepy: Sheepy: Why...?! Arsé-kun: Rupel: Maybe? I wasn't there at the time. And it doesn't look like there are enough people now to make it full. Sheepy: Sheepy: We'll have to ask Diego. Sheepy: Sheepy:...I didn't think he was the gambling type... Sheepy: Sheepy: But maybe there's a reason beyond that. I thought he was maybe stealing from them wnd got caught. Sheepy: Sheepy:...but there's no way to back that up until we talk to him, because... Sheepy: Sheepy: Diego doesn't leave advance notices like other gentleman thieves for whatever reason. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Because he's not a gentleman thief. He uses his swords far more than any of us would allow for. *there he is!* Sheepy: Sheepy: Oh, true. He's just a modern day Robin Hood. Arsé-kun: Arséne: I still fully intend to steal his swords for fun. Don't let me forget. Sheepy: Sheepy: He'd be everything we consider detestable if he kept his prizes for himself. Arsé-kun: Arséne: But he does not. Sheepy: Sheepy: Exactly. Sheepy: Sheepy: So he's problematic and has room for improvement but the thought is there. Sheepy: Sheepy: ...... Arsé-kun: Arséne: Sure. Sheepy: Sheepy: Hey, wait. Sheepy: Sheepy: Doesn't he have a horse? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Yes..? Sheepy: Sheepy: Is it okay not having anyone care for it? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Probably, but it'd be best to check on it. Sheepy: Sheepy: We should just in case. Eh, but... Sheepy: Sheepy: Horses are terrifying. We need a sacrifice. A meat shield. Sheepy: Sheepy: Horses will eat people. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Please stop reminding me. Sheepy: Sheepy: Who should we bring? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Not me, and not Tom. Have fun. Sheepy: Sheepy: What! Sheepy: Sheepy: Fine, I'll use Sherlock as a meat shield. Sheepy: Sheepy: He likes animals. Maybe Tornado won't eat him. Sheepy: Sheepy: Oh, or Watson. Sheepy: Sheepy: Watson, come be horse bait for me. Arsé-kun: Watson: I have work tomorrow. Sheepy: Sheepy: Shoot. Sheepy: Sheepy: Who is good with horses? Sheepy: Sheepy:...You know, actually? Sheepy: Sheepy: Not Sherlock. He loves animals but he's awful with them... Sheepy: Sheepy: He's too in their space and noisy. Sheepy: Sheepy: I'll just bring Nyar. He's an eldritch horror just like horses. They should get along. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Close enough. *and he exits scene, waiting until he reaches the hall to yawn, it is late and he is Tired* Sheepy: Nyar: Oh, you're back? Sheepy: Nyar: Be careful. Stay sharp. Keep your eyes. That's how the phrase goes, yeah? Sheepy: Nyar: I heard about the mess. I'd rather see it play out than help, so good luck with it. Arsé-kun: Arséne: That makes it much easier for me to deal with. Sheepy: Nyar: Whaaat? How is it easier? Sheepy: Nyar: I'm valuable! Sheepy: Nyar: No one else here can become animals. ...Not tha you need it for understanding them. You've already got that position filled. Sheepy: Nyar: Really, I don't have any other skills. Sheepy: Nyar: That skill may be useful, so... Sheepy: Nyar: For that horse. Maybe. Sheepy: Nyar: I wouldn't know i the horse knows anything. Arsé-kun: Arséne: If you thought I was going to ask, you're wrong. It's late and I don't care. Sheepy: Nyar: Eh!! Arsé-kun: Arséne: *he does, in fact, care very much, and is going to use this information later on.* Sheepy: Nyar: I drop juicy gossip like this and you won't even act on it?! Arsé-kun: Arséne: Maybe in the morning, but not Now. Sheepy: Nyar: Oh, understandable. Don't bite the bed bugs. Sheepy: Nyar: Let. Arsé-kun: Arséne: ... Did you just have a stroke. Sheepy: Nyar: That's how it goes, yeah? Arsé-kun: Arséne: N... Non. I'm, uh, going to go now. Sheepy: Nyar: Alright. Arsé-kun: *Arséne exits scene to get out of his thief suit and go the Fuck to bed* Sheepy: *good night arsene* Sheepy: *in the morning, Harley's drinking coffee and looking over the newspaper* Arsé-kun: Arséne: I've got news for you. Arsé-kun: *and arséne relays everything from the adventure last night. he knows all the patch-up talk too, because he came back and eavesdropped for a bit like a lil bitch* Arsé-kun: Arséne: ... So all in all, we don't need to be a couple at all, but we can still do it anyway to mess with people. Sheepy: Harley: Good work. Sheepy: Harley: As a thank you for your hard work, I'll treat you to a meal sometime. Your choice on the place. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Oh, that sounds fantastic, but I'll save thinking about that until after. Sheepy: Harley: Alright. Arsé-kun: Arséne: The new problem comes from this- You'd be valuable in finding if poor Tornado knows anything, but I'd also like you to come with me. You can't be in both places at once, and we're not bringing a horse. Sheepy: Harley: *He chokes on his coffee* I-I'm sorry- *cough, cough*- Arsé-kun: Arséne: *he leans over and gives Harley a solid back pat. stop dying will you?* Sheepy: Harley: Yer jus' makin' fings up now! Me? Wh-what use would I 'ave fer- *cough, cough* Arsé-kun: Arséne: *he leans back and crosses his legs* You're from the cockney now? Haven't heard you get that stressed since I eluded you back in whats-it-called. *he tips an imaginary hat to Harley* And a gud day'ta ya, Mistah Homes! *and boy does he look SMUG.* Sheepy: Harley: Yeh can't jus' be snoopin' around on- You can't just be looking into people's business! How did you find out!? I haven't told anyone! Arsé-kun: Arséne: You talk to squirrels. *a pause* ... Also, a certain someone confirmed it for me. I was hoping to figure this one out on my own. Sheepy: Harley: Everyone talks to animals! Arsé-kun: Arséne: Say it a bit louder! Tell everyone else while you're at it! Sheepy: Harley: Shut up, people will hear! Arsé-kun: Arséne: So how about that airline food?! Sheepy: Harley: Don't tell anyone. Sheepy: Harley: We'll go see Tornado first. Arsé-kun: Arséne: If anyone finds out about it, it won't be from me. Sheepy: Harley: Fine. Arsé-kun: *Meanwhile, Impey is about as noticed as any other setpiece. He's been here the entire time. If he says anything, he'll be yelled at. Time to be lonely.* Sheepy: Nyar: *He puts his hand on Impey's shoulder from behind him* Hey. Arsé-kun: Impey: Hm? *he turns his head to look at Nyar* If you're gonna ask for something I'm not cooking, it isn't happening! Sheepy: Nyar: Nah, I don't eat human food usually. Sheepy: Nyar: I eat it for the experience. Pure curiosity. Arsé-kun: Impey: That won't stop you from slapping some alien limb on the counter and asking for it fried. Sheepy: Nyar: Well, yes, but I'm not hungry. Sheepy: Nyar: You like the ocean? I hear some world traveling cruise ship is coming here for its voyage. Arsé-kun: Arséne: what does that have to do with literally anything. Sheepy: Nyar: You might find a member or two to be of significance. Sheepy: Nyar: I hear the captain was once a doctor. He must be an incredible captain, considering he survived a trip to the north pole unprepared. Arsé-kun: *This earns Arséne's still rather flat stare, but also Impey's interest* Sheepy: Nyar: Oh? Impey, you might be familiar with him. Sheepy: Nyar: You wanna know his name? Sheepy: Nyar: If you let me try your cooking, I'll tell you his name. Arsé-kun: Impey: Oh? I thought you didn't care for it? Sheepy: Nyar: Well...! Sheepy: Nyar: Your food isn't human food. Arsé-kun: Impey: ... Thanks! :D *he is not actually happy about this statement at all. not one bit* Sheepy: Nyar: So...! It's a deal. Sheepy: Nyar: When you met Victor, did you think it was weird that he was recreating a few hundred year old book's contents down to sharing his name with the protagonist? Sheepy: Nyar: Let's say the protagonist wasn't actually human. He might be more likely to survive seemingly deadly pneumonia while he's at the North Pole. Arsé-kun: Impey: But wasn't it not all his choice... Hey, can we maybe talk about this when I'm not cooking? Sheepy: Nyar: Hmmm? Okay, okay, I can wait. Sheepy: Nyar: But let me try your cooking when you're done. Sheepy: *Nyar strolls over to the table and plops down* Arsé-kun: *Arséne opted to ignore Nyar and Impey's conversation. Newspaper important* Sheepy: Harley: *He's focused on his coffee* Arsé-kun: *if they ignore impey then he didnt hear anything, right* Sheepy: *that's how it works!* Sheepy: Harley: Lupin, do you think anyone actually truly likes the flavor of coffee? It's so bitter... Sheepy: Harley: It'd be healthier if I cut it out of my diet, but it's vital some days. Arsé-kun: Arséne: It's highly likely. It's like how people will eat hot peppers. Sheepy: Harley: Gross. Sheepy: Harley: It's like alcohol. Sheepy: Harley: You sneak it when your parent won't let you have it and then find you hate it and that they were right all along. Sheepy: Harley:...Not that I ever did that. Sheepy: Harley: But you see the point. Arsé-kun: Watson: Yeah, right, just get the sugar for yourself. *hello watson!! he looks tired, as per usual* Sheepy: Harley: I don't need it. Arsé-kun: Watson: Sure. *he pours coffee for himself. his savior, the only thing he worships, caffeine* Sheepy: Harley: I can drink things I don't like. Sheepy: Harley: For example, the many times when I was younger and had to drink medicine for whatever I came down with. Sheepy: Harley: By the way, you didn't hear my discussion with Lupin, did you? Arsé-kun: Watson: Did I? That's your problem. Sheepy: Harley:...You did, didn't you. Sheepy: Harley: You're not offended I didn't tell you earlier, are you? No one was supposed to find out. Arsé-kun: Watson: Not at all, not one bit! *he is, in fact, offended* I would have certainly figured it out on my own eventually. Sheepy: Harley: I see. I'm glad to hear that. Sheepy: Nyar: Oh wow! Sheepy: Nyar: I love it when you're bitter. Sheepy: Nyar: Wow, I made the right choice, telling Lupin instead of you! Ahahahaha! Sheepy: Harley: ...Ah, so you are offended. *He looks down at his coffee* I really do trust you, but trust is something that is limited - it has boundaries. It can only go so far. Even if you mean well, things happen. Once a secret is out, it can't be taken back. Arsé-kun: Watson: Which I understand, but did you think I'd share it? *he shoots Nyar a death glare. he WILL have scalding hot emo coffee poured on him at this rate* Sheepy: Harley: Perhaps. As I said, things happen. Arsé-kun: Watson: Fair point. Sheepy: Harley: Let's say, for example, you're put into a situation where you have two options. I quickly came to the conclusion that you would look upon such a secret as worth less than your life, and most secrets are. And so, in a hostage situation, you would most certainly reveal it. Sheepy: Harley: However, looking at what happened to my parents, to you, it's "my secret or your life", when in actuality, it's "my life or your life". Arsé-kun: Watson: But in that sort of case, they'd probably go after you as well, no matter what I say. Your life or your life. A classic Morton's fork. Sheepy: Harley: I know. Sheepy: Harley: I just didn't want anyone knowing. Sheepy: Nyar: That's not really why, is it? Aren't you the one who said that you refuse to lie? *He tilts his head some* The biggest liars assure those around them that they're honest. Arsé-kun: Watson: Do me a favor and shut your mouth. Arsé-kun: Watson: All of them. Sheepy: Nyar: Hey, I'm just telling you. You want him to be honest with you, right? Sheepy: Nyar: So I'm here to tell you when he's lying! Aren't I a good friend! The real reason why he didn't tell you is because he sus- Sheepy: Harley: Shaddup, yeh lyin' piece o' trash! What d'yeh know, spoutin' off 'bout people yeh barely know? Yer jus tryin' t' git under my skin! Sheepy: Nyar: And that's the reaction I wanted! Thanks for making my morning great! Arsé-kun: *Watson promptly pours his coffee onto Nyar.* Sheepy: Nyar: Ow!!! Sheepy: Nyar: Why?! Don’t you want to know this?! Sheepy: Nyar: It’s super interesting! Arsé-kun: Watson: Consider the following! Arsé-kun: Watson: Stop speaking. Sheepy: Nyar: But...! Arsé-kun: Watson: So, what's the weather supposed to be like today? Sheepy: Harley: ...I, uh, don’t know. Sheepy: Harley: *He hasn’t looked up from his coffee. he apparently doesn’t want to make eye contact.* Sheepy: Harley: Probably sunny. Arsé-kun: Arséne: I certainly hope so. *he hasn't lowered the newspaper* Sheepy reported the higher areas of the place being icy. Sheepy: Harley: Ah, I forgot you were there. Sheepy: Harley: It’d be helpful if it was sunny. Especially if we’re visiting Tornado first. Sheepy: Harley: I don’t need breakfast. I can go when you’re ready. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Eh? So you can eat food when we're working? Sheepy: Harley: What? Sheepy: Harley: Time is in essence. Arsé-kun: Watson: Then bring food with you. Sheepy: Nyar: *He leans back some, tilting his head* Sheepy: Harley: Fine. Sheepy: Harley: It might convince Tornado to talk. Arsé-kun: Watson: If you feed it all to the horse and don't eat it, I'll personally hire Nyar to drag you back home. Sheepy: Harley: Good luck. Arsé-kun: Watson: I don't need luck. Doing that means I'm free from hearing his voice. And if you actually eat, then I can go out myself, and have the same result. Sheepy: Harley: Why would you not be able to go out? Sheepy: Harley: Does me eating fuel your movement? Are you a parasite? Arsé-kun: Watson: Because I'd be babysitting you like a child until you eat. Again. Sheepy: Harley: I just have some things to think about. Arsé-kun: Watson: So you can't multitask? Sheepy: Harley: I can’t, it seems. Sheepy: Harley: I just have no appetite. Arsé-kun: Watson: Is there a good reason for it, or is it because of this squid? Sheepy: Nyar: See, I’m a good weight loss plan! ... Not that you need it - you’re as thin as a rail. Sheepy: Harley: Yes. Arsé-kun: Watson: I see. Please bring something with you. Sheepy: Nyar: I’m a good reason! Sheepy: Nyar: ...Apparently. Sheepy: Harley: Fine. Sheepy: Harley: I may need it for Tornado. Sheepy: Harley: If there’s anything left, I’ll consider it. Arsé-kun: Arséne: I've suddenly gotten deja vu. I wonder why. Sheepy: Harley: Is it because I said that a minute ago? Arsé-kun: Arséne: It was a minute ago? I must be getting old. Sheepy: Harley: I don’t know. Sheepy: Harley: I meant it figuratively. Sheepy: Nyar: I’ll eat your breakfast. Sheepy: Harley: Shut up. Sheepy: Nyar: You should try to be more honest. Your lies might lead you to lose what you value most. You never know. Sheepy: Nyar: For example! You actually want your breakfast, right? But since you lied about not wanting it, I’m gonna eat it. Sheepy: Nyar: Human food tastes weird. Arsé-kun: Impey: You're weird! What's your point??? Sheepy: Nyar: There’s no point. Sheepy: Nyar: I’m just saying pointed remarks because I can! Sheepy: Nyar: With some advice mixed in, if you look hard enough. Sheepy: *Harley gets up* Sheepy: Harley: I’ll be waiting for you. Arsé-kun: Arséne: I'll be quick. I don't need to get an umbrella or anything. Arsé-kun: *timeskip bc we are going to derail at this rate* Arsé-kun: Arséne: *he's getting Drenched. it is raining.* I've made a mistake. Sheepy: Harley: It's just rain. Sheepy: Harley: *He's getting drenched, too, but his expression is neutral* Do you want my coat? Sheepy: Harley: I don't need it. Rain doesn't bother me. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Non. We'll just have to get a change of clothes is all. *he looks miserable* Sheepy: Harley: Ah, you hate the rain, don't you? Sheepy: Harley: It's always been a form of comfort for me. Whenever I'm sad or upset, it always seems to help me relax. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Lucky you. Sheepy: Harley: I suppose. Sheepy: Harley: I just see it as... Sheepy: Harley: Even if you're all alone, rain will be there for you, right? Even if you've cast everyone away, rain will be there for you. It doesn't care who you are, it'll rain on you just the same. Sheepy: Harley: I don't know if that helps. Arsé-kun: Arséne: I can see your point... Sheepy: Harley: That's good. Sheepy: Harley: Are we close? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Fairly certain! Sheepy: Harley: I see. Tornado must be cold... Sheepy: Harley: Did you eat breakfast? Arsé-kun: Arséne: I did. Did you? Sheepy: Harley: No. Arsé-kun: Arséne: If you die from undernourishment, it's your own damn fault. Sheepy: Harley: I live with a doctor. Sheepy: Harley: He nags me but doesn't force me to do anything. Sheepy: Harley: Therefore, it's not my fault. Sheepy: Harley: I shouldn't be expected to do something purely because I'm nagged about it. Sheepy: Harley: Don't tell him I said that, of course. Arsé-kun: Arséne: .... If you end up in the hospital, I'll show up just to spite you. Sheepy: Harley: Why would I end up in the hospital? Sheepy: Harley: I eat, drink, and sleep, just as anyone should. I just do each one less than the average person. Arsé-kun: Arséne: That's the answer right there. Sheepy: Harley: I feel normal. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Congrats. Arsé-kun: *distant horse sound* Sheepy: Harley: ...I mean, other than weight lo- ah? That must be Tornado. Sheepy: Harley: We're getting close. Sheepy: Harley: He sounds lonely. Arsé-kun: Arséne: *he whistles for Tornado. Tornado arrives! He is also drenched. Horse head is plopped on Arséne's shoulder. oh god the wet* Sheepy: Harley: *horse!!!* Sheepy: Harley: *He puts out his hand to pet Tornado* Arsé-kun: *Tornado goes and sniffs Harley's hand before snuffling. you are Acceptable* Sheepy: Harley: Are you hungry? I have food for you. Arsé-kun: *Harley gets a horse sound in his face. Food! Food! Fooodddd!* Arsé-kun: *Tornado nearly takes his hand off in excitement. Carrot!!!* Sheepy: Harley: Can I ask a question or two about Diego? We're trying to help him. Arsé-kun: Tornado: *he cocks his head to the side* Sheepy: Harley: He's being held hostage. Sheepy: Harley: Did he tell you why he was going to the casino? Arsé-kun: Tornado: *snuffle-whiny. he's got no idea.* Sheepy: Harley: I see. Sheepy: Harley: That's too bad. Sheepy: Harley: Did he seem at all afraid or scared before he disappeared? Arsé-kun: Tornado: *snuffle* Sheepy: Harley: I see. Did anyone visit him before his disappearance? Arsé-kun: *Tornado snuffles again, before looking back and neighing. And then up trots a little filly! Small horse. A friend.* Sheepy: Harley: ...! Sheepy: *Harley takes out another carrot and offers it to the filly* Arsé-kun: *The filly takes it, slowly. She's unsure but she also wants it!* Sheepy: Harley: Your friend will be back soon, okay? Sheepy: Harley: We'll help him so he can come back to you two. Arsé-kun: *The filly replies with a small neigh. precious* Sheepy: Harley: *aaaaaaa it's so CUTE* Sheepy: Harley: Your information has been very helpful. Thank you. Arsé-kun: *various horse sounds. im very good at this* Sheepy: Harley: I don't know how long it'll be before I'm back, so... Sheepy: *Harley empties the contents of the bag. Some apples and assorted veggies.* Sheepy: Harley: I brought these for you. Sheepy: Harley: I'll try to be back soon. Arsé-kun: *the horses enjoy the food. hooray!* Arsé-kun: *and then the porch light turns on!* Sheepy: Harley:...! Sheepy: *Harley rushes over!* Arsé-kun: Arséne: *he opens the door for Harley* Sheepy: Harley: Lupin... Arsé-kun: Arséne: What? I know where he keeps his key. Sheepy: Harley: Have you found any information? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Oh. Nothing of value yet. Sheepy: Harley: It appears that he went there on a whim, but... Sheepy: Harley: He's not one to gamble, is he? Arsé-kun: Arséne: He'll do it once in a while? Sheepy: Harley: I see. Arsé-kun: Arséne: ... Are you going to stand there or come on? Sheepy: Harley: I, uh... Sheepy: Harley: It's ... Sheepy: Harley: Illegal for me to go in...isn't it? Arsé-kun: Arséne: I legally entered by having his permission to know where the key is. I invite you in. Shut up and go get a towel. Sheepy: *Harley heads inside, visibly nervous* Arsé-kun: *it's a nice place. arséne grabs a towel and hands it to Harley* Sheepy: *Harley begins drying off* Sheepy: Harley: Horses, you mean. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Since when? Sheepy: Harley: I don't know. Sheepy: Harley: There's a little white filly with Tornado. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Must be new.. Sheepy: Harley: Do you think it's associated? Arsé-kun: *The aforementioned filly trots right in past them. It's free real estate.* Arsé-kun: Arséne: I doubt it, but it's possible. Sheepy: Harley: Oh dear.. Arsé-kun: *this sofa? it's hers now. she is in charge of the soft bedding.* Sheepy: Harley: Oh, he's going to kill us. Sheepy: Harley:...Wait.... Sheepy: Harley:...Does he not keep them fenced in so they don't run away? Does he trust them that much? Sheepy: Harley: If he does, how did they get out? Arsé-kun: Arséne: I've never seen Tornado go off property without Diego, so I'd say yes. Sheepy: Harley: Hmm. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Also, he can open fences. Sheepy: Harley:.... Sheepy: Harley: Oh. Arsé-kun: *Tornado, meanwhile, is standing right at the door. Like he's waiting for permission to enter. He's so smart.* Sheepy: Harley: Oh, um, come in. Sheepy: Harley: When did Diego get the other horse, Tornado? Arsé-kun: *Tornado steps in, and lays down on the carpet before looking at Harley. Huffs.* Sheepy: Harley: I see. Sheepy: Harley: Was she a gift from someone? Arsé-kun: *Another head tilt. Maybe?* Sheepy: Harley: I see. Thank you. Arsé-kun: Arséne: *he looks outstandingly lost.* Sheepy: Harley: Unfortunately, Diego never taught Tornado how to count. Sheepy: Harley: However, the filly may have been a gift. He isn't sure. Sheepy: Harley: What should we do now? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Borrow an umbrella and go get him?? Sheepy: Harley: *He grabs the nearest umbrella* Sheepy: Harley: Let's go. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Right. Allons-y. Sheepy: *They head to the casino!* Arsé-kun: *Well, it looks the same as last night, except the large, boarded up window. Gee whiz.* Sheepy: Harley: Hmm. Sheepy: Harley: I'm not suspicious at all. Arsé-kun: Arséne: It's the weekend and there is zero traffic here. Sheepy: Harley: .......I was being sarcastic. Does it really fit me that little? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Fully aware. Just informing. Sheepy: Harley: Thank you. Sheepy: Harley: How will we help them? Do we break in...? Arsé-kun: Arséne: We'll have to. Sheepy: Harley: Let's go, then. Sheepy: Harley: Here is an idea. Sheepy: Harley: They currently have the high ground. Sheepy: Harley: Let's call for police backup and bring them out and away from the hostages. Sheepy: Harley: We set a fire nearby. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Not bad, but we don't know what they'll do to the hostages. They might shoot first and ask later. Sheepy: Harley: True Sheepy: Harley:...then what do we do? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Steal uniforms? Sheepy: Harley: Alright. Sheepy: Harley: Do we just wait for people to come out, or...? Arsé-kun: Arséne: That's our best bet, I suppose. Sheepy: Harley: *He goes and hide* Arsé-kun: *Arséne follows him, but isn't sure about this plan* Sheepy: Harley: And now we wait, right? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Well, yes... But if we strip them of their uniforms, we'll be leaving them out in the cold. Sheepy: Harley:...! Sheepy: Harley: We can't do that. Arsé-kun: Arséne: That's the problem. Sheepy: Harley:.... Sheepy: Harley: Perhaps two people aren't enough. Arsé-kun: Arséne: ... Are you thinking what I'm thinking? Sheepy: Harley: What? Arsé-kun: Arséne: We call in backup. Sheepy: Harley: Fine. Sheepy: *Suddenly, someone grabs Arsene from behind! ...Or, uh, hugs him? Tightly?* Sheepy: *They're sopping wet, whoever they are- and they're wearing a t-shirt. Hello, Sherlock.* Arsé-kun: Arséne: *he would've jumped several meters if not for Sherlock holding on.* I didn't hear your approach..! Sheepy: Sherlock: Hullo! Sheepy: Harley:!? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Have you been following us?? Sheepy: Sherlock: Will you make me go home if I say yes? Arsé-kun: Arséne: I suppose not! Sheepy: Sherlock: Okay, I was following you. Sheepy: Harley: You're going to get sick wearing that. Sheepy: Sherlock: Germs are scared of hot people. Arsé-kun: Rupel: how do you put up with this. Sheepy: Harley: I don't, sometimes. Sheepy: Sherlock: It's a scientific fact. Have you ever seen Arsene sick? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Th-this isn't the time for this! Sheepy: Harley: We have a hostage situation to deal with. Sheepy: Sherlock: Okay, I'll continue complimenting you later then. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Ehh, I might have an idea for a new plan. Sheepy: Sherlock: What is it? Sheepy: Harley: Do you? I'd like to hear it. Arsé-kun: *arsene leans in to explain his dastardly plan* Sheepy: Sherlock: Oh, I see! Arsé-kun: Rupel: I firmly hate it. I agree with it, but I hate it. Sheepy: Harley: It's risky, but... Sheepy: Harley: It's better than relying on that squid. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Anything is better than that! Arsé-kun: Rupel: .... Squid? Sheepy: Sherlock: Uh? He'd probably kill the hostages himself. Arsé-kun: Arséne: The point continues to stand. Sheepy: Harley: Nyarlathotep. He harasses Watson often and occasionally helps us. That's what I mean by squid. Arsé-kun: Rupel: ... I'm not quite sure I follow, but I think I understand.. *he shudders* But lets not rely on anyone.. Aggressive? Sheepy: Harley: We can leave him as a last hope. Arsé-kun: Arséne: At this point, I'm more willing to ask his old man then him. Sheepy: Harley: I... Sheepy: Harley: Don't like his dad. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Who does? But even he knows what the word "Stop" means. Sheepy: Harley:....Uh. Arsé-kun: Arséne: ... We've derailed. Sheepy: Harley: Yes, well, we'll keep him as a last hope. However, I don't want to interact at all with his dad. Sheepy: Harley: Let's try your plan. Arsé-kun: Arséne: We'll need the components first. Once we've got that, we'll be set. Sheepy: Harley: Right. Arsé-kun: Rupel: I know the layout. I'll get the supplies. Sheepy: Harley: Thank you. Arsé-kun: *Rupel scurries away and around the corner. bye rupel* Sheepy: Harley: Hmm. Arsé-kun: *Rupel returns a questionable amount of time later, carrying a bundle. He did it!* Arsé-kun: Rupel: Made it. *he hands the bundle over. On a closer look, he's got an eyepatch-styled bandage on when he didn't before.* Sheepy: Harley:...! Are you okay!? Arsé-kun: Rupel: Peachy! Sheepy: Harley: But your face? Arsé-kun: Rupel: It's fine. Arsé-kun: *it is not fine. he is very bitter.* Sheepy: Harley: Go back to Watson when we’re done here. Arsé-kun: Rupel: I'll consider it. Sheepy: Harley: Do it. Arsé-kun: Rupel: I have my own business to take care of. I will consider it. Sheepy: Harley: Fine. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Thanks. So we're really doing this..? Sheepy: Harley: Yes, we are. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Unfortunate. I'll participate, but I adamantly refuse to be the one in cuffs. Arsé-kun: *SHARP SCENE CUT. To Rupel, in cuffs, being shoved inside by a guard. He looks even MORE bitter.* Sheepy: ???: ‘nd stay, yeh tricky scoundrel. Yer causin’ trouble right ‘nd lef. Arsé-kun: Rupel: *he scowls, defeated.* Sheepy: ???: *He struts off* Arsé-kun: *Rupel plants his ass on the ground. It's not like he can do much else.* Sheepy: *??? is analyzing the surroundings.* Arsé-kun: *where is currently is, is a lot of grunts dicking around. they're not even slightly worried.* Sheepy: *??? is pleased by this* Arsé-kun: *he is free to act at this point* Sheepy: *He lets Sherlock and Lupin in!* Arsé-kun: Arséne: Fantastique. *he's also geared up to match the grunts* Were you given no problems? Sheepy: Harley: Yes. Arsé-kun: Arséne: I see. Then this might be easier than I'd predicted. Sheepy: Harley: Maybe. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Only a maybe? Sheepy: Harley: I don't want to guarantee anything. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Fair. Sheepy: Sherlock: *He is keeping a close eye on their surroundings* Sheepy: Harley: Let's continue. Sheepy: *Harley heads back in* Arsé-kun: *Rupel is peering into the hallway. He sees Harley and zips away* Sheepy: *Harley does nothing about this. All is going as planned* Arsé-kun rolled a die with 20 sides. The die showed: 3 Arsé-kun rolled a die with 20 sides. The die showed: 17 Arsé-kun: *Rupel goes to sneak to another part of the casino, but is IMMEDIATELY spotted. He bails and returns to square 1.* Sheepy: *noooo rupel* Arsé-kun rolled a die with 20 sides. The die showed: 1 Arsé-kun: *He goes for a second attempt, and stumbles over a bit of crumpled rug. Local man eats shit, and carpet. When he tries to recover, he smacks into the wall, because one of his eyes are covered- His spacial perception's a bit off. He gives up on the spot.* Sheepy: Harley: --Oi, c'n I ask yeh somefin'? *He has approached another grunt* Arsé-kun: grunt: yes. what's it you, You wanna know, bucko? Sheepy: Harley: These 'ostages, what'll become o' 'em? Sheepy: Harley: Ain't it annoyin', worryin' that they c'd run away? Arsé-kun: grunt: Yeh know? I dunno either. It's up to the boss, but it's so annoyin'. *he unpockets and throws a few poker chips at Rupel, who just takes it.* This one's the only one tryin' anymore. Sheepy: Harley: 'E's jus' got a lil' more stamina than th' rest. Oh well. Too bad the boss doesn't tell us anythin'. Sheepy: Harley: Any idea when 'e'll do somefin' wif 'em? It feels like an eternity. Arsé-kun: grunt: If I knew, I'd tell ya. Sheepy: Harley: Well, thanks anyway. Arsé-kun: grunt: Yeh, of course. Jus'don't miss your shift. Sheepy: Harley: Right. Arsé-kun: *meanwhile, Arséne's investigating nearby. He hasn't found much of value, but he's gotten into a game of darts. Yep. Investigating.* Sheepy: *Sherlock is watching* Arsé-kun: *Rupel finally drags himself up again, pulling out a little blue bunny and carefully going down the hall. He doesn't want to fall again.* Sheepy: *Usalock says nothing, but is ready for use! Apparently he's been muted.* Arsé-kun: *Now that he's being careful, Rupel is having more success in being sneaky.* Sheepy: *good job!* Arsé-kun: *he goes on ahead. He wants to release Usalock behind himself, but isn't sure if the current shift is nearby.* Sheepy: *For now they aren't* Arsé-kun: *.. except for a scrawny blond guy that's barely in grunt uniform. Rupel isn't worried about them at all* Sheepy: ???: Are you a hostage? If you go that way, you can help the other ones. Your cheeks will drop when you see the state they're in! ..However, I'm stuck walking in the same pattern over and over again. Sheepy: ???: By walking in this pattern, no one can enter nor leave, but if I simply stop moving, you can go in. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Have they gotten worse in my absence..? Here, hold this. *he hands this npc-sounding guard Usalock and strolls right on past them.* Arsé-kun: Rupel: I'm sure you will! Sheepy: *The guard looks over it* Arsé-kun: *it's a bunny. it is blue.* Sheepy: ???: I wonder what it's for... Sheepy: ???: Ah! I know. We must be playing hot potato. Arsé-kun: *it is not. you are not.* Sheepy: ???: A hot potato held for too long has negative consequences. ...But it is oddly rabbit shaped, like the rabbit that fell asleep before finishing the race. However, that's a metaphor for human behavior. Therefore, a "hare potato" has the ability to make people sleep. Sheepy: ???: So if I use it on the other guards, they will sleep. Sheepy: *The guard leaves his post to go see the other grunts* Arsé-kun: *Arséne spots him holding it, and quickly goes to group with Sherlock and Harley* Sheepy: Harley: What is it? Sheepy: Sherlock: ? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Usalock's probably going to get set off. We've gotta move. Sheepy: Harley:....! Sheepy: ???: *He approaches a grunt* Hello. I have something for hot potato. Hare potato. Sheepy: ???: I've heard it's a wonderful game. Let's play it! *He's absolutely beaming!* Arsé-kun: *Arséne ushers Harley and Sherlock out, while the other grunt gladly accepts the hare potato. that is what it is called now.* Sheepy: Harley: How did he get a hold of that...? Sheepy: Sherlock: We need to check on Rupel. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Absolutely. Sheepy: *Harley and Sherlock hurry to see Rupel* Arsé-kun: *Rupel is further ahead, making his way back to the other hostages. He's helpfully leaving every door open for them.* Sheepy: *good job, Rupel!* Arsé-kun: Rupel: *he stops to see who is following him. It's a group of three, so it's probably the others.* Sheepy: Harley: We'll need to double back and tie them up after we get the hostages out. There's some boss above them. Arsé-kun: Rupel: No clue who it is, though... Did the twink set it off? Sheepy: Harley: The "hare potato"? Most likely. Sheepy: Sherlock: Hare potato... Arsé-kun: Rupel: What a weird kid. Helpful, but weird. Sheepy: Harley: He might know something, so we should ask him later. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Oui. Sheepy: Sherlock: Hmmm... Sheepy: Sherlock: ...I want a baked potato. Sheepy: Harley: How close are we? Arsé-kun: Rupel: Very close. *he points to a door just ahead, before hurrying over to it and in* Arsé-kun: *When the others catch up and look in, they see a lot of people. A lot. Most of them are sitting on the ground, close to each other. Power in numbers. No one is happy about this situation, but Rupel's return has made at least a few individuals brighten up. Then they notice the "guards" and everyone scoots back a bit.* Sheepy: Harley: We're here to get you out of here. Sheepy: Harley: We aren't real guards. Arsé-kun: Rupel: They're honest. Gentleman's promise. Sheepy: Diego: *He looks over to the group, visibly exhausted, before dropping his head again* .......G...good to see y-you... Sheepy: Harley: Ah, you're the one who wrote that letter to me. Thank you. Sheepy: *Harley begins helping the hostages!* Arsé-kun: *Arséne kneels down next to Diego with a Lot of concern* Sheepy: *Diego appears to be struggling to sit up. he doesn't meet Arsene's eye* Sheepy: Sherlock: Should I call the ambulance? Medical attention is probably necessary for most of them. Sheepy: Sherlock: Maybe I should call Watson, too.. Arsé-kun: Arséne: You definitely should. Sheepy: *Sherlock steps out of the room and calls the emergency line.* Sheepy: Harley: Do any of you feel incapable of walking? Please take it easy. Arsé-kun: Arséne: ... If it makes you feel any better, your horses are doing well. Sheepy: Diego: ...Good. Sheepy: Sherlock: They're on their way. I call Watson too, right? Arsé-kun: Arséne: If you want to. Sheepy: *Sherlock calls up Watson* Sheepy: Sherlock: Hullo! Watson? How do we help dehydrated, starving hostages? I called the ambulance but some are worse off than others... Arsé-kun: Watson: Get food, get water! No salt, that'll make it worse. Sheepy: Sherlock: Oh, I don't have any, do I go run to get some? Sheepy: Sherlock: I think all of the guards are passed out, but one has Usalock and I need to get it back. Arsé-kun: Watson: Yes, absolutely. Casinos have places to get food, I believe? But not alcohol. Don't get that- It'll also make it worse. Sheepy: Sherlock: Alright, I'll go look around. Sheepy: *Sherlock goes hunting for food!* Sheepy: ???: Ah! Mr. Hostage, I've come to return your hare potato! *He holds it out to Rupel* You see, just as I predicted, if put the guards to sleep. I tied them up because that's what the people in Minako's movies do to the villain. Arsé-kun: Rupel: You've made it so much easier for us. Thank you, but I don't actually own this. Sheepy: ???: Who does? Arsé-kun: Rupel: Well, not I. One of the detectives, I'd wager. At least, I hope it's one of them. Sheepy: *the butler-like guard approaches Arsene* Sheepy: ???: Is this yours? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Personally no, but I do know who it belongs to. Sheepy: ???: *He gives it to Lupin* They're all tied up. But... Do I need to tie myself up, too? Sheepy: Harley: You can't tie yourself up. We'll need your assistance anyway. Sheepy: ???: Nornally, a butler would not be capable of such things. However, I, the capable Theodore, can do anything requested of me, so long as it is within the capabilities of reality! Simply, I was made the perfect butler, and therefore I must be able to execute even the most outlandish requests. Sheepy: Harley: Stop tying yourself up and help the hostages! Sheepy: Theo: Is there a place to cook here? I can make food for everyone. Sheepy: Harley: Lupin, Rupel? Do you know? Arsé-kun: Arséne: Probably..? Sheepy: Theo: Ah, then I’ll be back. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Have fun.. *he plops down and goes to make some phone calls. He, too, has shit to do* Sheepy: *Theo leaves* Arsé-kun: Arséne: We're going to have to partially rely on police. I'm ready for being disappointed. Sheepy: Harley: Mm, don't worry, I'm here. Arsé-kun: Arséne: I sure hope you are. Arsé-kun: *and then everybody of importance shows up! Adam shows up with the police! Watson shows up with the ambulances! So does Okita and Alex, for some reason! You two, get the fuck off the ambulance sides! These ain't dump trucks!* Sheepy: Okita: Wow, I nearly fell off. Sheepy: Theo: Oh! You must be the people Holmes called. My name is Theodore. *he bows* I believe I am an "accomplice" as Tatsuya's television show said. Do you want to see the hostages? They are in need of medical care. Arsé-kun: Watson: *he shoots Okita a quick glare. you idiot* That would be appreciated, yes Sheepy: *Theo leads them there* Arsé-kun: Alex: *he gets off the ambulance. He looks unfazed. He white boy power walks to catch up.* Did you need to be tied on, little boy? Sheepy: Okita: Oi oi, I don't want that! Arsé-kun: Alex: Then maybe stay inside the vehicle. Sheepy: Theo: I tied up the other guards. I began tying myself up, but the purple haired man told me to stop. Arsé-kun: Watson: You were of great assistance to us, thank you. So no need to restrain yourself. Sheepy: Theo: I see. Arsé-kun: Alex: I am inclined to say the word for tying yourself up is either "Bondage" or "Kinky". One of the two. Sheepy: Theo: Ah...! Sheepy: Theo: I tried to "kinky". Arsé-kun: *Arséne has to bail in order to laugh for a solid ten minutes. Adult.* Arsé-kun: Alex: ... I no longer think that is correct, but close enough. Sheepy: Theo: I see. Arsé-kun: *One of the police stops to look at Theo. Oh! It's Katsuya! Here he comes to kick ur butt* Sheepy: Theo:...Hmm? You're Tatsuya's older brother. Sheepy: Theo: Katsuya? Arsé-kun: Katsuya: Hello, Theodore. Does your father or Minako know you're here? Sheepy: Theo: My father sent me here. Sheepy: Theo:...Technically. Arsé-kun: Katsuya: Well, it doesn't seem like he's going to come get you. Would you rather I bring you to him? Sheepy: Theo: I will follow you wherever you go, if that's what you so please. Arsé-kun: Katsuya: You don't need to be that formal, you know. Sheepy: Theo:....? But I was made for this role, so to abandon it for informalities... Sheepy: Theo: While my uncle would be pleased by this, I doubt my father would be. Sheepy: Theo: We would be leaving later, not now, correct? Arsé-kun: Alex: *he raises his eyebrows slightly in the bg* Arsé-kun: Katsuya: That'd be correct. Cleaning this up comes first. Sheepy: Theo: I see. I'm an expert at cleaning. Arsé-kun: Katsuya: Not literally, Theo. Sheepy: Theo: Hm? Arsé-kun: Katsuya: We aren't literally cleaning this building. *he seems used to Theo's misunderstandings* If I see a feather duster, I am confiscating it. Arsé-kun: *meanwhile, a background event includes Adam picking up grunts like footballs, two at a time. This is at least amusing to watch* Sheepy: Okita: Wow, carry three. Arsé-kun: Adam: I would rather not. I may injure someone that way. Sheepy: Okita: You care about that? Arsé-kun: Adam: I certainly prefer it. Sheepy: Okita: Wow, you're boring. Sheepy: Nyar: -Heeey! Have you seen my dad? Arsé-kun: Watson: No, now fuck off, you insufferable fuck puddle. Sheepy: Nyar: He isn't here...? Arsé-kun: Alex: I'd like to report that you're going blind, doc. Sheepy: Nyar: Then where is he? Arsé-kun: *alex points. Aza's just standing against a wall, watching the clean-up. How long was he there for??* Arsé-kun: Alex: You deal with him. If he realizes I'm here, I'll call dibs on his skull. *and he bails from this conversation, going to help Okita and Alex.* Arsé-kun: *meanwhile, both Katsuya and Rupel are both staring at Nyar* Sheepy: Theo: Why is Uncle here? Sheepy: Nyar: *he rushes over to Aza* What are you doing here...?! Arsé-kun: Aza: Why not..? Sheepy: Nyar: Why not?? You might get blamed. Arsé-kun: Aza: I can be blamed when I was with the victims..? How absurd. Sheepy: Nyar: Victim!? Arsé-kun: Aza: I just... Wanted to know why these people had... Er, mobilized. .. Never got that answer. Sheepy: Nyar: Mobilized? Arsé-kun: *Aza just vaguely gestures to the room. Real helpful you putz* Sheepy: Nyar: ...? Sheepy: Nyar: Who locked you here, do you know? Did they represent an organisation? Arsé-kun: Aza: No. ... Maybe I should have left when I had the chance. Sheepy: Nyar: How frustrating... Arsé-kun: Rupel: ... *he's still staring. two for two that he's recognized. fear?* Sheepy: Theo: Do you know them, Mr. Hostage? Arsé-kun: Rupel: I'd prefer I didn't, but I did see them.. Once. Sheepy: Theo: They're my family. Arsé-kun: Rupel: ... Please tell me they don't have a relative under a lake. Sheepy: Theo:...Mm? Sheepy: Theo: Oh, yes. Arsé-kun: Alex: That's what's down there? It's just Squid's stupid brother? Sheepy: Theo: His name is Glaaki. Arsé-kun: *Katsuya swings around to stare. Other people just KNOW about this??* Sheepy: Theo: Do you know him, Katsuya? Arsé-kun: Katsuya: That... Thing.. Is why I was absent for a straight week... *he shudders* Sheepy: Theo: Let me apologize on his behalf. Arsé-kun: Alex: Don't. Prick steals and kills constantly. Sheepy: Theo: He should not be directly interacting with live humans. Arsé-kun: Alex: He is. Live and dead. This isn't a new thing. Sheepy: Theo: I'm aware. They have been trying to address it for some time now. Arsé-kun: Rupel: So it trying to grab me and my cohort was a normal occurrence?! I've got more questions now! Sheepy: Theo: Yes. Sheepy: Theo: Again, I apologize for his actions. Arsé-kun: *Arséne has noticed this discussion and has pulled out the notepad to keep track. He's not happy about it, though* Arsé-kun: Katsuya: I only got out because of this guy *he gestures back to Nyar* and some white-haired kid. Jack, I think-? Arsé-kun: Rupel: Hol' on, hold on, what? My cohort's the same.. Sheepy: Theo: Have you not seen him recently? Arsé-kun: Rupel: Not for a few days, but only because I was here. He picked up jus' fine earlier, though. Sheepy: Theo: I was not aware that Jack spent much time with anyone but criminals and Glaaki. Sheepy: Theo: Hmm. Arsé-kun: Rupel: But mine never spent any time with it beyond the day he was there..? Sheepy: Theo: I was not aware that he had a phone, either. Sheepy: Theo: Perhaps we are thinking of two different Jacks. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Sheesh, I hope so. Sheepy: Theo: The one I know was made by Azathoth through the combination of two people's DNA, one of which he was named for. ... Or so my father says. Arsé-kun: Aza: ...? Sheepy: Theo: Is that wrong? Arsé-kun: Aza: That... Sounds correct. Sheepy: Theo: Whose DNA did you use? Arsé-kun: Aza: I thought that was known already... Sheepy: Theo: Hmm. Arsé-kun: Arséne: *he FINALLY pipes up from over there* This other Jack and Moriarty, I believe. Sheepy: Theo: Thank you. My father didn't tell me this. Arsé-kun: Alex: Tell him to give you more useful information, so I don't have to commit homicide. Sheepy: Theo: Why would you kill someone? Arsé-kun: Alex: I just told you that. Sheepy: Theo: I would not recommend trying to fight him. Arsé-kun: Alex: If I can nearly eliminate Squid, I can eliminate some masked insect. Arsé-kun: *this is not an accurate statement.* Sheepy: Theo:...In...sect...? Sheepy: Theo: Ah, like butterflies. Arsé-kun: *meanwhile in the bg, Adam has finished his job and is just kinda hanging around. irrelevant but good to know* Arsé-kun: Alex: Is he not? Sheepy: Theo: *he tilts his head* I guess so. Arsé-kun: Rupel: I still have questions! Sheepy: Theo: Like what? I will try to answer you. Arsé-kun: Rupel: How do I ask this? Does it... Uh.. *he mimes throwing a lasso, then tugging on it* Pull, that's the word. Sheepy: Theo: Pull? Sheepy: Theo: Does Glaaki pull? Sheepy: Theo:...... Sheepy: Nyar: If you mean, can it drag targets to itself if it so pleases, yes. Through mental connections, I guess. Arsé-kun: Rupel: *he frowns* Then how do you break it? Sheepy: Nyar: Ah... Sheepy: Nyar: ... Sheepy: Nyar: Eeehhh...good luck with that, buddy. Arsé-kun: Aza: .... Good luck and their immediate attention. Arsé-kun: Alex: You don't know, Squid? That's disappointing. Sheepy: Nyar: I don't have to deal with the fear of being mind controlled. Arsé-kun: Aza: ... As often. Arsé-kun: *Rupel backs out of this conversation circle to make a few more phone calls. Katsuya, who has been doing his job and seeing off other police, steps back in.* Sheepy: Nyar: Heyhey, what does that mean?! Arsé-kun: Aza: It means... What I already said..? Arsé-kun: Aza: .... Oh, I've meant to ask something. .. If you get stabbed, do you get to keep the knife? Arsé-kun: Katsuya: As a general rule, no. Arsé-kun: Aza: Ah... Son, *he slightly turns his head towards Nyar* would you like a knife? Sheepy: Nyar: Wh... Sheepy: Nyar: Sure? Arsé-kun: *Aza hands Nyar a knife. It has absolutely been used. The most recent filth layer isn't even blood. oh god what is that.* Arsé-kun: *and he handed it over blade first. azathoth you stupid fuck* Sheepy: Nyar: *He hesitantly takes it before pocketing it* Arsé-kun: Aza: It hasn't stabbed you. So you can keep it. That is how it works. Sheepy: Nyar: It's a secret tool I'll use later. Sheepy: Nyar: Like Chekhov's gun. Sheepy: Nyar: Everyone will forget about it and then I'll make use of it, surprising everyone as the live audience cheers. Arsé-kun: *Aza glances towards the screen. Katsuya tries to follow his line of sight and only sees the wall* Sheepy: Harley: Once we're done here, we should head home. Arsé-kun: Arséne: I'm inclined to agree. We've done what we needed to do. Sheepy: Sherlock: Oh! Let's go back together! Arsé-kun: Arséne: That's a good idea. Sheepy: *Harley heads out, followed by Sherlock* Arsé-kun: Katsuya: Theo, are you ready to leave? Sheepy: Theo: Oh, I'm fine with leaving. Sheepy: Theo: I can make something for you when we get there. Arsé-kun: Katsuya: I can't complain about that. Sheepy: Theo: Good. Then, on the way back, you can tell me what you want. Arsé-kun: *bg event includes Adam patting Sherlock's head for a Job Well Done. He attempts to do this for Harley, too* Sheepy: Sherlock:...!! *He's absolutely beaming!* Sheepy: *Meanwhile, Harley looks up at Adam, extremely confused* Sheepy: Harley: Was there a bug? Arsé-kun: Adam: ... No? Sheepy: Harley: Then, why...? Arsé-kun: Adam: Because you did a good job? Sheepy: Harley: *He still looks puzzled* Sheepy: Sherlock: Arsene, I did a goob job! Arsé-kun: Arséne: Yes, you did! We did it without casualties. Arsé-kun: *Alex slowly follows Theo. He seems curious.* Sheepy: Sherlock: Let's work hard to do even better next time! Sheepy: Theo: *He doesn't appear to notice Alex* Sheepy: Theo: Will I need to be questioned? Arsé-kun: Katsuya: Maybe a little, about what was happening inside. Sheepy: Theo: That's fine. Sheepy: Theo: I will answer as well as I can. Arsé-kun: *Alex is so focused on watching Theo that he doesn't see- and consequently slams into- a lamp post. It bends a little on impact. He looks slightly insulted.* Sheepy: Theo:...! *He whirls around to face Alex* Sheepy: Theo: Are you alright? Arsé-kun: Alex: Yeah, it's fine, Cuz. *he's playing it off as cool and fine. He is not cool and fine.* Sheepy: Theo:...Cuz? Arsé-kun: Alex: ... ... I couldn't find a better way to say it. If you were made by Nodens, and I Azathoth, does that not make us related in some way..? Sheepy: Theo: I suppose so. Sheepy: Theo: Ah...! *his face brightens up* I always wanted a cousin! Sheepy: Theo: All I have are two older sisters who beat up on me... Arsé-kun: Alex: Beat them. Sheepy: Theo: Oh, I couldn't do such a thing. Sheepy: Theo: It's not fitting of my image I'm meant to portray. Arsé-kun: Alex: Butlers can't fight? Sheepy: Theo: I can fight, but it's wrong for me to hit my sisters. Arsé-kun: Alex: I'll do it for free. Sheepy: Theo:....! Sheepy: Theo: They're incredibly powerful, you see. Sheepy: Theo: However... Sheepy: Theo: We have been ordered not to combat others to our fullest potential. Arsé-kun: Alex: Where's the fun in that? If shit happens, shit back. Sheepy: Theo:...Hmm. Sheepy: Theo: You could talk it over with my father if you so please, but... Arsé-kun: *meanwhile is Rupel, looking a bit worried. also a little lost* Sheepy: Harley: What is it? Arsé-kun: Rupel: Cohort stopped answering texts.. I really hope he's not doing anything too dumb. Sheepy: Harley: I'm sure he's fine. Sheepy: Harley: You can check on him at his home. Sheepy: Harley: If you feel that he may be in some danger, I can look into it. Sheepy: Harley: However, I'd need to know the details Arsé-kun: Rupel: That's what I intended to do, and I do appreciate the offer. Arsé-kun: Rupel: If anything happens, you'll be the first person I call. Sheepy: Harley: Alright. Sheepy: Harley: I hope everything turns out well for you and your friend. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Thank you. *he goes to tip his hat, but his hat is absent. He finishes the gesture anyway* Sheepy: Harley: You're welcome. Sheepy: *Harley shifts his focus to walking home* Arsé-kun: Aza: .... So why is it, exactly, that there are slabs pertaining to not feeding the winged water beasts? Sheepy: Nyar: The - the what? Arsé-kun: Aza: ..... I forgot the word for them. The avians that live in water? The, uh... ... Yes. Sheepy: Nyar: Ducks? Sheepy: Nyar: Their intestines are sensitive and can't handle bread, and yet they want it anyway. Sheepy: Nyar: Simply, they live life on the edge. Arsé-kun: Aza: This creature is lawless. Sheepy: Nyar: They don't care about human laws. Sheepy: Nyar: They can't read. Arsé-kun: Aza: Why not? Sheepy: Nyar: Nobody has figured out how to teach them the ability to read. Arsé-kun: Aza: Interesting. Sheepy: Nyar: They probably don't understand speech either. Arsé-kun: Aza: How sad. Sheepy: Nyar: Well, nobody has taught them speech. Arsé-kun: Aza: But other avians are able? Sheepy: Nyar: Some can mimic it, but understand it? Debatable. Arsé-kun: Aza: I wonder why... Sheepy: Nyar: Eh, it's just how it is. Arsé-kun: Aza: ... And felines? Sheepy: Nyar: Uhh... Sheepy: Nyar: Maybe they understand a bit? Arsé-kun: Aza: But felines in... Your realm could, yes? Why not these as well..? Sheepy: Nyar: Different species. Arsé-kun: Aza: Hm. Sheepy: Nyar: You think we'll have to worry about Glaaki? Arsé-kun: Aza: You may. I do not. Sheepy: Nyar: Yeah, I guess he's probably done. Arsé-kun: Aza: You hope. Sheepy: Nyar: Yeah. Sheepy: Nyar: I hope, but... Sheepy: Nyar: I've got a bad feeling. Arsé-kun: Aza: Then he's not done. Sheepy: Nyar: Right. We should keep an eye on him. Arsé-kun: Aza: At least three eyes. One is not enough. Sheepy: Nyar: Eh...it's a figure of speech. Anyway, I don't have that many on me right now!! Arsé-kun: Aza: Two is close enough.. Sheepy: Nyar: Wh- fine, fine, I'll go watch him. Arsé-kun: *at some point, Rupel slips around a corner and starts heading a different direction. Oh. Bye!* Sheepy: *where are you going, rupel?* Arsé-kun: *in a different direction! He'd been staying in a different part of town.* Sheepy: *Oh! That makes sense* Arsé-kun: *He eventually reaches his destination, and lifts up a bit of fence to let himself in. From the outside, it's just some wood fence and a dumpster. It is not. The dumpster leads to inside the building. It's probably also used by crackheads and shit, but that's not important* Sheepy: Jack: ....! Oh, Rupel! You're back from infiltrating the casino. Sheepy: Jack: I wanted to go... Sheepy: Fox: There would've been no need for two, clearly, so you were right not to go. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Be glad you didn't. It was a hellzone. Mon dieu. Sheepy: Jack: But you seem fine. Sheepy: Fox: Good work on dealing with the situation. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Uh, wasn't me, but thanks. And to you, Joker- Arsé-kun: *Rupel stares at him before lifting up his shirt. Baaaandages. From jumping out a window. No one needs to know that.* Sheepy: Jack:...Oohh, I thought the bandages were fake... Sheepy: Fox: I won't pry, but if they're bad, go to a doctor. Arsé-kun: Rupel: I wish they were. *he pulls his shirt back down* And that's where they came from. Sheepy: Fox: We can't have you dying on us just because you want to look tough. Arsé-kun: Rupel: *he turns his stare to Fox* If I'm going to die, I'm going to do it in the most dramatic way possible. Sheepy: Fox: Like how? Sheepy: Fox: In my arms with a dramatic speech, revealing your love for someone before passing away? Arsé-kun: Rupel: Not dramatic enough! It needs to be in the rain. Sheepy: Fox: I'm not very good at crying so rain would help. Sheepy: *Jack has stopped listening, meanwhile. he's zoning out instead.* Arsé-kun: *Rupel lightly kicks Joker's ankle. Hey, pay attention* Sheepy: Jack:! *he snaps his attention to Rupel* What is it? Arsé-kun: Rupel: You're not giving me attention. I'm dying. Sheepy: Jack: Was I supposed to? Arsé-kun: Rupel: Where's the gung-ho? Where's all the "Oh boy, what'd you get?!?"? Get your mind out of the slug. Sheepy: Jack: Eh...I've just been headachy today. Sheepy: Jack: What did you get? Arsé-kun: Rupel: *he pulls out a bunch of casino tokens and also cash. Where were you hiding that. Where?* Also, a black eye. So that was fun. Sheepy: Jack: But what about your hat? Arsé-kun: Rupel: Not even going to risk it. I'll just need to make a new one. Sheepy: Fox: I can try to help. Arsé-kun: Rupel: That'd be neat. Sheepy: Fox: Something like that. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Don't tease me like this! I've already proven I need it to do well! Sheepy: Fox: I can't guarantee anything. Joker might be better suited at the job. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Maybe, maybe not! Sheepy: Fox: You'll help him, right, Joker? ... ... *he looks over. joker is gone. oh.* Arsé-kun: Rupel: Joker? Please tell me you've only gone around the corner.. Sheepy: *no response.* Arsé-kun: Rupel: ... Son of a bitch! Sheepy: Fox: I look away for but a few moments, and...! Arsé-kun: Rupel: Just get that damn phone book! I found out what's going on, and boy oh boy is it a load of shit! Sheepy: Fox: *he rushes and digs out the phone book before giving it to Rupel* Arsé-kun: *Rupel takes it, and info-dumps on Fox while flipping through it frantically. Pages are going everywhere. It's a shit older phone book* Sheepy: Fox: ...! I'll try to look online for his number! If all else fails, we head over there! Arsé-kun: Rupel: If all else fails, we're screwed! *he upends the book and starts grabbing loose pages from the air* Sheepy: Fox: We will fix this. There's no room for doubt, so stay calm. ... The number, the number- why does a detective agency have no number...!? Arsé-kun: Rupel: What do you mean no number?! Sheepy: Fox: I don't see one online! The last one they had online is apparently not a working number!? Arsé-kun: Rupel: Look for anything connected, anything at all! Sheepy: Fox: Apparently that old place burnt down within the last year...! Wait, wait- here's one...I think it's for the new office... Sheepy: Fox: Try calling it. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Gimme, gimme! *he throws all the papers and hurries over to put in the number* Sheepy: *Fox gives him the number.* Arsé-kun: *Rupel calls it immediately, putting it on speaker for ease* Sheepy: *The one who picks up is not Harley, but Sheepy. Phil is audible in the background, panicking about Naoya and Glaaki* Arsé-kun: *Arséne is also audible, telling Sheepy to please for the love of god not say anything too stupid* Sheepy: Sheepy: Who's your target? Arsé-kun: Watson: oh my god Sheepy: Harley: Give me the phone! Arsé-kun: Arséne: why are the phones always a disaster. Sheepy: Sheepy: The operator is a right that you need to earn. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Uh, listen, I get you're having fun and all, but I've really got to talk to Sholmes. Like, immediately. Sheepy: Sheepy: Sholmes- oh, Harley. He's here. One moment. *he passes the phone to Harley* Sheepy: Harley: Did he disappear? Arsé-kun: Rupel: I didn't think I'd have to call this soon, but yes! Sheepy: Harley: So did an acquaintance's son, it seems. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Is something big happening?? Sheepy: Harley: I don't know. Nyarlathotep would probably know better, but- Sheepy: Nyar: Phil, stop clinging to me! How can I deal with your problems if you won't let go!? Sheepy: Harley: He's...preoccupied. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Uh, uhm, would, would this be better in person?? Sheepy: Harley: I suppose. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Then I'll head to, um, *he looks at the webpage again* New office? Sheepy: Harley: Yes, please do. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Then I'll be right over..! Sheepy: Harley: Thank you. Arsé-kun: Rupel: Fox, we're going! Pack it up! Sheepy: Fox:...! Right. Arsé-kun: Rupel: *he takes the phone off speaker but keeps on the call. Just in case* Sheepy: *Fox doesn't comment on this. It doesn't take him much time to get ready.* Sheepy: Fox: What can a human do about this sort of situation, anyway? Arsé-kun: Rupel: Hell if I know! Sheepy: Fox: If Silverheart were here, well...I doubt he'd contribute, but he's out goofing off at some museum I'm sure. Sheepy: Fox: Or an amusement park. ...Or, really, anywhere but where he might be able to help... Arsé-kun: Rupel: The more, the more helpful! *he grabs Fox's wrist and hurries out. Time is the essence or whatever!* Sheepy: Fox: Do you even know the directions to where we're going...? Arsé-kun: Rupel: I've got a pretty good idea! Sheepy: Fox: I hope that's enough. Arsé-kun: Rupel: I mean, shit, I hope so too! Sheepy: Fox: Are we close? Sheepy: Fox: If walking while phoning wasn't dangerous, I'd try phoning Joker. Sheepy: Fox: "It's all fun and games until you lose an eye!" Arsé-kun: Rupel: Did you just use phone as a verb?? Sheepy: Fox: ...It gets the point across! Sheepy: Fox: Much like Silverheart removing his monocle when he quotes that phrase. Sheepy: Fox: Which is actually an odd phrase, considering that it implies that doing stupid things will inevitably lead to losing an eye... Even though it's more likely to lead to any other injury considering how the eye is but one part of the body, and a small one at that. Sheepy: Fox: You're more likely to fall and scrape your knee, which children already treat like it's a big deal, so it'd be more accurate if it were "it's all fun and games until someone scrapes their knee". Arsé-kun: *Rupel spent too long looking back at Fox and promptly tripped on something. Great thief.* Sheepy: Fox:...! *he helps Rupel up* You're still hurt! Be careful. Arsé-kun: Rupel: I'll think about it. Sheepy: Fox: You better do more than that or I'll carry you. Arsé-kun: Rupel: What? You'll carry me? *and he swings into Fox's arms. Rupel no* Sheepy: Fox: I will, but I don't know where we're going. Arsé-kun: Watson: Not much further, actually. *he's been standing out here for who knows how long, ok actually like ten minutes* Sheepy: Fox: Oh, thank you. You're Dr. Watson, aren't you? You'll be helping our friend? Arsé-kun: Watson: Yes on both accounts, or as much as I can for the second. Sheepy: Fox: Thank you. Please show me where your office is. Rupel will explain when we're inside. Arsé-kun: *Watson opens the door for them. It's empty in the Holmes' office, because everyone's crammed in Arséne's office, which is like five feet away.* Arsé-kun: Arséne: *he is, of course, at his desk* Look, I get this is important, but can we all settle down?! *he is completely ignored. He puts his head in his hands and stops trying.* Sheepy: Phil: If none of you will do anything to help him, I'll destroy the cavern myself! Sheepy: Nyar: That'd kill everyone in the cavern! Arsé-kun: *and then Van shoots the ceiling. everybody shut up!* Sheepy: Sheepy: *he jumps* Arsé-kun: Germain: Can we all settle down? We can't do anything like this. Sheepy: Phil: How do you expect me to stay calm!? Sheepy: Phil: Time is of the essence! Sheepy: Phil: If none of you will do anything, I will! Arsé-kun: Kazuya: At least take me with you! Sheepy: Phil: I can't put you in danger too. Sheepy: Phil: Here is the plan. Sheepy: Phil: I'm going to destroy that cavern. You get those who are in out before I do so. Arsé-kun: Germain: By himself? That's absurd, Nodens. Sheepy: Phil: *he huffs* Sheepy: Phil: What do you propose, then? Arsé-kun: Germain: I personally vote that not rushing is our best bet. Go in, get whoever we want, and then let you destroy it. Sheepy: Phil: I just can't comprehend how giving him a chance to basically kill them is the best choice! Arsé-kun: Van: It's not. Why don't you just go kill the snail? That'll fix it. Arsé-kun: Germain: That.. Won't fix anything. Arsé-kun: *meanwhile, Randy has hit 99% stress and has taken to sitting by a corner. Me too randy, I relate* Sheepy: Sheepy: *he's looking at Randy* Arsé-kun: Randy: *he notices Sheepy* Uh.. Yes? Sheepy: Sheepy: Are you okay? Arsé-kun: Randy: Yeah, yeah. I was just gonna consult A.. um.. My inner demons for legal advice. Obviously. Sheepy: Sheepy: Oh, have fun. Arsé-kun: Randy: I won't. Sheepy: Sheepy: I have inner demons too if you want to have a second opinion. Sheepy: Sheepy: Such as the inner demon that tells me to stay up late. Sheepy: Sheepy: That's the only one. Probably. Arsé-kun: Arséne: What are you saying over there? Please don't summon demons. Sheepy: Sheepy: Too late. Sheepy: Sheepy: That's how late I'm going to stay up, in fact. Sheepy: Iris: Can Nyar just force everyone to leave like how Glaaki is forcing them to show up? Arsé-kun: Germain: Unfortunately, no. Glaaki specializes in telepathy. Nyar's just a jack of most trades, master of not this. Sheepy: Iris: That's too bad. Sheepy: Nyar: I'm completely hopeless in this one topic. Sheepy: Nyar: However, I make up for it by being witty and incredibly attractive. Sheepy: Nyar:....Or something. Arsé-kun: Delly: So zero for two goals met? Sheepy: Nyar: Eh? Sheepy: Iris: Is there some way to stop Glaaki from using telepathy? Arsé-kun: Randy: *he leans in towards the corner and starts muttering r'hylean. He is up to questionable amounts of good.* ya'ai azathoth... *VERY QUESTIONABLE AMOUNTS OF GOOD* Arsé-kun: Germain: Not that I am aware of. Nyar? Philemon? Any you know of? Sheepy: Nyar: I'm not a scientist. Arsé-kun: Germain: Except when you are. Sheepy: Phil: I don't know. Arsé-kun: Van: I repeat my solution. Just kill the bastard. Sheepy: Nyar: Uhuh. Genius. Sheepy: Nyar: Killing potential tools is the stupidest idea. Sheepy: Nyar: Maybe I'll want to work with Glaaki in a hundred years, I don't know. Arsé-kun: Van: Okay, how about anyone but you? Sheepy: Phil: I'm capable of it. Arsé-kun: Randy: ya'uln azathoth... Arsé-kun: Delly: I'd pay to watch! Sheepy: Phil: Before joining Idea, my role was that of a hunter. Sheepy: Nyar: You hunted ME!! Sheepy: Phil: Yes. Arsé-kun: *Van is now a bit more interested* Sheepy: Phil: I'd enjoy hunting Glaaki. Arsé-kun: Arséne: But this doesn't settle the rescue portion. It's already been established he'll flood and collapse parts of the caverns. Arsé-kun: Randy: ya'stell'bsna uln... Sheepy: Nyar: What if we try to prevent that? Sheepy: Nyar: We're thinking about this one way and getting nowhere. Sheepy: Nyar: Let's look at it like this. Sheepy: Nyar: Our concern is it collapsing and flooding. Arsé-kun: Delly: But Sheepy's big book of ugly's says he has big spikes for murder! *he.. does have a book. he has learned to steal.* Sheepy: Nyar: So we just take Glaaki out of the cave. Sheepy: Nyar: We pick up the slug and move him. Sheepy: Nyar: And then he can't flood it nor collapse it. Arsé-kun: Germain: How? Sheepy: Nyar: Well. Sheepy: Nyar: We, uh... Sheepy: Nyar: Douse him in salt. Arsé-kun: Watson: If it was that simple, we'd be done by now. Arsé-kun: Randy: hai'ep ph'nog l'ooboshu... Sheepy: Nyar: I may be your ideas man but I'm not your actually possible ideas man. Arsé-kun: Impey: Here's a bad, why don't we just lure him to a different part of the cavern? Or something like that? Sheepy: Nyar: How? Sheepy: Phil: *he's mulling this over* Arsé-kun: Impey: I said it was bad, I dunno! Sheepy: Phil: We don't necessarily need him out in a physical sense. Sheepy: Phil: I don't want to dirty my home, however. Arsé-kun: Germain: We could always try to get a bigger monster in to chase him out.. But that creates far more problems.. Sheepy: Nyar: Where? Arsé-kun: Germain: Yes. Sheepy: Nyar: Me? Arsé-kun: Germain: No, you're tiny. Sheepy: Nyar: Hey! Sheepy: Nyar: I'm genius in a compact design! Like a smartphone! Arsé-kun: Watson: Like an iPhone after hitting concrete, sure. Sheepy: Nyar: What!? Arsé-kun: Watson: You keep saying you're not whole. Neither would that phone. Sheepy: Nyar: Eh...true... Sheepy: Nyar: I'm really limited by that. Sheepy: Nyar: If I were whole, I could probably deal with this. Sheepy: Nyar: However, in my current state? I'm basically just a shapeshifter with the ability to induce hallucinations. Nothing too exciting. Sheepy: Phil: We could just hijack his consciousness. Again, I don't want to dirty it like that, but... Sheepy: Phil:...That's a guess. I haven't tried. Arsé-kun: Randy: ya'ilyaa uln geb hai... Arsé-kun: Rupel: *he raises his hand* Ya'll lost me about one minute in! Sheepy: Phil: What are you confused about? Arsé-kun: Rupel: Hm... Most of it. Sheepy: Nyar: Hey, I'm Nyarlathotep, this is Nodens, and neither of us completely exist within the realm of consciousness. There's unconsciousness, too. Sheepy: Nyar: And, uh, does Glaaki dream? Couldn't we put him to sleep and force him to stay that way until everything is ready? Sheepy: Nyar: And then deal with him. Arsé-kun: Germain: Maybe? But, umm.. Sheepy: Nyar:...would that even work? Arsé-kun: Randy: uaaah, y'hah. Arsé-kun: Delly: Book says, uh, nothing of value! Sort of like you sometimes! Sheepy: Nyar: Great. Thanks. Sheepy: Nyar: I appreciate it. Arsé-kun: Arséne: ..... Am I... Actually, the only one who sees that? *he gestures to the corner of the room, and he looks to be trying very, very hard to keep his poker face intact.* Arsé-kun: *aforementioned corner is dark. unreasonably dark. Randy is still there, and still sitting there. Also, there might be a few tentacles? No word on if they are actually physical. But HOW LONG has this BEEN HERE* Sheepy: *Sheepy is poking at it with a yardstick* Sheepy: Sheepy: Aza, use the front door, it's against the law to break into a person's house with magic outside of the comprehension of humans. Arsé-kun: Aza: *he doesn't look like he's there, but his voice sure is* I was summoned.. Here... Thus I appear. Sheepy: Sheepy: Okay, well, that's fine then. You can stay anytime. Arsé-kun: Arséne: *he throws his hands up in a silent "what the FUCK"* Sheepy: Nyar: Oh, Dad is here. Arsé-kun: *Azathoth slowly drags himself out of the corner, pushing Randy out of his way. Randy is unfazed by this development* Sheepy: Sheepy: Can you feel the floor as you come out of it? Arsé-kun: Aza: I JUST. Just, removed. My human guise. Your timing is of the absolute worst, Carter-- What? *startled, he looks up at Sheepy. he.. didn't see him there. badum. tsh. two drums and a cymbal are thrown off a cliff* Sheepy: Sheepy: Does the floor envelop your body or can you not feel it? Or does it clip through your body? Sheepy: Nyar: That's not something I want to contemplate when I enter in that manner. Arsé-kun: Aza: ..... What... in the human Hell... kind of question is that..? Sheepy: Sheepy: Now that you're awake, can you help us deal with Glaaki? Sheepy: Nyar: Fluffy, if you ever greet me with existential crisis inducing questions when I come in, I'll just leave. Arsé-kun: Aza: *he sighs, taking the darkness and tentacles with him as he pulls himself up and out.* I don't seem to have much choice in the matter, now do I? Sheepy: Sheepy: He's grabbing people again. Arsé-kun: Aza: ... This is a new event? Sheepy: Sheepy: Including Naoya, so Phil wants to nuke him. Sheepy: Sheepy: Also, just today, yes. Arsé-kun: Aza: Why don't you... Just take this crowd... And split it? Give out roles, jobs to do. I may be the idiot, but I understand human hierarchy. Sheepy: Sheepy: What do you propose? Glaaki left me alone when I went in there tor some reason, despite seeing me. Sheepy: Sheepy: However, there's no guarantee he'd leave me alone again. Arsé-kun: *meanwhile, Randy- who hasn't bothered to get back up, is writing down the summon spell he used. Abridged, it was "i call aza... i summon aza... i pray for you... then come over to visit... I expect you here now... (spell end), amen". If Aza saw him recording it, he'd remove the wording from sight.* Arsé-kun: Aza: *he looks around the room* The... More regular humans.. Stay out, while the stronger go. .. Oh! *he looks towards the door* One of your number already has the correct idea Sheepy: Sheepy: I'm not strong but I can try talking to him. Arsé-kun: Aza: You have a death wish? Sheepy: Sheepy: Well, no, but... Sheepy: Sheepy: Do you have a better idea? Sheepy: Sheepy: And if he tries to kill me, Nyar can help! Sheepy: Nyar: *he was middrink when sheepy said this. he chokes* Sheepy: Nyar: I'm sorry, you TRUST me? What is wrong with you? Arsé-kun: Aza: .... .... I thought I was the idiot god. Sheepy: Sheepy: Nyar is a meatshield. Sheepy: Nyar: Fluffy, you're terrible! Sheepy: Sheepy: But anyway, we haven't tried talking to him. Sheepy: Sheepy: When we talked to you, you understood what you were doing was wrong. Arsé-kun: Aza: ... I was trying to study humanoid psychology. I have... A vague concept of the idea. Sheepy: Nyar: Meanwhile? Sheepy: Nyar: That guy's an attention hungry parasite. Arsé-kun: Aza: Give him attention. Give him a focus. Give him what he wants and in overdrive. *the wall tentacles have started coming back* He's not smart either. His focus is more single-minded than even mine. Arsé-kun: Aza: Those of you that are able to withstand Glaaki, go. Others, stay back. They don't need to be rescued if they aren't allowed to reach! Arsé-kun: Randy: You're really alert... Arsé-kun: Aza: In human terms, I may or may not have just disabled my musicians. *he grins. He's happy about this!* So for the following perceptible time, I am permitted to shed my Idiot God title. Sheepy: Sheepy: Ah...That won't cause problems. Will it? Sheepy: Nyar:!! Dad is fully back!! Arsé-kun: *Arséne has scooted back a bit. Understandable* Sheepy: *sheepy doesn't appear too bothered* Arsé-kun: *of course not. but is everyone just gonna let this punk tell em what to do?* Arsé-kun: *... apparently! Someone has to have a vague idea of what to do! And this guy does! So I guess it's an unspoken agreement to just let this happen* Sheepy: Nyar: That plan sounds great. Arsé-kun: Aza: Great, because as I have mentioned, one of your number has already started. I can have Twilight join in the efforts, but I'm not entirely sure of their actual value. Sheepy: Nyar: Twilight still exists? Arsé-kun: Aza: I've had no drive to do anything about it, admittedly. Arsé-kun: Aza: But an excuse to let them out is an excuse I'll take. Sheepy: Nyar: Good. Arsé-kun: Arséne: Ehh.. I suppose we'd best get started, yes? Sheepy: Sheepy: Yeah. Arsé-kun: *and so, everyone splits up! it's time for everyone to do the things!* Sheepy: *Sheepy beelines for Glaaki. hello friend!* Arsé-kun: *Randy quickly follows. What's better than one attention giver? Two!* Sheepy: Sheepy: Hello! Sheepy: Sheepy: I thought you must be bored down here so I came to talk to you Arsé-kun: Glaaki: ... *only one eye turns to look at Sheepy. doubt.exe is now running* Sheepy: Sheepy: But, uh, if you don't want to talk, that's fine too. Arsé-kun: *Glaaki slowly turns a second eye towards Sheepy, but doesn't do much else. The third looks at Randy to figure out what he's thinking, and then quickly decides to Not Do That. That is how you teach an eldritch what anxiety is.* Sheepy: Sheepy: Do you have any hobbies? Mine is watching movies. Arsé-kun: *Despite his face not being visible, it's obvious Glaaki has... No fucking idea what half those words meant. He is confusion.* Sheepy: Sheepy: A hobby is something you do for fun. You get enjoyment out of it. Sheepy: Sheepy: Sometimes it gives you mental stimulation, but other times it's mindless fun. Like, um... Sheepy: Sheepy: Movies are like books but people act them out. Sheepy: Sheepy: And I enjoy watching them act it out. Arsé-kun: Glaaki: ... Mgng ng h'ah nafl yog ya. Sheepy: Sheepy: Uhmm, well, it doesn't have to be not about you. Sheepy: Sheepy: You could make a movie about yourself. Arsé-kun: *Glaaki very slowly turns to look at Sheepy fully. You have his attention.* Sheepy: Sheepy: If you make a movie about yourself, people can watch it. There's places you can put the movie where millions can watch it, too. Sheepy: Sheepy: I can show you an example of a short movie. Arsé-kun: *Glaaki puts down the poor sod he was holding. Onto the ground. You may live for another several minutes.* Sheepy: *Sheepy takes out his phone and begins playing a movie trailer for Glaaki!* Arsé-kun: *With Glaaki's attention in one single place, some of our heroes are able to get through the corridor without being spotted. Randy takes the wrist of the kid that was just put down, and leads them out to the team* Arsé-kun: Randy: *he goes to pinch the kid's cheek. alertness test. is this one still with us, on this plane of reality?* Sheepy: Naoya: *he blinks, still somewhat dazed, and looks to Randy* ...? Arsé-kun: Randy: *softly* Come on, kid. Your father has been looking for you. Sheepy: Naoya: *he slowly nods* Sheepy: Naoya: *he still seems somewhat out of it.* Arsé-kun: *Randy gently leads him outside.* Sheepy: Phil:...! You got him out...! Arsé-kun: Randy: I did, but he's still affected. I'd say let him rest, but you'd know better.. Sheepy: Phil: Yes, let him rest. Sheepy: Phil:......... Sheepy: Phil: However...just thinking that he abducted Naoya... Yes, today is a good day for a hunt. Sheepy: Phil: The temperature is just right. Arsé-kun: Randy: Wait until my brother's out, and then I won't stop you. Sheepy: Phil: Fine. Arsé-kun: Randy: Thank you, Nodens. Sheepy: *Sheepy leaves soon afterwards!* Sheepy: Sheepy: Hey. Arsé-kun: *Rupel, who is sitting by the fire with some other people, keeps getting excited every time someone comes out, followed by disappointment. At least Randy is happy about this* Arsé-kun: Randy: Oh, you've made it out, good. Did Glaaki enjoy it? Sheepy: Sheepy: Yeah, he loved it. Arsé-kun: Randy: Isn't that something. Sheepy: Sheepy: Am I a bad influence? Arsé-kun: Randy: Not at all. I didn't think he'd care for it. Sheepy: Sheepy: It's Jurassic Park. Everyone loves Jurassic Park. Sheepy: Phil: ...Is everyone out yet? Sheepy: Sheepy: Oh, I forgot about that. Sheepy: Jack: Oi, if yer gunna be bloodthirsty, at least wait 'til ev'ryone's out. *he has the other Jack on his back. This will get complicated fast* Arsé-kun: Rupel: ?! *two! two jacks!?* Sheepy: Jack: 'Ere, del'vry fer you. *He strolls over to Rupel and dumps the other Jack next to him* 'Nd before yeh ask, yes I know I look like 'im, no I don't care. Sheepy: Jack: If yer lookin' for an explanation, we're related. Arsé-kun: Rupel: *he pulls his Jack close* That's all the explanation I need, but thank you. Sheepy: Jack: Yer welcome. Sheepy: Jack: I think that's ev'ryone. Arsé-kun: Randy: Nodens? Hunt's on. Sheepy: Phil: Good. Sheepy: Phil: I've been waiting for this. Arsé-kun: Randy: Have fun with it. Sheepy: *Phil calmly walks into the cavern* Sheepy: Phil: Glaaki. You targeted someone important to me. That's unforgivable. Arsé-kun: Glaaki: Mka naIIII. Arsé-kun: Glaaki: *he narrows his eyes, all of them, and lowers the outer two stalks* Shoo. Sheepy: *Phil launches Armageddon R at Glaaki!* Arsé-kun: *Everything explodes. Glaaki explodes, sorta. I'm not entirely sure if it's all on this plane. The cavern also implodes and starts collapsing.* Sheepy: Phil: You shoo. Arsé-kun: *cool* Sheepy: Phil: *with that! he leaves. with Moldy.* Sheepy: Sheepy: What was that...!? Arsé-kun: Randy: No chase? Just the kill? Sheepy: Sheepy:...Uh? Can you chase a slug? Arsé-kun: Randy: .... That's a good point. Sheepy: Phil: I've finished. Everything is fine now. Arsé-kun: Randy: I almost feel bad for him. Almost. Arsé-kun: Randy: But what is that you've got?? Sheepy: Phil: A trophy. Sheepy: Sheepy: That's a pillow.

#det. au #13

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