angelinteractivestories

[angelinteractivestories]

Harbinger of Rot - Part 2

You enter the village to find everyone essentially ignoring you. They are living their own lives, paying no mind to each other much less you. Many of them appear to be farmers or travelers who have just stopped here for the time being. The bazaar is bustling around quite a bit. You look down at yourself. You know you need a new outfit. But it strikes you that you have no money and no way to earn any.

Odd jobs Asking around for any odd jobs most people give you an odd look before hurrying off on their business. Weren't countryfolk supposed to be more hospitable? You have an odd itching that was supposed to be true. Eventually some people do respond. A young girl, a teenager, and an old woman. Old woman She brings you to her house and slowly leads you down into her basement. It's been hollowed out of the dirt and left there. Some stonework has been laid down here and there but it's all very shoddy. "There's a demon down here," she states very boldly.

"And I am supposed to..?"

"Get rid of it!" She slams the door behind her, returning to the fresh air above. Well you're down here with a supposed demon.. Examine the stonework. The stone work is all set into place. It appears to have been like this for quite some time now. The basement must be much older than it actually looks. On the farthest wall from the entrance you find a small section of stone that appears to have some chalk markings on it. Most of them have been worn away but you get a sense of foreboding from it. Nothing sinister, though. Just energy spilling forth. Very peculiar indeed.

Leave and lie You wait a few moments to increase the believeability of your story and exit. "There, done. It was just a lesser-demon. Even weaker than an imp." ...The words come out of your mouth before you can even think of what you're saying. Was that a factual statement, did your brain go faster than you could comprehend or.. Was it that voice controlling you again? The woman glances to the door and shoves a small leather purse into your hand. You can feel the warmth and hear the jingle of coins inside. "Thank you kindly." She shoos you away. Teen. You go to the teen. She's a young girl, can't be much older than seventeen. Her hair has been hacked at recently, leaving it an uneven mess just above her shoulders. You assumed she meant help on her family's farm but once you actually arrive you realize she did indeed mean Her farm. "I'm willing to pay you for the full day's work. I just need some help getting it going, this is my first season on my own."

Two open crates next to her house suggest she has already grown at least one healthy round. You could use the money, but perhaps its better for her to do it on her own. Sure. "Alright." The first task she sets you two is hoeing up half a new field. She gives you a pair of sturdy leather gloves so your hands don't blister you. It takes you the better part of three hours to finish up job with both of you meeting half way.

Afterward you're given seeds to help her plant. The seeds are thick and as wide as your palm but you have an easy time planting them. In your idle chitchat she mentions these are spice-umpkins. Currently, as you gathered from the little girl earlier, the only way to get them around here is in the wild. She's hoping if she can get some growing locally she can make a killing off of them. It isn't a bad plan, actually. Eventually you finish this as well.

"I can handle the rest myself if you want to go on. But I do appreciate any more help if you're willing to offer." Help more. "I'll help out. You said a full day's work, I won't feel right unless I put in what I get out." She smiles and allows you to help her. The sun is close to beginning its setting when you both finish. She brings you to her small hut of a home, offering you three fists of coins.

"Counted exactly to seventy-five. It's the most I can offer. I really appreciate this." She gives you a bright smile. You smile back which seems to make her slightly uneasy but nothing too noticeable.

The bazaar. You make a dash to the bazaar, hoping to catch at least someone selling clothes so you can find something more comfortable. Most of the travelling merchants have packed up and moved on it seems. A few of the townsfolk who have permanent stalls are still milling about. You do manage to find two merchants, side by side, selling clothes. One of them are clothes of the homier design. Loose fitting, easy to work in, but don't offer much protection. The other is a balding monk who greets you even with his eyes shut when you approach. On top of clothes and robes he does offer a few chainmail pieces.

Bare minimum, just work clothes. The man greets you with a sage nod. You pick out a simple cotton shirt, much like your current, with slightly longer sleeves. It's soft. The pants you choose are roughly made but you can't exactly identify the material it's made of. You take them nonetheless. "Thirty pieces." You open your purse to fish out thirty of the silver coins. Holding them in your hands you notice the warmth earlier awsn't just the purse but the coins actually do generate heat on their own. How odd..

The man graciously takes them, allowing you to move away with your new clothes. Could you wait to change, or is it an urgent matter?

Sneak. You go to the outskirts of town, just behind one of the newer buildings, throwing off your old clothes. Looking down at yourself you notice your knees first. They had been aching a lot and looking at them you notice they're extremely bruised. Your elbows appear to be the same. Everything else seems to be fine as far as you can tell... You throw on the clothes without a second thought, leaving behind the ruined ones as you make your way to the tavern.

Entering in you're welcomed by a cacophonous roaring that can only be attained by those not musically inclined and far too drunk to care. It appears a band of adventurers off in the corner are the ones making the noise. Everyone else seems to have varying degrees of murder contemplation or enjoyment about their faces. to the owner You go to the person at the would-be bar, leaning against it. She gives you an acknowledging nod. "Would you happen to be the owner," you inquire. Her dark eyes glance up to you before throwing another nod. Not very talkative. ...You pause when you realize you weren't sure what you wanted to do. You hadn't drunk or eat anything since you first awoke on the beach. Yet you still felt no need to. What was it you wanted? A meal. "What do you have as ways of food around here?" Her face moves to fully acknowledge you now. Her eyes are still dark now that you see them fully and not in a glance. Her light hair is beginning to grey but it's hard to notice unless you're actively looking for it.

"Depends. What are you looking for? I have something to fill you up, I have stuff to just keep you going. And I have stuff to give you a wild ride."

Let's go on a ride. "Let's go on a ride."

"Fifty pieces." You drag the money out for her. This leaves you with a small surplus of twenty for necessities. Should work out fine. She motions for you to take your seat at the bar as she disappears around the corner for a moment. Within seconds she's back assuring you your meal will be ready momentarily. What can I expect? "What can I expect from this?" She just grins and lays her hands on the surface in front of you.

"It's different for everyone. Some say they see the face of their God. Others have told me they had their ancestors tell them how to live the rest of their life. And Old Jim, bless him, believed it was spiked with a fire-skin potion and threw himself into the fireplace. Of course he may have had problems before he ate it but you get me." Grin You flash her a grin of your own before the food is laid down in front of you. It's a small slab of pork from what you can tell. A purple spice has been sprinkled over it and the green beans that surround it. "Eat up." A quick breath and you dig in. The taste starts off heavenly but the more you eat the more you notice the taste fading away into what can only be described as expiring produce. You manage to finish the entire thing before the taste entirely overwhelms you.

You're sat there as she watches you. Nothing appears to be happening. Nothing "Nothing." The moment you open your mouth a brick wall slams into your face. Literally. You're vision blacks out for a quick moment before a red grain over takes it. Only seconds later has it returned but the room around you is.. different. No one is laughing anymore. They're all silent. Staring at you with their cold, unmoving sockets. 'What have you done?' The scratchy voice from before is back in your head.

Your breathing is accelerating. Whispers are spreading around you. 'You fool!' You try to move your hand, noticing the skin feels rubbery around the bones. How do you feel your bones? Flashes of faces. Smiling, laughing, crying... They all look so familiar. Part of you wants to return to them. You're terrified. Or half you is. The other half is screaming to kill, to devour flesh. Your mind is split in two. Calm down You try to calm down, taking deep and slow breaths. Bubbles are now appearing from your breaths. Are you underwater? The tavern fades away and you find yourself surrounded by a green viscous liquid. 'Is this your attempt to get free?' You aren't sure how to respond so you don't. 'Or are you just that dumb?' The remark stings. More than it should you believe.

'Sleep.' You feel yourself hit a hard surface before you pass out. That night your dreams are filled with the faces from before. Why do they all look so familiar? Something wasn't right. About this dream, about you. Why were your knees and elbows so bruised? Even in the dream you could see them. Why did they always hurt when you stay still?

...You wake up in a warm bed. Sit With small effort you sit up in the bed. The room is tiny at worst, small at best. Your clothes are laid out in a small chair next to you. Why were you undressed? Trying to recall the night before you are only assailed with memories of the visions. Instead you try something more productive and stand up slowly. You seem steady enough to walk… Get dressed You dress yourself once again, still perplexed as to why anyone would undress you before putting you to bed. Surely that would be much more of a hassle than it was worth? Stepping out of the room you find Yourself entering a small hallway with the dining room at the nearest end. Stepping out the owner yells at you, waving you over. "I have to apologize about last night, I didn't realize you'd react like that. The room is free of charge." Thanks. What happened? You nod your thanks, rubbing your head. "What happened?"

"You started screaming 'get out of my head', and 'I want to go back'. All kinds of shit, then you fell over and hit your head on the bar and passed out." She pauses for a moment nodding to herself.

Thanks for the room.

"Thanks for the room." Without any further interaction you leave the room. What do you do now? You're in a small, homey village, no idea who you are. A voice in your head, insulting you and controlling you. Weird visions in your dreams… Stay here. Maybe the teen would like a farming partner. With no recollection of who you are and violent psychotic voices in your head you decide it's best to settle down and try to figure yourself out. You seek out the teen girl from before who welcomes you on her farm with a healthy bellow and a wave. At the time she was watering the crops you two had planted the day before. "What can I do you for?"

"I have no real place to go, and was wondering.." You sigh, motioning to the small area she called a farm. "I can help you out with the farm. Two of us can get exponentially more work done. Hell, I'll even build myself a house or a bigger one for us both if you want." The offer seems to tempt her but she is wary, looking you up and down.

"Expect to be paid?" You shake your head. "Against my better judgement, sure." She offers you her gloved hand which you take with a hearty shake. ask if she wants to stay separate You leave her to the crops and go off to start gathering materials, stopping in your tracks when you realize she never specified earlier. "Want me to build my own hut, or build a house for the both of us?" In speaking it hits you that it may be a good idea to just build a small hut for yourself and then start building some utilities like a well or a barn for the farm.

"I'll leave that up to you!" Hut.

You decide it would be better to just build a hut for now. Would cutting down trees at random be fine? Was there even laws to things like that out here? It would be better to check, you suppose. It takes you about an hour of asking around before you're directed to an old man who is supposed to be the mayor for him to just verify what you thought and you are allowed much wood you need as long as you gather yourself. But he did ask that you replant any seeds you come across so that the trees may repopulate themselves. Simple enough.

large n sturdy

About two hours searching along the edges of the woods finds you with a large, sturdy tree that towers above the rest. It's wood would most likely do for your hut and a good amount into that barn you wanted to make. With the axe the teen lent you you start to chop away. Thunk, thunk, thunk goes the wood.

Focus.

You focus on the chopping and cutting. Time is flowing by before your very eyes as you go. You start early morning and the sun is setting when the tree begins to lean and eventually comes down. You're tired to your bone. It was the best idea to leave the tree here and come back to continue tomorrow. But you could hack some branches away for a fire tonight. Doesn't hurt.

take some branches

You hack and tear away a good haul of branches to bring back with you. By the time you're there the moon is beginning to rise above the tree line. You see the girl sitting next to a small fire already, munching away at something she must have cooked. You throw down the branches in a small pile next to the hut and take your seat across the fire from her. "Got you a tree going?"

"Mhm."

What's your name? "If we're going to be living together, could I get your name?"

"Call me Ang*. What's your name, friend?" You couldn't remember, admittedly. But if you're making yourself a new life, may as well give yourself a new name.

Til.

"Til. The name is Til." She nods to you with a smile. You can't help but return the smile.

"I'm going to sleep." Ang enters her hut without even so much as a second glance to you. You stare into the fire and think to yourself. You were starting a new life and it was going well so far. But why were you so sorrowful? Being alone in silence the visions from the night before began to scratch at the back of your mind again. You fall asleep that night with thoughts of yourself. Who you were, who you are, and who you are going to be.

[angelinteractivestories]

Harbinger of Rot - Part 1

The sound of lapping waves brings your consciousness forth from the darkness. Golden sand is the only thing inhabiting your vision until you managed to force yourself into a kneeling position. In front of you are straggly brown trees whose better days are long gone. Just beyond them there are greener trees but they too appear to be struggling. You don't remember anything except for the notion of an oozing voice, and terror. So much terror...

Stand and looking forward to this story. With even greater effort than it took to kneel you come to a standing position. Your legs are barely working, much less listening to you. A wince of pain flashes through your mind but you can't find any visible wounds on your body. A loose white cotton shirt that was been stiffened by salt and sand clings to your torso, and leather trousers that are a size to small. Your head is pounding, your knees are throbbing.

Turn around. You force your legs to about face, bringing your eyes to a green sea as far as they can see. Waves sloshing against the beach spray water to your face with the scent of salt ever-invasive. It's an oddly oppressive place, this beach. In all respects it feels like any other beach, you imagine since you can't remember having been to one, but it's like it wants to force you to stay there. To never leave.

Rest. You fall back to your ass with an oomph. Sitting is infinitely easier than standing. Soon the waves begin to come closer and closer, forcing you further back until you are at the treeline. The waves seem to show no sign of receding, as well...

try to remember Curling your knees closer to your chest, you lean your head down and try to think. What had happened before? What was the line of events that led you to the place. The longer you thought the more you found your head hurting. The pounding was becoming unbearable. You quit solely because at its peak you fear your head may actually pop off of your shoulders. ...The waves are lapping at the toes of your boots again, rising further in-land.

Search for water.

Using the dead tree as a support you bring yourself to your feet once again. Moving forward is a task of monumental proportion. The first steps causes you to stumble and fall to the next tree. You catch yourself before you fully hit the ground but it doesn't help your situation much. Another step has you finding it easier to move forward by a small amount. Another and you don't stumble. A fourth and you feel as if you can start to lose the support...

You've gone roughly one-hundred paces with no sign of it except you are now in a greenly wooded area.

Keep walking. Forcing yourself to continue you forward. Your heart is slowing. Or is it quickening? The pounding in your head has dropped to a slow steady thump. Your lips are dry but your tongue is oddly moist. You're stomach growls but you feel fine in continuing on for quite some time.

You aren't sure how much time has passed but the trees are beginning to thin. Is it a clearing or the end?

Speed up. You force your feet to move faster. You come to the edge of the trees to find yourself in a small clearing. There's a pool in the middle surrounded by smooth stones that appear to have been placed in a deliberate pattern. Why was this here?

Rest You bring yourself down next to the pond. Silence all around you. For it to be such a healthy forest it has been oddly quiet. No chirping of birds, no chattering of squirrels. Not even the beat of a butterfly's wings have entered your hearing range. Only deafening silence. The water shimmers in the sunlight.

Listen. Your eyes come to a shut as you listen closely. Surely enough no sounds of animals are present. But there is one. Water. Moving. The pool was still when you sat down. The sound shows no sign of stopping as well. It's flowing continues on, and on. ...Getting louder.

stare at it

Your eyes snap open as you turn your head. You see a small drop of water rise out of the pool and plop back down as if it had been quickly disrupted. The pond is entirely still.

Talk to it. "I was not aware a still pond with no flow into it could move." The surface of the water shifts around. You feel as if you're being watched now.

"It can't." The voice is male and it originates from the pond. However you see no face. It was entirely possible this could be a cruel trick of a sorcerer.

Ask who it is. "Who are you?" The water shifts again, this time much less noticeably. A small bubble pops on the surface.

"I am who I am, Water through and through. Some call me Aqua, friends call me Jang." The tone was jovial, playful almost. "And who may you be?"

Don’t feel like telling.

"I don't feel like telling you." A few more bubbles arise to the surface.

"Well aren't you just a ray of friendly old sunshine." You sigh. It was a very patronizing pool of water, that was for sure.

Why are you here? "Why are you here?" The pool is silent for a moment. Perhaps it wasn't happy with you not giving your name as willingly as it had. Of course you were in no position to do so anyway. ...Your knees are beginning to ache once again.

"Curse. Imprisonment. Mean old sorcerer who told me if he couldn't have me no one could. If you ask me he was just angry he couldn't party as much as me!"

The stones are your prison? "The stones are your prison?" In answer a tendril of water rises from the pool and reaches toward you. The moment it crosses the threshold of the stones you hear a crack on sputtering purple flames erupt forth, completely evaporating the tendril that attempted to leave.

"Anything can enter, nothing can leave. That's my source of food. Anything stupid enough to stick itself in is my... You get the idea." It grows quiet, possibly regretting it told its next meal about its trap.

Did you deserve it. You ponder out loud, unsure even to yourself if this was your own choice: "Did you deserve this punishment?" The water has fallen entirely silent. "No longer talkative?" Once again no response. Perhaps you have bruised it's aquatic feelings.

Shift a stone. You carefully grab a stone and shift it to the side, allowing a small hole in their structure. You shift away from where the hole is to see what would happen. A long pause ensues. Minutes go by before a tendril slowly creeps it's way out. There is no adverse effects and slowly but surely he begins to ooze himself out. "What if I try to kill you? DId you ever think of that?"

You couldn't. "You couldn't." It begins to take form in front of you. The form it has chosen is best described as a fairy. About two feet tall, watery wing-like structures sprouting from its back. No face to be seen anywhere on its head.

"Well thanks for releasing me!" And with that it runs off into the forest. You are alone again. You notice the grass you are sitting on feels like it's been dried out but the rest of it feels fine.

Sleep.

You lay back into the grass and fall asleep. Your dream is nothing but blackness with a hacking cough coming into audible distance every so often. Their lungs sound as if they are filled with so much mucus you could hardly believe it.

...When you awake the moon is high in the sky, Crickets are chirping all around you. It is a much welcome change compared to the silence from before.

Look for food. You stand and set about looking for food. Before you even make it to the clearing you hear a voice in your head. It's distant, but it terrifies you nonetheless. 'Do not slack,' calls its slimy tone. 'Continue your journey.' Your legs turn and force you to go in the direction you had been heading in earlier. You desperately tried to gain back control and do manage to do so after a few agonizing moments of internal control. The voice is silent again.

Try to ask. 'What are you?' Silence is your only response. You continue forward after standing there for a few moments. You are considerably less hungry than you were when you had awoke. The forest looms above you as you walk The trees are pressing down. The crickets are chirping louder.

Walk faster You speed up your pace. You wonder if it's instinct from how the forest is appearing or if its out of fear of the voice in your head that has more control over your body than you do. The moon is setting and the sun is rising once you eventually find the end of the forest. It spits you out into hilly plains. You see a windmill far off into the distance.

To the windmill. You make your way to the Windmill. Hill over hill over hill. Eventually you come to it finding a small village at its base. The village appears to have grown outward from the windmill as if it had been there long before any of the civilization around it. People are milling around the town. You see a bazaar set up in an odd off-street, farmer working a few small fields, and a small section on the outskirts of town is housing large green, lizard-like creatures. Most of them have saddles that are strapped around their body. They must be the average form of transportation. Setting off down the hill you begin to approach the village, starting a new day in whatever life it is you are leading...

[angelinteractivestories]

Lauren and Anon - Part 7 [Final]

The boss of Coffee of Doom has recorded what you heard, taken your signature. He's ushering you out of the room now, thanking you for your time. Katie meets you outside, thanking you profusely. You assure her it's no big deal, you just want to catch the scumbag. Hanni has seemingly already left. Lauren is sitting at a nearby table. As is WIll. Guess he took your advice after all.

Leave & Go home You go to walk out of the door, catching Lauren giving you a small wave. You smile and wave back, leaving. On the way to the apartment, about five minutes, you pass by Adam who seems to be leaving. "Oh hey man, we're having another party for New Years. You want to come?"

Sure. "Sure, sounds fun."

"Awesome, see you there man!" He claps your shoulder as he passes, continuing on his way. Your phone dings when you enter the elevator. Checking it is a text from Lauren. 'Rude ;p'

Sorry, busy day. 'Sorry, busy day is all.'

'Sure it is. What was Kevin talking to you about?' You decide to tell her nothing. If it ever does come down to calling the police she'll find out herself then.

Inside your apartment you sit down on the couch trying to decide what to do with the rest of your day.

Just read. You pick up the romance novel you bought the other day and try to get yourself into it again. You don't exactly enjoy it but you read it anyway. It doesn't hurt to expand your knowledge and base further. Within three hours you have finished the book actually. You had somehow managed to get yourself into it afterall, enjoyed it thoroughly. Now it's time for dinner.

Burg You go for a hamburger, the nearest place is MacDunalds. It'd have to do. Something cheap, start saving up for that loan repayment. Sitting down with it you reflect on the day and... Lose yourself.

Samantha had done some fucked up shit before, and you'd heard the rumors. But you'd never believed them. Was she actually like that? And Lauren was being oddly more talkative to you. She had avoided you for days after the party and suddenly...

With how she was being you begin to wonder if Hanni had told her what was happening between you two. But if she had, it serves to wonder why would she start showing more interest in you now that Hanni was going after you? Was she just keeping you on the side as a toy she could return to before...?

Maybe… Maybe. Maybe she was. It hurts that it was a possibility. It hurts worse it's the only logical explanation. But you'd have to ask her personally to actually find out. What an awkward situation that would be.

You slowly eat through your burger and fries, leaving you there thinking. You notice a presence sitting next to you that hadn't been there before.

You slowly eat through your burger and fries, leaving you there thinking. You notice a presence sitting next to you that hadn't been there before.

Turn to face them. You turn to face the presence, finding Remus staring at you with a small smile. "Hello there friend, didn't expect to see you here." You nod and debate if it was worth it to be an asshole and just leave. "I think I need to apologize."

For? "For?" His smile fades now. He's facing you fully. A single finger moves to adjust his glasses with a small sigh. He must not have to apologize for anything much with how much this seems to be hurting him.

"I've been extremely too pushy lately. It's just.." You wait for him to continue. "In all honesty, I just wanted to fuck with you. But I see I took it a bit far if you're actively avoiding me."

It's fine. "It's fine." You go to stand and he does so as well. You glance at him and he shrugs. "I'll have a payment for you soon." A small understandable nod as you walk away. Your outside now and your phone dings. Checking it finds a text from Remus. 'How has she been, I haven't seen her lately.'

I can't say. ‘Can't say.' Another text back.

'Por Que?'

'She's been a bit weird to me lately.' You leave it at that, ignoring any other texts that may come in. You return home, stepping inside and into bed. You HAD to make it to work tomorrow.

Wacky. You find yourself on a large, green slimy pillar in the middle of the ocean. There's a squid slowly climbing up the pillar for you. It's screeching with such ferocity, it's tentacles beginning to peek over the top now. You try to run, your feet are rooted. You try to scream, your lips won't budge. The tentacle slams down on you from above, shoving you into the pillar. Inside you find yourself oddly serene. A voice in your head 'You will have to do.'

For what? "For what?" The oozing voice chuckles. At this point you realize it isn't speaking, but is projecting straight into your mind. It's sound is best described as a smoker's lungs who grew their own vocal chords and are currently dealing with a horrid case of bronchitis.

"When you awake next you will know your purpose."

...You wake up in your bed in a cold sweat.

Shower.

You throw yourself into the shower. Unfortunately you take longer than normal and you have to go to work hungry. You find the dream lingering in your head. What was that voice? What was it talking about? Was it even directed at you, or was it a vision of another world? You suppose only time could tell.

You're at work..

Do your best. You do your best, volunteering yourself where you aren't necessarily needed. You help your fellow employees even though most of them don't really seem like they need help. Boss seems to take notice of it and congratulates you at the end of your shift, also thanking you for working so hard. It makes you feel good. She even says don't worry about yesterday.

Check the phone. You check your phone. A text from Lauren, asking if you already got an invite to the New Years Party. You tell her that you did, she texts you again saying she hopes to see you there. Should you confront her right now?

Meet me at the Park.

'Sure. I'll be there in a moment.' You take off on a walk, wondering if you'll beat her there It only takes you about ten minutes before you are at the Signature Bench.

Text her You text her letting her know you are there and waiting. Within moments she sits down next to you, beaming brightly and widely. "What's up?"

What are we? You take a deep breath, look her straight in the eyes. "What are we?" She cocks her head to the side, the smile fading.

"I don't know? Humans, I guess."

Our relationship. Are we friends, or? "Our relationship. Are we friends? Interests? What?"

She visibly shifts, turning her body away from you. "Well."

"Just spit it out. I want to know." Now it's her turn to take a deep breath. Her thumbs are twiddling.

"I don't know."

Why don't you? "Why don't you?" She ruffles slightly, biting her lip angrily.

"I was interested in you. But I was scared because of all the stuff Sam had been saying." Of. Fucking. Course. "And then you met Hannelore, she started talking about you..." You stay silent, looking down at your feet. "She saw a wonderful person in you. A side of you I think I'd never see because I've never seen a side like that in anyone. So I. Took you on a date to try and see it. I didn't. I saw a guy too nice for his own good who didn't know what he wanted in me, or in life. A guy depressed beyond belief. But I definitely didn't see what Samantha had described."

Look the opposite way. You turn and look the opposite way. You didn't know how you'd react if she continued. "And when I saw that depression, I knew I couldn't handle it. You done your best to hide it, but it seeped out. It wasn't... It isn't something I can handle. I got scared. The most serious relationship I've ever had is with my roommate, and we're just roommates! I get terrified just seeing him be sad. Then seeing your.. So I tried to start avoiding you. Then I realized that was wrong, so I decided it would be better to start texting you. At the very least I want to be friends with you. I adore you. You're so generous, you're a great guy. Hell, you bought a random girl a necklace because she liked it so much." You honestly don't know how to react, or even what to say. "I'd love to be your friend. I /want/ to be your friend. But I can't be anything more than that. I'm sorry."

Smile. You smile. A bright smile. A smile you're surprised came to your face. "Thank you for being honest, Lauren." She smiles back and nods. A small tear is forming in the corner of her eye. "I'd love to be your friend, you seem like a great person to." She reaches forward to hug you, patting your back. Awkwardly you hug her back before she pulls away a moment later.

"I'm glad you understand." You nod. "So.. How have you and Hanni been?"

Tell her about the date. "They've been good! We went on a date the other night. It was so fun. I feel like I really had a chance to be myself. Not who I have been, y'know?" She's smiling still, nodding enthusiastically. "...She told me about what Samantha has been saying about me after."

"I know, she told me. You can skip over that."

"That's why I said what I did to her the next day. But it's been great." She smiles and pats your hand, going to stand.

"That's great. I have to go, unfortunately, but I'm glad things are looking up. Just... Try and get help for the depression. I know it's gone now, but it can sneak back into you even if you're with someone happy." You know she's right. But that's something you'll have to tackle later. There's a few more things you have to worry about first.

Go coffee of doom. You go to Coffee of Doom and stop just short of the door. Something wasn't right. Looking in you see Katie is at the counter alone, the guy from before leaning across it. You can't see either of his hands.

Enter slowly You enter in slowly, doing your best not to dingle the bell by sliding in through the crack. Katie's eyes glance to you, filled with panic. Now that you're inside you see his left hand has a wicked knife in it and is close to her neck. He doesn't seem to have noticed she glanced to you, or that you managed to sneak in by a hair. Had the cops already been called?

Quickly. You approach as quickly as you're comfortable doing so, running what you're going to do in your mind. Grab by the shoulders. Pull straight back and down so he can't hurt her. Landing against the ground so hard will stun him which will let you get the knife away. Katie can call for help... Where was Hanni and Kevin?

You grab him by the shoulders, he's younger than you and is skinny as hell so he shouldn't offer too much resistance. You yank back as hard as you can, also slamming down toward the floor. He yelps and loses balance, slamming down to the ground with a large oomph.

Slam foot. You bring your foot down onto his hand. Your heel comes down onto the tips of the fingers holding it while the rest stomps onto the wrist. He yells in pain while letting go of the knife which lets you kick it away with your free foot. Glancing behind you allows you to see Katie has already disappeared into the back.

Put your knee into his chest. You kneel and put your knee square into his chest, applying a good amount of her weight. You hold his free hand down with both of your hands. "Don't move or I may lose my balance and push even more weight into your chest, kid." He snarls, struggling slightly.

"Stupid bitch can't put out!"

Apply more weight. You apply just enough weight to suprise him, force the air out of his chest. This stops a good majority of the struggling. Hanni and Kevin are out of the back now. "Anon, are you okay?" She's keeping her distance while she talks. You nod.

Kevin has some rope. "I can tie him up if you want, Anon."

"...Why do you have rope."

"We're Coffee of Doom and it's been two months since Halloween. You do the math."

Tie him up please. You adjust your self to allow Kevin to tie his hands behind him once he's flipped. You both hoist him up and into a chair with his hands behind it so he will have trouble getting up. Kevin stands next to the door, calling the police. You walk over to Hanni, smiling sheepishly. "I'm glad your safe. Thank you for rescuing Katie.."

In all honesty. "I know it was stupid of me, but I didn't want him to get away. And I know he had a knife and I should have been more careful but.."

"You're safe, Katie is safe, he's caught. It's all fine." She smiles and hugs you tightly. You hug her back, gently rubbing your hands along her back. Kevin hangs up from his call.

"Should be here in about five minutes they say. You done good, kid."

Any time. "Any time." He grins and nods, gripping your shoulder tightly.

"You ever thought about being a bouncer? You could use some more beefing up, but you seem to know how to restrain people. You know how to deescalate situations?"

"Not exactly." It did have a potential of being better than a grocery store clerk though. You may need to look into that.

"Well if you ever decide let me know, I have a few people who'd be interested." You nod appreciatively.

..As it stands, you have two days until the party on Sunday night. Of course the day before it does have a tendency to fly by, but if you focus hard enough...

Both. You spend the rest of the day relaxing at Coffee of Doom, and then with Hanni afterward. You tell her about the conversation you had with Lauren and how she reacted. This seems to visibly remove the tension she'd been having with you lately. That night your dream doesn't have any visuals, but the slimey voice is omnipresent: "It is only a matter of time."

You awake...

Shower. You hop in the shower. You do a quick rinse, but carefully clean yourself. You have enough time for breakfast, the last dredges of your cereal. You make a conscious decision to shop after work today or else you'd starve tomorrow before the party. On the way to work you cross paths with Lauren who bids you a good morning with a large smile and a wave.

Just wave. You give her a wave back, continuing on your way to work happily. Once there Boss welcomes you with a happy hello. You return it and take your station. The day passes quickly, and you do get your grocery shopping done. Only the bare necessities, enough to survive for at least a week if you don't ration yourself properly. You take them back home, stocking up your pantries, fridge, and freezer.

Nap, it's been an eventful few days. You're tuckered out from work. You lay yourself down, taking a nap. ...The voice is there again. "Anon", you wonder how it knows your name. "You will be my Harbinger. You can not resist. Do you understand?" You find yourself agreeing even though you don't want to. Or do you? Your mind is splitting into two...

You awake not even an hour later. Maybe the nap wasn't a good idea.

Coffee.

You decide coffee is better than sleep right now. Entering Coffee of Doom, Katie and Hanni both greet you cheerfully. Lauren is at a table, reading. As is Will. "Designated reading table now, huh?" They both chuckle, Katie nods.

"We're making a sign for it tomorrow. What do you want to drink? It's on me."

Just a coffee. "Just a coffee. I need something to keep me awake right now."

"What's wrong?" Katie goes about making the coffee, waiting for your answer.

"Weird dreams lately. Not sure what they mean, but they're starting to get under my skin."

"What happens in them?" Both Hanni and Katie speak simultaneously.

Tell them. "The first one was some Squid forcing me down into a slime tower. Then this voice was.. Telling me stuff. And last night the voice was back. I took a nap, and it was there again. It said I was going to be its Harbinger, I had no choice." They both seem extremely weirded out. "How do you think it makes me feel?" A nervous chuckle arises from them at your joke. Well, it helped to talk about it at least.

The rest of your day you spent with Hanni. You return home late that night. "Sleep well," she bids you goodnight at her door. "Try not to let the dreams get to you." You nod and stumble into bed. Fortunately there was no dream tonight so you did get some rest...

Today is the day of the party.

Shower. You get yourself washed, taking extra time today. Once you hop out of the shower you wonder if you should go in to work today. Eating breakfast you mull it over..

Go to work. You go in to work, gotta make that money somehow right? You work through the day, but instead of going to Coffee of Doom today you find yourself going straight home. To prepare for the party, you tell yourself.

Eat lunch. You eat a quick ham sandwich. Black forest, mayonnaise, black olives. It's a good lunch. The rest of the day you spend watching TV, reading various books... Doing god knows what to avoid sleep. The time for the party has come along.

Hanni. You pause at her door and knock on it. "Coming!" Silence follows for the next few minutes. The door quickly comes open. She's wearing your t-shirt, and a pair of jeans. "Oh hey!"

"Hey! Going to the party?"

"Yup! You?"

"Yup!" You offer her your hand, she takes it and your both off to the party. 5 hours until New Years.

Wait a moment. You wait a few moments before knocking on the door. Adam opens it and you can see quite a few people have already gathered. "Hey you two, come on in!" He ushers you in, shutting the door behind you. "Make yourselves at home."

"Thanks Adam," Hanni breaks the grip. "I'm going to get a drink." You nod and look around. You see Samantha being sour in a corner alone. Good. Remus is socializing, so is Lauren. Smash Bros is set up on the TV right now.

Remus.

You approach Remus, elbowing him playfully. Today's a good day and he apologized. Maybe it's time to make a new friend. "Heyo."

"Hey, what's up?" He smiles and takes a sip of his drink. His smile is still unnerving but you can work past that. "Surprised to see you."

"Really?"

I'm trying to be more sociable. "I'm trying to be more sociable." He nods, sipping his drink again. You look around. Not too many people you recognize. Suddenly Hanni is at your side, offering you a drink. You gladly take it and sip it. You notice she's leaning against you. It reminds you of how you were at the last party with Lauren.

Put arm around Hanni. You put your free arm around Hanni, who looks up at you for a moment. Remus glances down at her before his eyes meet yours. He raises an eye but doesn't say anything. You roll your eyes, glancing down at Hanni for a longer moment than before. He nods, cracking a quick grin, before making off into the party.

"He a friend?"

Acquaintance I guess. "Acquaintance." She nods, taking a sip of her drink now. You can feel a seething gaze on the back of your head head. Funnily enough it's from the corner of the room.

Don't give her the satisfaction. You decide to not even give her the satisfaction, walking with Hanni into the party. Trying to find someone else to conversate with. Someone you both can talk to. You, somehow, find Katie and Lauren who are at the drinks table talking. "Hey you two."

Katie smiles at you both, winking at Hanni. Lauren greets you with a cheerful hello. "Liking the party," Katie asks. You nod, Hanni nods as well.

"Anything happen at CoD today?" All three of them shake their head, then Katie exclaims.

"Oh, actually! Boss said he needed to see you. He was talking to a friend of his and they have a position open and he thinks you may like it. I think he said something about guard, or bouncer."

I'll stop by tomorrow.

"I'll be there tomorrow," she nods. Lauren pokes her shoulder and whispers something. They both giggle madly. Hanni grabs your hand and pulls you away. You allow yourself to be led until you're over at the couch where Remus and Adam are currently 'dueling' in Smash.

"Want to play after them?"

Sure. "Sure." They quickly finish up and offer you the controllers. She sets up custom rules before allowing you to choose whoever you want. You pick Link, she picks Yoshi. The custom rules set you to Tiny, Bunny Ears, Launch rate is the lowest it can go. It takes forever before she eventually knocks you out. It was a close match though. "Yes!"

You hang your head in mock dejection.

Pull her. You pull her into your lap, which makes her drop the controller. "Eep!"

"Hey there." She's blushing madly, smiling ever so slightly. "This is your punishment for beating me."

"I'm fine with that." She pushes herself against you, Adam picks up the remote and changes the TV to the news where the balldrop will be happening in about five minutes.

"Alright everyone," he calls out. "Five and counting!"

Hold her tightly. You tighten your arms around her, holding her as the time counts down. Both of you are silent. You wonder if she's thinking the same things as you? Before you know it the countdown has begun.

"10!" Everyone yells.

"9!" Are the superstitions real?

"8!" Doesn't hurt to try.

"7!" New year, new you is such bullshit. But it applies..

"6!" Stick it to Samantha.

"5!" You've decided.

"4!" Here it is."

"3!" Work up the nerves.

"2!" Cold Feet, more like Fuck you.

"1!" When the cheering begins you lean slightly and kiss Hanni. She must have been thinking the same because she returns the kiss, leaning herself further into you as the moment overwhelms both of you into a small hole of endless time. That moment will forever be emblazoned in your mind whether you like it or not.

pay off Soon after you're both rushing away from the party and to your apartment. She's practically hanging off of you, you're doing your damndest to keep your hands in safe distances for now. Inside your apartment, in your room, she's derobing as are you. You still have a box of condoms, safety first kiddos, in your bedside drawer. Turning you lay eyes upon her pale, naked form. You thought she was beautiful on the date but now you're awestruck. Entirely silent.

Kiss. You kiss her again, more passionately and more deeply while you fish out the box of condoms. You take one out, open it and put it on as swiftly but as carefully as you can. She's practically trembling right now, you aren't sure if it's excitement or nerves. Or both! You gently put your hands on her hips, kissing her again as you lean her back into the bed and lay her down. You're over her now. The blush has overtaken her entire face, and is spreading down her neck. "Now is the time if you want to call it." She shakes her head.

Slow and sensual. You poise, pushing slow. Sensual is another question entirely but you do it to the best of your abilities. She shudders and makes small whimpers as you keep going forth. A few moments pass and your hips meet, your bodies pressing. She leans up to peck your lips, her eyes staring into yours as if to say she's ready. You begin the motions, starting off slow again but slowly picking up speed. Here is where you kick in your sensuality, doing your best to make the experience enjoyable for her. Your hands slowly slide up her body as you continue on.

Kiss her neck. You kiss her neck, your hands exploring her body as much as her's are yours. You continue to go forth, eventually hitting the point where you're both going at it like rabbits. Grunts, groans, moans and screams rack the walls and bounce the bed. You lose yourself and time, she loses count and essentially her mind. You both haven't felt that good in a long time. In the end she's laying on you, your arms are around her. Both of you are barely conscious.

Hold her and wait for her to sleep as you confess You hold her tightly, watching her eyes begin to flutter. With a gentle whisper to her ear, "I love you, Hanni." A smile gently curls her lips as she falls asleep with her head on your chest...

~FIN~

BUT WAIT! THERE'S MORE!

Overall: Good Ending.

Hanni: Best Ending.

Lauren: Good Friend Ending.

Remus: Neutral Ending.

Samantha: Worst Ending.

Will: Neutral Ending.

Katie: Good Ending.

Adam: Neutral Ending.

Sometime later you find yourself in Coffee of Doom. It's a few more hours until you have to go to work. A bar across town, working as a bouncer of some description. You and Hanni are currently dating, things are good. You are seeing a therapist now to the delight of Lauren. Will is still coming to Coffee of Doom everyday, you find out he actually is a high school student. He admits he had(has?) a crush on you, but recognizes the age difference. Remus is slowly growing on you but it's a very, very slow burn. Samantha doesn't come to Coffee of Doom anymore. Regulars to the coffee shop now say when they envision it in their mind they always have a specific scene in mind: You, standing at the counter ordering another drink. Katie is fixing it for you. Hanni is welcoming them in. Will is at his designated reading table and of course Remus is there sipping his coffee while leaning next to you on the counter.

[angelinteractivestories]

Lauren and Anon - Part 6

Dinner rolled to an end, everything went great. She still refused to tell you what was going on and it really dug under your skin but it didn't impede your fun at all. You called a cab home, things are going swimmingly until you're at your doors. You stop in front her's and she stands there, looking down at her feet. "You don't have to tell me if you don't want to."

"I.. Can we go sit down before I tell you?"

I’d rather you just tell me.

"I'd rather you just tell me." Still staring at her shoes, she sighs and looks up to you. Your eyes meet, she opens her mouth. Shuts it, opens it once more. "She was telling all of us how you'd been really, like, borderline abusive toward her. Yelling, never beating but screaming." You're taken aback. You had never raised your voice at her. How could she be spreading such lies? "She said you forced her into sex once or twice." You pale and feel as if you're going to faint.

WHAT.

"Why would she..." Hanni shook her head, wrapping her arms around you tightly. You stand there, stunned. How many people had she told who? How many would believe her? It could ruin your life! What was she thinking!?

"It's okay, Anon. Don't let it get to you." You notice yourself trembling in her arms, you're slowly wrapping around her as well.

Try to hold it in.

You try to hold it in, shaking your head. Her hands are rubbing against your back. Your teeth are biting down hard on your lip. A bit of blood trickles. The thought that you'd waste two of your years of life on her for her to do that. You lose it... Tears start flowing, you're sobbing. The culmination of everything is too much for you to handle. Hanni holds you tightly, whispering it's okay.

Wait. You stand there with her. Time passes. Eventually you feel strong enough to pull away. Hanni is looking at you worriedly. You smile wearily, shaking your head. "Are you going to be okay?" A small nod is all you can muster. "Here, let me take you to bed. I'll leave my phone number so you can call me if you need me." You nod again, allowing yourself to be led into your apartment and to your bed. She sits you on the edge, kissing your forehead before scribbling down the number.

Grab her You reach out and gently grab her wrist. She turns and faces you, cocking her head to the side. Gently you bring her down to your lap, holding her tightly again. She stays silent, leaning against you as you hold her. "Thank you," you whisper. She nods and shushes you. The moment is blissful. Silent.

Keep thanking her You just repeat the words, over and over. Holding her in your arms. You missed the warmth of another person against you. You missed intimacy. At least for now the panic was gone. It was just you and her. Eventually she pulls away from you. "Sleep, alright? I'll check on you tomorrow." You nod, waiting until you hear the door shut behind her. You go to bed, you don't think you dreamed but you don't want to remember.

You wake up to a knocking on the door.

Answer

You force yourself out of bed, walking to the door. Without thinking you answer to find Hanni. She's smiling, holding a cup of coffee and another muffin. "Good morning! I brought some feel-good stuff." You smile and let her in silently.

Take the coffee You take the coffee and sip it. Cinnamon and caffeine flowing into your veins, revitalizing your entire being. She's standing nearby with the muffin, waiting. Her face looks like she barely got a wink of sleep. You take it and bit out of it. "Thank you." She nods and smiles, still standing close by.

Hug her.

You set the coffee down and hug her tightly. She hugs you back, burying her face into your chest. "You okay?" She nods. She doesn't feel like she is with how tense her body is, but you don't feel like pressing. You hear your phone dinging in your bedroom.

Ask. "You gotta go to work?" She shakes her head, smiling up at you. "Day off?" She nods, pulling away from you.

"How about you?" You shrug. At this point you're thinking about just not showing up and see what happens. You don't think you could handle seeing Samantha anyway. ...Then what should you do?

See if she wants to hang out. "Wanna just hang out?" She shakes her head a bit in thought before nodding. "Whatcha wanna do?"

"TV?" You nod and sit down next to her, turning it to the channel from before. "Let's not get lost in it this time though!" You chuckle and nod, sitting with her. She timidly pushes herself against you. Still feeling tense.

2 hours. Two hours roll by. You're feeling much better than you were yesterday. Than you have been for two weeks now. Maybe knowing she was being a bitch about it pulled the weight off your shoulders? Either way you only had Hanni to thank. ...What were you and Hanni anyway? You were going after Lauren, but Hanni has shown no problem moving in on you. Does she know you were pursuing Lauren?

What now. "What now?" Hanni shrugs openly, rolling her head to one side. She's being more apathetic than you. That's a first. "Well we can't just sit in all day, we need to at least get out and do something." She nods slowly. You can hear your phone ding again off in your bedroom.

Walk. "Let's go for a walk!" You stand, realizing your still in your pajamas. Did you ever change into them? You really don't remember doing it. "After I change my clothes." She smiles and waves you away as you dive into your room.

Normal jeans.

You throw on your normal jeans, buttoning up. Your shirt is put on as well, just a plain black tee. Your phone is flashing out of the corner of your eye. This your last chance before you leave.

Check. You check your phone. Three messages. One from Lauren, two from Remus. Lauren is asking what's up. Weird. You respond back nothing. Remus says 'Heyo friendo! Don't forget your debto. Also hope you're doing better! ;)' You slide your phone in your pocket and go back to the living room where Hanni is standing now. She smiles at you, you smile back.

Ask if ready. "Ready?"

"As I'll ever be!" You open the door, ushering her out. Into the elevator you both go and down to the ground floor. Out onto the street. Choosing a random direction you both set off. She's staying oddly close to you, just inches of your arm.

Take her hand. You hesitate for a moment but take her hand. You see a blush spring onto her cheeks while she glances at you. "Anon."

"Yes?" She shook her head, continuing to walk alongside you with a smile.

"...What's going on between you and Lauren?" Well it was your turn to talk now it seemed.

Honestly I don't know. "Honestly I don't know." She cocks her head. You shrug, tightening your grip on her hand. The sun is beating down on you. Not hard since it's still relatively in the morning. Hanni is being quiet still. Was she just feeling awkward about last night, or?

I know. "I know I've said this way too much, but I really can't thank you enough." She smiles and gently punches your arm.

"Leave it alone, for real." You smile back. Even if this didn't go anywhere it felt good to at least know that things wouldn't always be how they had been.

Lets get to know each other. "Let's get to know each other."

"Sure. You go first."

"Did you see yourself being here five years ago?" She laughs and shakes her head. "Yeah me either."

"What do you do for fun?"

What is fun. "What is fun." She laughs and gently pops your arm again. "I'm serious, I don't even know that word anymore." You notice her laughing has died oddly quickly. You glance to the side to see her staring forward. You follow her gaze to see Samantha approaching, a bright smile on her face.

Keep walking.

You tighten your grip on Hanni's hand and keep walking forward. Both of your expressions have gone stoic. She's still smiling openly, approaching your both. Now within earshot, she acts shocked. "Hanni, what are you doing with that scumbag?" You feel her hand tighten now.

fuck off "Fuck off." You keep walking, offering the best smile you can muster. This time she actually seems taken aback by it. Hanni's thumb rubs across the back of your hand. Samantha goes to grab you as you pass by but you just keep walking, just out of range of her hand.

"You'll regret that!" You are almost tempted to look back. Almost. You reel it back in, walking on.

You okay?

"You okay?"

"Yup!" Your phone dings in your pocket again. It's about lunch time now and you're passing by a Milk King. Would be a great time to stop for a little bit, work out the adrenaline on a burger.

Want to eat? "Want to eat?" She nods, allowing you to lead her to the restaurant. "Get what you want." She orders a half-pounder. "Where are you going to fit all that?! You're tiny!" She just gives you a devilish grin and moves on to get her drink.

chicken tender basket You order a chicken tender basket, 12 pieces. It comes with two sides of white gravy and fries. You get your drink and join her at the table. She offers you a smile when you sit, staring out the window. "Try not to be so crass." You raise an eyebrow. She turns to face you, completely serious. "I know you're emotions are high, and I admit she deserved it, but don't stoop to her level. It only proves her point." She was right. You did slip up, and you probably made her feel vindicated in her lies. You should be wary of yourself.

Comment you appreciate it.

"I appreciate it, but I'm fine really."

"I mean it." She leans forward, a steel in her eye you have noticed before. "Be careful." You nod slowly, trying not to come off as unnerved. Such a sudden change in tone and act was worrying. Your phone dings again, as does her's.

shrug it off You shrug it off and watch as she pulls out her own phone. A mutter of worry, then she turns her attention back to you. "I have time to eat, but boss is calling me in. Emergency apparently." You nod understandably. In fact, you wonder why your boss hasn't tried calling you yet. Maybe she just didn't care. Would make sense with how much attention she spends at the store on a daily basis. At least you had a good time up to this point.

The lunch is had with laughs around, jokes, and conversing. You come away feeling like you got to know each other at least a little more. Your phone still hasn't been checked and Hanni has already left.

You check your phone to find two texts from Lauren. 'What happened? Sam texted me and is really pissed. Told me you done something.' You wonder if she believed the lies or just wanted to get your side of the story. It is always best to try and provide both sides so they can figure out their own truth.

go to the park You take a stroll to the park. Everything is much brighter today. Sun is shining, people are talking. It's just a great day overall. Of course it's still cold what with it being the tail end of December, but it's cold enough to just be crisp. What a wonderful type of weather!

On the way to the park you're stopped by a man with a clipboard. He asks you "Wine or Cheese?" You assume it's a questionnaire and go on your way, saying you'd rather not answer. What a weirdo. Once you're at the park you notice Will is sitting alone, reading a book.

Approach. You approach, casting a shadow over his book. "Excuse me, trying to read." You stay silent, leaning down to cast an even bigger shadow. "Dude." He looked up to meet your face. His eyes seemed to sparkle behind his glasses as he jumps out of his seat, clearly ecstatic to see you again. "Hey!"

You grin and nod. "Hey." He's appears even paler in the sunlight. It was actually kind of off-putting.

What are you reading? "What are you reading, kiddo?" You sit down next to him. He shuts the book for you to see the cover.

"Bioshock: Rapture. It's a prequel to the series, describes how Rapture was built and all the troubles it faced during construction. You... You do know Bioshock, right?"

"Do I know Bioshock? Do I know Bioshock! Do I know Bioshock... How old do I look to you, man?" .... "On second thought don't answer that." Will smiles sheepishly, keeping the book shut.

Why the park? "Why aren't you at Coffee of Doom? I mean I love the park as much as the next guy, but."

"Nervous. I don't want to go in after yesterday. I'm scared they'll think I'm with Him." You nod. It's entirely understandable. He had been with the dickhead when he told the barista he was going to assault her.

"I'm sure they'll understand if you just explain man." He shook his head, turning back to his book nervously.

Doesn't hurt to try "Doesn't hurt to try man." Your phone dings again. "They saw me talking to you, they know you at least aren't as bad as the other dude." Will just shrugs and keeps reading his book. You sigh and pull out your phone. Lauren again. 'Answer me, Anon.'

She was trying to bad mouth Hanni. 'She was trying to badmouth Hanni, I told her to shove it.' The response is almost immediate.

'Hanni? You mean Hannelore? That's a cute name. But that's now what Sam said? She says you were walking down the street, saw her, approached her and said fuck off.'

‘She's lying, Lauren.' A few minutes pass, and another text.

'Look, I don't know. And honestly? I don't care. Telling her the same thing. Leave me out of your drama.'

You sigh and lay the phone down. Will is glancing at you out of the corner of his eye. "Popular, huh?"

Something like that. "Something like that." You roll your shoulders, leaning over to groan with your head in your hands. Will shuts his book.

"Want to talk about it?"

Not really. "Not really." He shrugs, and goes back to his book.

"Suit yourself, I'll keep reading." Sassy kid... You stand, patting his shoulder muttering something about seeing him later.

You drop by Coffee of Doom to see Hanni talking with Katie, the barista from the other day, Samantha nowhere to be seen.

Go unside "Has Samantha been in today?" Katie shakes her head. "Is she due in today?" Another shake of the head. At least you didn't have to worry about that. The boss comes out from the back with Hanni trailing. A skinny guy with blonde hair trailing down to his shoulders. "You must be Anon. Nice to meet you." He offers his hand.

Firm. You take it, giving it a firm shake. "Kevin. Nice to meet you, would you come back to my office?" You nod and follow him back. Inside is set up a small camera and a sheet of the paper on his desk. "Read that paper."

Thoroughly. You pick up the sheet of paper, reading it through thoroughly. It's a contract saying you consent to be recorded for a small interview, that you are only repeating what you have seen yourself, and that you understand fully what this will be used for. It hasn't been notarized but even on top of that you question just how binding of useful a contract like that would be. Would it actually hold any clout? If it came down to court it would seem you'd have to testify anyway. "Alright."

"You agree?"

Question the legality. "I'm all for this, sir, but you think this is a good idea? It isn't notarized and I personally feel like it'd hold little to no weight in court. I'd rather just tesitfy on the stand if it came to that." He nodded appreciatively, steepling his fingers.

"Just a precaution in case we have to take it to the police, son." You shrug and sign it willingly. He stands and moves to the camera, "Starting recording now.”

[angelinteractivestories]

Lauren and Anon - 5

Lauren took you to a ramen shop to show you some gratitude for the necklace. She was being oddly attentive to you the entire time. Considering how she had been acting toward you at the party it was an odd experience. Not an unwelcome one, but odd nonetheless.

You had finished eating and were both walking to nowhere specifically. She was silent again, looking around the city as you went. Everything was oddly grey today. The pavement was lighter than normal, buildings darker than you remember, her hair wasn't the same shade of brown either. Nor her eyes. Everything had a much more dull tone to it. It was an unsettling realization.

Try to talk.

"Thanks for the ramen." She nods, continuing to walk. Her eyes and glancing around, back and forth from the street to the buildings. "Was your Christmas good?"

"Yeah, yours?" This time you nod. She was so talkative before the meal, what was going on? She smiles at the response continuing to walk. "Glad it was!"

Why isn’t she talking anymore.

"You were so talkative before, what's up?" She makes a small hum, turning her head to look at you as you two talk. "You take me to a surprise meal, you're all excited before and then just. You start blanking. Something has to be wrong." She makes a sheepish grin, shrugging her shoulders.

"Sorry, just thinking is all. There really isn't anything wrong. Am I allowed to have a dip of energy?" The last remark feels mighty annoyed. And it sounds oddly familiar.

Just worried about you. "Just worried is all." She makes a small grunt before turning her face to the street in front of her. You're both bathed in silence for quite a few moments. She glances at her phone when she pulls it out of her pocket before walking faster.

"Gotta go, I'll text you later!" A small wave over her shoulder is the goodbye she offers before disappearing into the crowds of the street, leaving you alone.

go to coffee of doom

With a sigh you make your way to Coffee of Doom. Stepping inside you notice everything is oddly silent. No one is at the counter, and a few people are sitting at the tables. A small sign is laid on the counter reading 'Please wait a moment, we'll be right back!' Wasn't it unsafe to just leave it entirely unattended?

Wait

You lean back against the counter to wait, gently humming to yourself. The customers at the tables are quietly conversing amongst themselves. Occasionally one of them shoots you a glance. You raise an eyebrow in their direction which causes the one glancing at you to put a face to his hand, whispering something to his friend who chuckles.

Ignore it. You roll your eyes and decide to ignore whatever it is they may be trying to do. Another few moments pass and the black haired girl from the other day walks out. Shortly after, the speakers begin to emit sound again. "Welcome to Coffee of Doom, how may I help you?" You offer her a smile and turn back around to look at the board. You can't necessarily find anything that is inherently appealing.

"How about a.. Uh, 'Melt Your Face' Latte?" She nods and goes to making the drink.

Ask about Hanni?

A pause while she works. "Is Hanni-- Er, Hannelore. Working today?" The girl pauses for a moment and nods while she continues to work. "Already left?" She shakes her head this time. You nod appreciatively. The drink is quickly laid down in front of you. You reach in your pocket to get your wallet when a small amount of cash is laid down on the counter in front of your by a pale hand.

"I'll cover his drink!" It's the boy who was whispering before. He can't be much older than sixteen. The girl shrugs and takes his money. The way she slaps it into the register makes you assume it was exact.

Who might you be? "And who might you be?" A small pink blush invades his cheeks when you ask. You take a sip from your drink as he stammers out that his name is Will, short for William obviously. Then he remarks about how obviously you knew that and started apologizing if he insinuated that you were dumb. "I didn't take it as that, don't worry." He nods for a moment, looking over his shoulder to his friend who's sitting at the table staring out the window.

Well thanks for the drink. You take your own sip from the drink, glancing to his friend yourself, "Well thanks for the drink, Will. I appreciate it." He nods and starts slinking back to his table. You move down to the end of the counter, continuing to sip at your drink. You can't help but wonder what that was about.

Wait for Hanni

You decide to wait for Hanni, listening to the music as it plays. You can't help but feel the gaze of Will and his friend occasionally land on you but you choose to ignore it, letting them think you don't notice. Both of them seem to just be in high school so why were they hanging out in some strange cafe? Weirdos.

You catch yourself and shake your head. In all honesty you can't criticize them. Back home all you done after school was sit in your friend's truck and drink beer outside of the town's gas station.

Check for Hanni

You look over the counter to see Hanni walking from the back. She notices you and gives you a wave. You wave back while she takes her normal spot, conversing with her fellow employee. You notice Will's friend has stood now and is approaching both of them. He has that same jackass grin as Remus.

Watch carefully You watch him carefully as he approaches. You're just out earshot due to how low he's keeping his voice but you do know he says something. Both of the girls look shocked. The black haired one reaches over the counter and slaps him across the face. Instead of being taken aback or even acting offended he just laughs it off even though it left a red hand print across his cheek. He goes over to the table Will is sat it, says something and is gone leaving the boy alone. What just happened?

Wave Hanni.

You wave to catch Hanni's attention, motioning her over. She pats her co-worker's shoulder before coming to you. "What happened?" She glances over her should before leaning close to you.

"He walked up to Katie and said 'How much does it cost for me to fuck you silly over this counter? Trust me, I won't take no for an answer.' And I guess you saw the rest." You chalk it up to being a dumb teenager and tell Hanni to let Katie know you're sorry it happened. She nods and breaks away from you back to her station. Your legs are starting to get tired and your drink is empty.

Talk to Will

Without any external warning you walk over and sit down at the table across from Will. His face is perturbed, hands in his lap as he stares down at his drink. "Alright Will, let me hear it." He looks up from his drink to you. "He's your friend right?"

"Something like that," he mutters. You nod appreciativley, grasping your hands together on the table.

"Do you know what he said to my friend?" Will stays silent, refusing to look at you. The shamed visage says it all.

No it was him. "I know it was him, not you." Will glances at you, your eyes meeting momentarily. "His decisions don't reflect on you, remember that." The boy draws in a deep breath, holding it in his thin frame.

"He said he had to go but he wanted to tell the girl something before he left. I asked him what, and he just told me.. He said 'She needs to know what I'm going to do to her later.' Then, came back and told me he'd see me later." You nod, keeping a nonplussed expression on your face. Will seems uncomfortable just uttering the response but appears consoled somewhat from the little reassurance you offer.

Sounds like a guy you shouldn't hang with "Sounds like someone you don't need to associate yourself with." Will gives a small shrug.

"You do what you can to fit in." You could appreciate that. Not necessarily something you agree with, but you can appreciate it nonetheless. "Did you like the coffee..?"

"Of course. Everything tastes better free." You flash him a playful grin, turning in the chair so your body is now facing the counter with your face. He chuckles and you feel like you notice him blushing again. He was extremely pale, that may just be his body temperature all things considered.

Watch Hannie & Katie You watch Hanni and Katie as they continue to work. Some time later Will dismisses himself with a small goodbye to you before disappearing out the door. Good kid, heart in the right place at least. Some time has passed and you notice Samantha come in. She slips behind the counter just as Hanni slips out. She's working here now? Hanni comes over and sits down across from you. "Hanging out here a lot now, arent't you?" It's just about six and you got here at four.

I like the atmosphere "I like the atmosphere. Unique." She agrees and sighs, resting her head on the table. "Tired?"

"Mmmhmmm." It's about time for dinner, you could invite her out. Or you could offer to cook her a meal. That does involve going to the grocery store, which you need to do. But both of those options require social interaction and effort. Was it really worth it..?

Ask her to dinner "If you're so tired," you begin. "How about I take you out to dinner?" She looks up from the table, smiling. "Obviously this is just my way of worming my way to spending more time with you," you joke. She laughs and stands, waiting for you to do the same.

"Where do you want to go?" That's a first. You'd been having to ask that question lately. It was a nice change of pace.

Steak "Is a steakhouse good?" She looks down at herself in casual wear, and at you still in your uniform. "...After we change, of course."

"I'd love to." She walks with you to the apartment building. She says she'll be right back and slips into her apartment.

Formal casual You decide on formal casual. The last time you wore this was for job interviews. In all honesty you aren't sure why you bought it specifically for that occasion. You never wore it outside of that. Except for today. White dress shirt, black dress pants, and a navy blue blazer. Walking out, Hanni is nowhere to be seen.

Wait You decide to wait. And wait. Then wait some more. Right as you decide it's enough waiting and go to knock the door opens in front of you. Her normal mess of hair appears to have been straightened a bit and brushed down. She's wearing a pair of what appears to be black denim jeans, a white button blouse, and a small bracelet on her left hand you haven't seen before. Now would be the time to stop gaping, you think to yourself.

Compliment her "You're absolutely stunning, Hanni." She smiles, a tiny blush springing onto her cheeks.

"You clean up well yourself."

You grin and offer your arm to her. "Shall we go to dinner?" She takes it, practically hanging off of you considering the height difference. As per usual the brain decides to remember the last time this happened. With Samantha.

The elevator shuts behind you as your mind drifts. It was back in your home town before you both moved out here. It was your first official date. She was gorgeous, in a red dress that complimented every inch and feature of her. You... You were just some dope who wasn't mature enough for her yet but still trying none the less, dressed in a white button down and black dress pants and a tie borrowed from your father.

CAll a cab You call a cab, an Uber, a Lyft, whatever term the kids are using this day. Ever the gentleman you open the door for her, sliding into the seat after her. She whispers a thank you as the car takes off down the street. You smile and nod a welcome, feeling her gently lean her shoulder against your arm.

Back then Samantha was much more carefree. She didn't care you weren't as mature as she was yet. It was odd that you were the same age but somehow leagues away from each other. You remember being stiff as a poker the entire date. Sit up straight, slowly and carefully eat the soup. Cut the steak into small pieces, chew thoroughly. Buy her a nice dessert after the dinner... What happened between you two? The taxi has stopped.

You step out, offering your hand to help Hanni out. She graciously takes it and steps out with a dazzling flourish. What a graceful specimen she was.

Offer your arm You offer your arm to her again. She takes it and allows you to lead her to the door. You open and step in simultaneously with her. The hostess waiting at the front greets you with a bright smile. The lights are dim, candles lit on every table, and the air is filled with scents of meat and vegetables. "Table for two," you inform her. She nods and grabs two menus.

"Right this way." She leads you to a small couple's table, allowing you to situate yourselves. "Your waiter will be right with you.

She can order anything she wants

"You can order anything you want," you nod to her. She smiles and shakes her head.

"Oh that's fine, thank you though." Your waiter comes over. A guy around your age who looks like he couldn't hate his life anymore but is putting on a smile.

"What can I get you to drink?" She orders a coke, you order a strawberry daiquiri. Nothing too hard, but just enough to loosen you up. "I'll be right back with those."

"I didn't take you for one to drink," Hanni remarks.

I'm full of surprises "I'm full of surprises." She grins at you, nodding.

"So I've seen." What does that mean? You let it go when the waiter approaches with your drinks. He asks if you're both ready to order and you nod. "I'll have lamb chops, garlic mashed potatoes and asparagus as the sides." He nods and scribbles it down. "No soup."

"What about you, sir?"

Tbone "T-Bone, medium rare. Fries, and a cup of chicken tortilla soup as my second side." He scribbles down your order as well and is off to place it. This leaves you two alone again. Hannelore is smiling at you, you're smiling back. A thought crosses your mind and before you can reflect on it your mouth blurts it out: "I can't thank you enough for these last few days." She raises an eyebrow, her hand coming to rest on the table near yours.

Bright spot "I've been having a rough few days, and you've been a bright spot in all of them." She seems touched, putting her hand on yours. "I really can't thank you enough, Hannelore."

"No need to. You're a great person, I enjoy your company." She smiles at you. You smile back, your mind briefly flashing to Lauren. What would she say if she found out? "May I ask why you've been having bad days...?"

Truth "I broke up with my girlfriend of three years the other day. It's been about a week now. It's still hurting me hard, and I've trying my best to avoid her. I done something stupid the other day, and I don't know if I'm starting to regret it or not. But through it all, you've been a constant shining light. Even Coffee of Doom has been now. It's... Odd." Hannelore nods as she listens.

"Samantha told me she broke up with you. But why did you two separate?"

"We grew apart and decided to end it before things got any worse." Hannelore's face seems to fall when you say this. "What is it?" She shakes her head, saying she'd rather wait until later to tell you."Is it that bad..?" Maybe that's why she had been acting so weird to you lately…

[angelinteractivestories]

Thank you for the 4 days of entertainment and enjoyment with anons, I see we've had some issues today but I'm sure we'll still be able to have fun with these. Arigoto.

I know we will! I reflected on what the other Anon said and I’m going to do my best to better myself.

[angelinteractivestories]

Lauren and Anon - 4

Hanni's shift has come to an end and she's sat down across from you. Her fingers are raking through her hair to deknot some of the gentle curls. She appears tired, but happy and content. You smile at her, she smiles back. "So want to talk, or what?"

Ask about her day.

"How was your day?" She rolls her shoulders, making a small groan before leaning across the table.

"Terrible. Something was up with my friend, she was in here earlier raising hell. Left when my boss told her to grow up or get out. No response from Lauren all day, customers have been rude.." Her hands are in her head now. "But!" She nearly bounces out of the chair. "That's fine because it's like a new day when work ends! How was yours?"

Dull.

"Dull. Nothing too exciting, just same old." She nods respectfully, taking your coffee for a sip of her own. "Hey."

"I made it, I deserve a sip." She grins at you, sliding the cup back to you. "Anyway I need to go home for a few minutes to check on something. I'm free after that."

I'll walk you there.

"I'll walk you home." She smiles and stands, allowing you to walk along beside her out of the door.

"That's nice of you, but you don't have to." You shrug and she keeps walking. You notice her glancing at you out of the corner of her eye, trying to pretend like she isn't. At the apartment you take the elevator up to the fourth floor. She goes to her apartment door and takes a deep breath before disappearing into her room.

Check my own apartment.

You step inside to check if you left anything on, or if you forgot anything. Everything appears to be in order, nothing wrong or missing. Hanni appeared behind you in the door frame. "Forget something?"

"Just checking something." You turn to face her. She's wearing different shirt this time, plain white that's a bit flowy toward the edges. "So want to do anything?" She puts a finger to her chin, humming before shrugging.

Hungry. "Hungry?" She shakes her head. You shrug and lean against the wall. "We could always just hang out and watch TV again." Ding, goes your phone. "Or play a game. But not sure I have anything you'll like." Ding chimes the phone once more.

"Popular, huh?" You shrug with a sheepish smile. "Let's watch TV until we can think of something."

Check phone.

You check your phone to find two texts from Remus. 'Checking in on my favorite friend.' 'Don't forget my loan.' You make a small groan before setting down on the couch next to Hanni who you notice is setting quite a distance farther from you than last time. "Whatcha want to watch?" You offer the remote to her and she goes to browsing.

Watch her. Your eyes drift to her. As before you notice her hair hasn't been tamed today but it's oddly cute. Her shirt, now that she's idle, has fallen on her body. Her slender fingers are clicking away at the remote. Occasionally her face makes a grimace or a small smile but she still hasn't stopped. Finally she halts on a channel dedicated to 'Cartoons of Years Past'. A lot of stuff you remember from your childhood is premiering. "Here we go!"

Continue.

You tear your eyes away to the TV for a moment but you find yourself gravitating back to Hanni. Her form is so serene now that she is occupied by something. She seems frail the more you observe her but there is still a sense of strength about her. You can't help but smile happily looking at her. A few moments pass and she glances at you, turning to look at you with a smile of her own. "Everything okay?"

Lost in thought. "Just lost in thought is all," you shrug and do manage to turn your attention back to the TV now. Your phone goes off again, but you choose not to check it this time. Whether this is because you feel it will ruin the moment or you dread who it may be from even you are unsure. But time passes nonetheless and soon the moment must come to an end.

You're pulled back to reality by Hanni gently touching your hand. "I'm gonna go now, okay?"

"Hng? Oh... Alright." You smile and stand, walking to the door with her. "Thanks for hanging out again Hanni."

"Hanni?" Ah shit. "I like it." She grins slightly, patting your hand before dashing across to her room. Both doors quickly shut behind her, leaving you alone with the sound of the TV.

Check phone. You check the message that came in on your phone. It's Lauren, oddly enough. 'Change of plans, you available tomorrow?' You have work obviously, but otherwise no plans as far as you're aware.

Sure. 'Yeah sure, what do you want to do? I work to about 2 but entirely free after that!' You fix a frozen dinner absentmindedly. You would cook. You should cook. But you just can't bring yourself to do it. It would be repetitive to say why at this point, but part of your mind is screaming it all along the way. The last time you cooked was for Samantha. It was tacos, funnily enough. ...You wonder if you'll ever be comfortable eating your own tacos again.

Ding! 'Meet me at the park tomorrow, surprise!'

Alright. 'Alright.' You the frozen dinner is prepared. You eat it and watch TV. You don't bother to change the channel, going on a nostalgia trip for the rest of the night. No botherings from the phone, mind happy, stomach happy. You go to bed satisfied that night. You dream of Hanni, Lauren, Remus. Even Adam. There was a bunch of coins and dice. Weird dream.

Shower. You hop in the shower, washing yourself off with the warm water. Everything always seems better in the shower. Things are okay, you're alone in your own little warm world. Perfect time. Another bowl of cereal and off to work. You get there and everyone is waiting around inside. Most of them seem weirdly out of place today.

Ask around. The first guy you go to, an acquaintance Will, is smiling brightly. "What's going on Will?" He glances at you, never losing his smile. "Hello?"

"Boss told us to wait here. We are." He didn't expressly tell you to wait. But would it be better to wait around yourself? Customers would start filing in soon. It crosses your mind that you most likely need groceries yourself as well. Should do that soon before you run out of supplies.

Wait. You decide to wait around yourself as well. Only a moment passes before Boss comes back. She waves everyone off to work, saying she was sorry for the delay that it was a false alarm. You go on your way to your station.

About ten minutes pass before your first customer comes along. Samantha. "Hello ma'am, how was your shopping experience?"

"Good thank you." She's just putting everything on the conveyor belt, being actually respectable for once.

Stick to the script. "Would you like a Company Affiliated Credit Card?" You begin to ring up her groceries when she doesn't respond, sacking it all for her as she throws it into her cart. In silence you both finish the transaction. "Thank you for shopping, have a great day!" She makes a grunt and goes on her way.

Lauren Surprise huh? What could it be. She hasn't been dealing with you outside of the necklace. She didn't even know any of your interests. What kind of surprise...

Work goes by quickly and you make your way to the park, still in uniform, still wondering what could be going on. You take a seat at a bench, waiting for... "Hey there!" She puts her hands over your eyes from behind.

Smile. You smile but choose to stay silent. Moments pass. "Hey, talk to me." You continue to stay silent, you can feel her leaning on you from behind. Her hands leaves your eyes, revealing her upside down face in your face. "You're no fun."

Tease. You reach up, grabbing both of her cheeks with your hands. "They call me Joy Buzzington. Don't forget that, I'll just absorb all your fun." You pat both her cheeks gently, pushing your twisting yourself to look behind the bench as she straightens up.

"I'll remember that. Come on, let's go!"

Go where? "Where are we going?" You stand anyway, allowing yourself to follow her somewhat mindlessly. She giggles without giving you a response continuing to skip along.

"Don't question, just follow!" You continue along, passing by more and more windows that continue to blur together. Finally you stop in front of a thematic restaurant. A Ramen shop, themed around street shops in Japan.

Looks nice. "It looks nice." She nods excitedly, bouncing around to face you. She's wearing the necklace again. At least she's getting good mileage out of it.

"I wanted to thank you and I thought this would be a good way to start!" Without warning she goes on her tiptoes, pecking your lips before disappearing into the building. You stand there, starstruck for a second before entering in after her. She's already gotten a two person table for you.

Recommend anything? "Do you recommend anything?" You sit down across the table from her. "I'm up to try anything knew so don't worry about my disposition."

"I would try the Tonkotsu Ramen if I were you. It's all on me, by the way! So don't even think about paying anything." A waiter has approached you both, giving a respectful bow.

Chef’s Special.

"Yes sir, but what toppings would you like?" You glance at Lauren who quickly butts in.

"He'll have seasoned pork, boiled egg, and kamaboko." He nods and scribbles it down, then getting her order after before disappearing away again. "Trust me you're going to love this. If you've seen any anime ever you've just ordered the most stereotypical ramen as well, so you're in for a treat if that's your style." You can't help but appreciate how passionate and enthusiastic she is. It's improving your mood as well, and helping you discover exactly what you saw in her that night.

Alright "Alright." Looking around you can really appreciate just how 'authentic' the restaurant is made to be. It's all stylistic, there's a bar or two around for anyone looking for some good sake. The few booths that are around are small. Mostly designed for two people, party ones spruced here and there. Paper lanterns hanging from the ceiling, paintings...

"It's beautiful, isn't it?"

I guess. "I guess." Looking now you can appreciate her looks. She's wearing a black band shirt, her hair is kept in a short straight pixie cut, her brown eyes are observing you silently.

Start a conversation. "How was your Christmas?"

"Excellent! Yours?" Your mind flashes back to the lazy day spent on the couch with Hanni. A small sigh escapes your lips.

"Great." You flash a smile, your eyes glancing around her smiling face. She's extremely peppy today. "How's games?"

"Don't get me started. Had a horrid losing streak yesterday. It went onto like, seven matches in a row."

Nod. You nod and let her go on, and on about how every one of the matches was. Your eyes wander over her. She's not as thin or frail as Hanni, but she has a larger sense of delicacy about her. Often times that's not a good thing, you think to yourself. A sense of delicacy can be good of course but it leads to breakage quickly and easily. Snapping mentally, assault...

You pull your mind away when the ramen is sat down in front of you. It smells and looks wonderful. But... You don't know how to use chopsticks.

Try to learn. You slowly pick them up, trying to figure it out yourself. Fumble, pick them back up. Fumble, pick them back up. ...You have a small understanding of it now, far from proficient but enough to eat it. All of the flavors mix together, it tastes heavenly. Lauren is staring you down as you eat, grinning widely when she sees the pleasure cross your face.

Raise eyebrow You raise an eyebrow in her direction which is responded to by a small giggle as she starts digging into her own. You both share the serene moment, slowly eating and enjoying the ramen together. "Thanks for having this meal with me, I know it's not much but it's a start on repaying you." You nod.

"I'm having a great time, don't worry about it."

[angelinteractivestories]

Lauren and Anon - 3

You and Hannelore(Hanni) have been watching the Anthony Bourdain marathon. Admittedly it is an odd chocie of marathon for Christmas Day, but you appreciate it. Samantha has largely ignored you, Hanni has said she's spending the day with her room mate. Remus hasn't bothered messaging you either. Samantha sent you another message from her old number, apologizing for the penis ad spam prank. It never really crossed your mind it would be a prank.

"I have to apologize," Hanni says while standing up to stretch.

You're welcome over whenever you want. "You're welcome over whenever you want." You offer a smile and walk her to the door. She hesitates at the frame and smiles back.

"You really are a sweet guy. I'm sorry to hear what happened between you and Samantha. I hope she doesn't stop you from coming to Coffee of Doom more often." With that she disappears into her room leaving you in the hallway with your own door open. It;s roughly 3 PM. You have until 10 to do anything you want. But obviously nothing is really open on Christmas.

Troll

You go trolling down the street in search of any shops that may be open. Most fast food places are, a lot of the privately owned shops aren't except for the oddball ones. Things like Harry's Illusions and Magic, Benjamin's Books and Oddities. One shop that's been under construction for a while seems to have it's opening day today. "Grandma Wishi's Mystical Goodies and Artifacts."

Reading material. You open the door to a small bell jingle. "Good afternoon," a young man is at the counter. He has purple hair, and is wearing thin-framed glasses. "Feel free to look around, don't steal anything. I'll know." He offers a cheeky grin with the sentence. Each shelf is organized by genre, alphabetically.

Romance. 'Fabio's Grandiose Jaunt', 'The Grave Captive', 'Future in the Concerto'.. And of course all the covers are muscled, tanned men who'd probably beat your ass to Taiwan and back. Spread across the shelves occasionally are odd knicks and knacks. A small crystal skull, a D&D figurine, one of those dancing flower pots...

Grab a book of random. You grab one of the books without really paying attention to it. 'Future in Concerto'. Maybe it'll be good. Hopefully it'll be good. You take it up to the counter, setting it down. "Five dollars." You fish out your wallet, dropping down 7. He takes it, rings it up, gives you back your change minus tax. Barely even pocket change. Exiting from the store, you can go to another shop, get some food or go home.

Go home. You walk home, back into your apartment with your new book in hand. About an hour as passed. You set down to read a few pages when your phone dings.

Respond. Samantha again. What was it this time? 'Just wanted to say sorry again, I was really drunk after the party. Merry Christmas!' You text back the obligatory Merry Christmas, returning to the book. It's not bad, but it's nowhere near what your average person would consider good. Purple prosed to hell and back, dialogue is dry, and the people aren't even believable. Ding, goes the phone.

Eat. You eat the muffin. No longer hot, not even warm, but the flavor and moisture is still there. The cinnamon and apples explode flavor into your mouth, sending you straight to Flavor Town. Your mind is overtaken by falling leaves and Autumn Times. Pumpkins around every corner, Samantha hanging off your arm... It was really great. You'd have to ask Hanni for more later. Your computer is sitting in the corner, dejected.

Candle. You pick up a nearby candle, lighting it with the candle you keep with it. Banana Walnut Bread. It's more summery than autumny but the warm smells just fuel the autumn feels left behind by the muffin. Normally you didn't mind Winter, but god did it not help your recent moods. You relax for a few moments, just taking in the scent...

Phone. You check your phone, this time the message was from Remus. At this point it crossed your mind no had bothered to call. Guess it just isn't modern culture to call people. 'Merry Christmas friendo, hope it's a good one! Everything okay with you at the party last night? You seemed off.'

Merry Christmas. 'Merry Christmas!' You set your phone down after, just relaxing with the scent. Quickly you fall asleep. Leaving the candle unattended, you naughty. Luckily you awake in roughly an hour and nothing has burnt down. The only reason you woke up was your stomach is very angry.

Go out. You go out, something quick and cheap. MacDunalds. Just a double cheeseburger, fries, and a drink. It'll leave you a bit hungry but you are saving. The dining floor is mostly empty. The only other people there are teens much younger than you who either weren't there by choice or just hated existence entirely. But what's the difference there anyway?

Watch out the window. You watch out the window. Not many people out today as to be expected. A few couples around, but most of them don't appear happy. A guy walking his dog. Another gang of roaming Santas. Oh hey look it's Fat Jesus again. You lose yourself in watching people, slowly eating your meal and losing time.

It's about 9 now and you have to go back home. You have a good thirty minutes before you go to bed.

TV. You watch TV for the last 30 minutes. Charlie Brown's Christmas Special, actually. Good stuff. Numbs your mind to any invasive thoughts you may have.

Unfortunately you do have to go to bed so you can get up in time for work in the morning. This night, you have no dreams. You wake up to your alarm...

Shower. You go to the shower, doing a quick rinse and wash. Throw on deodorant, your uniform, and a quick bowl of cereal. Luckily the store is only about four blocks away, a twenty minute walk if you're careful. You make it just on time as you planned. Lane 4 today. Not to many others are here yet, but will be arriving momentarily.

Wait appropriately You wait by appropriately, helping customers as you should. Answer any questions you can answer. Everything is going smoothly, No hitches. Before you know it your shift is almost over. Nothing eventful happened. Part of you is glad after the last two days, but another part is craving. For action, for change. Drama. For emotion.

What are you doing the rest of the day. You try to think of what you'll do for the rest of the day. You could always try to talk to Lauren, maybe get her to hang out. Avoiding Remus seems to be your new pastime so may do that. Of course Hanni is probably working so you could stop by the CoD. The thoughts occupy your mind until the end of your shift. Now you must decide.

See what Lauren is up to. May as well. You text Lauren, 'What's up? Want to hang out?' Walking down the street slowly you find no response. No respite from the darkness that's creeping in the corners for every alley and the glare of every passerby. You'd been relatively fine until the party. What happened? Had she really affected you that much? Ding!

'Sorry, busy today. I can in two days.' That'll be Tuesday.. Well your options have appeared to severely limited themselves.

Hanni

You go to Coffee of Doom, slinking in and up to the counter. Hanni is working today, with another brown haired girl you don't recognize. "Hey Anon, how can I help you?"

"Whatever you want to make me." She smiles, nodding before setting to work getting the coffee. The metal music playing over the speakers drowns your thoughts out. The scent of coffee drags you back to the present, Hanni's smiling face keeps you anchored to it. It's a good thing to try to stay anchored, however you can. But do you recognize that depending on people to keep you anchored can end badly? Part of you doesn't know. The other part hopes you do.

Talk to her.

"How's your day been?" She nods, handing you the drink. You take it and take a sip, feeling the caffeine surging into your body. "Good. Hey, thanks for yesterday. That muffin was awesome." She smiles gratefully, moving to the side slightly so the brownhaired girl takes the register. You follow.

"Alright we can talk now."

See when she gets off. "Hey, this may be a bit weird when do you get off?"

She glances down at her watch again. "In about an hour." You nod and lean against the counter with a sigh. "You good?" You offer a nod and a smile, much better than you were at least. The coffee was helping as well.

"I'll wait until your off, get back to work!" You teasingly grin with the last remark and move to one of the small tables nearby. It's a cushioned chair. Green upholstered with a tiny floral design in it. It's comfortable as well.

Watch Hanni. You watch Hanni as she works. She seems happy but you notice occasionally a small flit of panic flies across her face. From what you aren't sure, but it never outwardly affects her. Maybe it's just in your imagination. She's an expert at most of the drinks she's asked to make, though. It takes her little to no time at all to throw it all together. It's really amazing to watch. Her eyes are so focused the entire time…

[angelinteractivestories]

Lauren and Anon - 2

"Hannelore?"

Lauren nods, rocking back and forth on her feet. "Friend of mine. She's coming to the party, I'll introduce you. She's really cute." She flashes you a smile with that last remark. What does that mean? The doors once again ding open. So much fucking dinging. She leads you off and to the door where she knocks.

"Coming!" A male voice calls from inside.

Joke around

"That your boyfriend?" She elbows you roughly, shaking her head with a smile. A guy opens the door wearing a large pair of brown, floppy bunny ears. "Oh hey." He smiles at Lauren but gives you a weird glance. "Come on in Lauren. Assuming this is your guest?" She nods and slides in past him. You go to step in but he blocks your path. "Nice to meet you man, I'm Adam."

"Anon." You shake hands. His grip is firm, nearly crushing your hand firm. He claps your back before letting you in and shutting the door behind you. The room is filled with people. A TV is set up with a WiiU menu displaying on it's screen. Mario Kart is currently in. Lauren is already mingling. It seems pretty 50/50 on Dude/Dudette as far as you can tell.

Mingle.

You mingle around, finding a few familiar faces but no one you outright know. You approach the drinks table thinking it'd be a good idea to have a small taste at the very least. Could get your mind running. Standing next to the table with drink in hand is your ex, taking a sip. Seeing you approach she offers a small smile and moves to intercept you.

On one hand, you both parted without bad blood. On the other, you still lie awake at night thinking of her. Of course Lauren was in the picture now, and that blonde girl from the coffee shop was pretty cute too but.. "Hey Anon!" She's standing in front of you now. Her long black hair seems just as silky as you remember..

Hey…

You pause, forcing out a small "Hey..." Her eyes glance up and down you. She's much more responsive than she was at the coffee shop. What changed?

"You're looking good. Everything been okay?" Offering a small nod you push past her to the drinks, grabbing a cup of punch. "Why did you ignore me at the coffee shop?"

"I had plans that I really needed to get to, sorry." You shrug apologetically. She doesn't seem to buy it. What was her problem anyway?

Mingle

Without another word you integrate yourself back into the party. Coincidentally you run into the blonde girl from the coffee shop. "Oh hey, I didn't know you'd be here!" She's smiling brightly. Currently she's sitting on the back of the couch, playing with Adam's bunny ears while he focuses on Mario Kart.

"Yeah, my friend Lauren invited me."

The girl's eyes brighten with a tingle, nearly jumping off the couch. "Really? You're Lauren's new friend?" You grin sheepishly and nod. "Great to meet you finally, she told me all about you today!"

Oh she did?

"Oh she did?" The girl realizes what she accidentally let slip, a blush of embarassment spreading over her face. "Don't worry, our little secret." She nods profusely, glancing at Adam before throwing her legs off the couch to stand up in front of you.

"Hannelore." She offers you her hand. You take it and give it a respectable shake but you notice she's trembling to the touch.

"Anon. You okay?" She nodded vigorously, taking her hand immediately once you let go.

"Seen Lauren around?" You shake your head, explaining you lost her when Adam invited tyou in. "Darn. Well I need a drink you want anything..?"

I'll come with.

"I'll come with you, if that's alright." A slow nod is all she gives you before prancing off to the drinks. You follow as close behind as you can. Reaching the drink table you are welcomed by the sight of Remus. He flashes you a grin, nodding to Hannelore. Perhaps the drink table was cursed to give you bad experiences in form to deter you from drinking.

"Hey Anon," his arm throws over your shoulder. "Didn't expect to see you here! Was this the plans you mentioned at lunch?"

"Haha, yeah. Funny seeing you here, man..."

Wait. You wait for Hannelore, humoring Remus as much as you comfortably can. His arm seems to refuse to move from your shoulders as he leans on you. "Having a good Christmas?" You grunt, hoping it would do. He nods. The shifting movement forces the scent of his cologne or whatever he's wearing into your nostrils. It's akin to a sickly bitter chocolate that's been left out in the sun for far too long. But it's oddly appealing. Lauren is talking to Adam out of the corner of your eye, controller in hand as they both play Mario Kart it seems.

Maybe it was a mistake coming here after all.

Keep waiting. You continue to wait. What was taking her so long anyway? A few moments more pass and she walks back up to you, sipping her own punch. Her eyes are flitting about the party as if she was nervous of something. "Thanks for waiting."

"No problem." She goes to walk off and you take this as an excuse to get away from Remus who whispers one thing in your ear before you walk off. "Samantha was talking about you."

She was what You pause and turn back to face him and his jackass smile. "She was what?" He nods and steps closer to you, his face inches from yours. His cologne is overpowering you again.

"Talking about you. Said something about being glad you aren't taking it as hard as she expected. And... Happy you aren't being as emo as you were in the relationship?" Your fists clenches slightly. "Or at least that's what I heard. Take it how you want." Go on your way. You offer no further reaction and go on your way. The words weigh on your mind. Would she be saying something like that? You like to think she wouldn't, that she'd be respectful of you as you have been her. But she was acting odd before. And what reason did Remus have to lie? It's not like you weren't indebted to him already.

In your ponderings you weren't paying attention to where you were going, bumping forcibly into Hannelore who was talking to someone. "Ah, hey!" Her drinks spills onto her shirt, practically soaking the black cloth.

Exclaim. You make your own exclamation in surprise that you bumped into her, and toward the fact you lost your balance. Your drink spills onto the back of her shirt as well, soaking her even further than she already had been. "Fuck!" She yells, trembling much more than she had been earlier. You panic slightly, unsure what to do.

"Can I help?"

"What?" Her eyes glance to you, showing no hostility but panic. "Not right now, justletme..." Her breathing is on the verge of hyperventilation before she catches it. Deeply in, deeply out. Deeply in... Deeply out...

Apologise "I'm so sorry Hannelore, I wasn't watching where I was going and I lost my balance. I'm sorry!" Adam is approaching with Lauren in tow. Adam is giving you a wary glance, coming to stand in front of Hannelore.

"You okay?" She nods slowly. "What happened?" Adam's eyes turn to stare at you with the question. Lauren is comfortingly rubbing Hannelore's shoulders soothingly.

"I lost where I was going, bumped into her and we spilled our drinks." Adam nods understandably and sighs. You feel two gazes on you from opposite sides of the room but right now you're too focused on the incident.

Offer shirt. "Look, I live like literally a floor down. And I don't want you getting sick, I feel bad enough as is, why don't you take my shirt and I'll go get another one for myself?" She's still doing her deep breathing but gives a small nod. Adam seems wary but doesn't say anything to interrupt.

"I live across from you, right?" You nod. "I'll go with you, and throw this shirt in my apartment. It'll be fine... It'll be fine." The first one seems aimed at herself from the tone, but the second sounded as if it was going outwardly. To Adam? Lauren? You turn to go toward the door, letting you scan the room for the gazes boring into you. Remus and... Samantha.

Remus Walking to the door you glare at Remus who's gaze meets yours. He's still smiling that same smile. Why was he always so smug? Hannelore follows you out, shutting the door behind you. In silence you both enter the elevator. Down a floor, outside of both of your doors. You take the shirt off and offer it to her. It crosses your mind that she could just get her own shirt at this point. She goes to grab it...

Does it matter. In the grand scheme, it really doesn't matter. She thanks you and turns to her own apartment door as you enter yours to grab your own shirt. To your dresser you pull one off the top to show an old shirt of Samantha's. She must have missed it when she was taking the stuff she left at your apartment. Now is a good time to give it back. But did you really want to bother with her? You could always...

Fuck it, if she wants it she can get it herself. You put on your shirt, a deep blue with a DBZ logo on the front. Really you wanted to at least try to have a good Christmas Eve, so you ignore the thought. Remus was up to stupid shit, she was acting like a bitch. Better to just involve yourself with everyone else. Hannelore probably hates you. Lauren is.. Well, you don't know. Adam seems wary but he does also feel friendly.

Walking out you find Hannelore standing at the elevator. The shirt is draped around her. It was far too big. "Thanks for that, and sorry if I was acting weird."

It was my fault. "It was my fault, I should've watched where I went." A small smile crosses her face as you both step into the elevator. You press the button and wait. The doors ding open.

Lauren is standing there, surprised. "Oh, I was coming to check on you two!" You chuckle. "Everything okay between you two?" A glance is shared between you and you both nod. "Good! Don't want my friends to have sourpatch between them."

Hannelore rolls her eyes and steps out of the elevator, laughing. "He's too sweet of a guy for me to be sour toward him." Lauren smiles at Hannelore who's gone back to the party, leaving you two alone.

What's up? "What's up?" You notice she's wearing the necklace. She shakes her head, staring down at her feet. Right.

"Come on, you can't invite me to a party and then cold shoulder me." Silence. She was still staring down. You notice her hair had slight curls on the ends instead of being entirely straight tonight.

"Just worried about Hannelore. She has a bit of a problem with contact. Especially with people she isn't familiar with. I thought wearing someone else's shirt would.." She shrugs.

What do you mean. "Kinda like," she waves her hands openly about. "Extreme germaphobia." You had heard of germaphobes but extreme? Does that mean panic attacks just from the thought, or? Would probably do well to keep that in mind. "But if she's fine with it, it doesn't matter. Let's go!" She takes your hand and leads you back to the party. Inside people are going on as if nothing had happened. You see Hannelore playing Mario Kart now, Adam and Samantha talking off to the side. And Remus... is nowhere to be seen.

TALK to Lauren "Enjoying the party so far?" You lean back against the wall as Lauren turns to face you.

"Yeah, you?"

"Better than being alone."

She nods and smiles in agreement. "I didn't realize your friend would be here." Friend? Oh, Remus.

"Me either. I see you're wearing the necklace." Her hand instinctively touched to the jewelry. "I'm glad you like it." A small smile and blush crossed her face again.

Tease. You gently poke her cheek, "You blush too much." Her hand swats at your finger, a larger blush coming across her face. "It makes you so easy to read." The blush deepens.

"Oh yeah? How does it make me easy to read?" She's pouting again, crossing her arms over her chest.

"You're embarrassed and slightly upset, but still find this oddly fun. Or would that be exhilarating?" She grumbles her response, turning away from you now. "And now you're facing away to verify my words but not wanting to actually admit it."

Rub. You reach up and rub her shoulders. She glances over her shoulders at you, raising an eyebrow. You raise one back in response. She chuckles and turns her head back to the party. You scan over it. Everyone seems so happy. Admittedly you're happy too, but it feels wrong. Dead, almost. Shallow would be a proper term for it. A small sigh escapes your lips. "You okay?"

Truth. "Just feeling eh." It was technically the truth. She nodded. You imagine in her mind that it probably just means you're out of your waters here. Which is true but that's not really the factor. And here comes Samantha.

"Hi Lauren! Anon." She seems so cold. She passes by you both, leaving a chill wind in her wake. You have half a mind to chew her out. How dare she ruin something that should be joyous for you.

Lean. You lay your chin down on the top of her gently, leaning against her. She looks up at you. You smile down at her. You're surprised she's okay with this much contact. You just met yesterday. ...Did she feel obliged because of the necklace?

Adam claps his hands together, gathering everyone's attention. "Two minutes everyone! Let's get ready!"

"Ready for what?" You cock your head to the side.

"Countdown and celebration of Christmas Day," explains Lauren.

Stay silent. The time passes quickly and everyone enters their countdown. Isn't this supposed to be for New Years day?

You join in, trying your best to not to deafen Lauren who is chanting along. As it reaches one you find your arms wrapping around her, almost instinctively, memories of Samantha on Christmas Eve entering your mind. You were happy back then at least. Everyone yells Merry Christmas to each other, but you can't muster it. A gentle whisper of Merry Christmas into her ear is all you manage as even the shallow happiness dies away. Not alone but lonely.

Apathy. The apathy takes its place where everything else should be. You feel her gently pull away from you, turning to face you. "And a Merry Christmas to you too." Her face is smiling so brightly. You try to mimic the smile as best you can. "I really can't thank you enough for the necklace. And me, not having a gift for you..." Before you can respond Hannelore is at you both, her arms wrapping around your necks.

"Merry Christmas," she sings. You both smile, wishing her your own well wishes. "Why are you two over here all alone? Sharing a private moment?" Lauren blushes again. You shrug. Hannelore seems to have picked up on how you're holding her as well. "Should I leave you two alone? There is mistletoe, you know." Mmm… "Mmm..." Not exactly a grunt, but not a full hum. Samantha shakes her head at Hannelore who shrugs. They both share a glance to you, then around the party before talking about some nonsense. Some guy at the cafe earlier that day is all you gather.

You drift from the conversation and let your eyes wander around the party until they land on Samantha who is still talking to Adam. She's all over him at this point. Boy if only you could feel anything right now that may actually rile you up. Hannelore tugs at your shirt to get your attention. "Thirsty?"

Yeah. "Yeah, actually." You weren't thirsty. Well not fully. You just thought it'd be good to get some alcohol in you. Does the punch even have alcohol? Would explain some things. Not a lot, but some. Only one way to find out anyway!

Hannelore is off to get the drinks, leaving you two alone. Or it would if Remus hadn't appeared with his ungodly chocolate cologne. Was it getting stronger? "Hey lovebirds." Lauren gives a small wave.

Remus. “Remus." You can't help but hold some of the contempt from before in your tone. It seems to actually offend him this time as his gaze zeroes in on your eyes. He raises an eyebrow as if to suggest he isn't happy with you. Oh well. Hannelore is back with your drink which you happily down. The four of you are now just standing in the corner. Silently. As a party goes on around you. Were you really killing the mood that bad?

"How've things been at Coffee of Doom?" Remus is talking to Hannelore now who makes a happy noise. Must be going well. Samantha is listening intently. You're drifting away again. "That's great. Would hate for y'all to have a rough spot, you get my coffee just right!"

Maybe it's time to leave. “I think I'm gonna leave guys." You pull away further from Lauren who seems forlorn at the loss of contact. Hannelore glances down at a watch on her wrist, nodding.

"I should too." You both start toward the door before Lauren grabs your hand. She stands up to her tiptoes, leaning into your ear to whisper you should text her when your back to your apartment. You nod and exit the room with Hannelore. "You're lucky."

How so. "How so?" She smiles knowingly, walking backwards to face you while you approach the elevator.

"Lauren. She's too pure for this world, and she's taken a liking to you." You nod. "I'm really jealous, actually. It took forever for me to work up the nerve to even talk to her!" You smile at the thought. She seemed so approachable...

Why? "Why?" She hits the button for your floor, shrugging her shoulders widely.

"It just did. I'm not good at making friends, so talking to people is hard for me. And I only saw her like twice a week at work so it's not like we knew each other extensively." She pauses for a moment, sighing. "And y'know, someone as pretty as her is really intimidating to talk to you." You could get behind that. That's how you felt toward Samantha in highschool.

Offhand comment.

"I would imagine it'd be easy for someone as pretty as you to talk to someone as pretty as her." You notice her eyes shift toward you in a small glance. She was trying to be discreet. The elevator doors ding open. You're off for your door and she is for her's.

"Oh, do you want your shirt back?"

Looks better on you "Looks better on you anyway." You offer her a smile before you shut the door, exhaling once you were alone. Your phone dings. You just need a moment. Checking your phone it's a text from Remus.

Remus. 'Wanted to check on you. Seemed a bit off.' What the fuck did he know? You send a reply about being entirely fine. You have to restrain yourself from making a rude remark. Maybe he was just worried about you. Or maybe he just wanted to make sure you wouldn't off yourself so he could get his money. In some form that is caring about you though. You sigh. Ding! An unknown number?

Check message You check the message. Some spam about penis enhancement messages. Do companies even spam text messages? You throw the phone down onto the couch and sit down, head in hands. What was wrong with you!?

Go to bed. You plug your phone in and like the night before you drag yourself into bed. Tonight your dreams are haunted by... Germs. Giant germs. They want to eat you. Eat you whole. Is that Remus riding a germ? Many of the germs have Samantha's face.

You wake up in a small sweat.

Phone You check your phone. One message from Lauren. 'Hey, never got a text. Guess you were so tuckered out you went to sleep! That's fine, Merry Christmas again. Thank you so, so much!' You can't help but smile. Last night's funk is gone and today is Christmas. Your messages still have one notification. A text Shower You go to the shower. Better to do something productive than let her butt back into your life. Tomorrow you'd be back to work at the grocery store. Would severely limit your time in the day again, but would be bringing in the income to pay off the debt. As the hot water washes over you you think back to the night you met Lauren. Literally just two days ago. You can't help but wonder how different things would be if you had just kept walking.

Ponder Hannelore Your thoughts are drawn back to Hanni, Was she actually a germaphobe, or is that just what Lauren assumed? Or is that what she told Lauren because she couldn't muster the courage to tell her the truth. And she worked at Coffee of Doom so nearly every girl that came in wore Lauren's style of clothing. How did she handle her job? Is she a lesbian, or is she bi? Maybe she's ace. What if she's in on Sata--Remus's plans... Out of the shower. You hop out of the shower, grabbing your phone to quickly change Remus's contact to 'R. Satan'. A poor joke but a funny one nonetheless. It was really odd how he needed your signature. What was that all about? Out of the bathroom and into the kitchen you get a bowl of cereal. You never turned the TV off and Anthony Bourdain's sexy face is on it...

Lauren

You text Lauren as you eat. 'Yeah, sorry! Merry Christmas to you too, hope you have a good day.' She responds almost immediately. A selfie of her in a Santa hat.

'You too!' You shake your head, turning your focus fully to the bowl of cereal and it's colorful sugary goodness.

You sit down and lose yourself to the Bourdain coma. At least two hours have passed when you're dragged out of it by knocking at your door. Checking through the peephole you see Hanni standing outside, glancing down at your watch. She has a cup and a small food box in her hand.

Answer it. You open it. She's still wearing your shirt actually. "Merry Christmas!" She offers both the cup and box to you. "I didn't have any coffee at home so I used employee privlege to go down to Doom. I thought you may appreciate this." The coffee smells of hazelnuts, the box is warm and smells like apples. "Hazelnut roast and an apple muffin."

Want to come in "Oh wow, thanks. Do you want to come in..?" She nods and steps inside, looking around. Luckily you had kept everything remotely clean for the last few days. "Sorry, you caught me in the middle of a Bourdain coma."

"No Reservations? No way, I love that show! Have you read any of his books? Or his blog?" You shake your head. Only ever watched his show. "Oh you should. He's an excellent writer." She sits down on the couch next to you. You sip the coffee, letting its warmth wash over you. Her hairs is much more messy. Did she not brush it?

Ask "How is his writing?" Her face lights up with such excitement.

"If you think he's funny on the show you don't know the half of it! He's so witty, and his descriptions are fantastic. It's almost like you're there most of the time." She goes on and on about it for what feels like ever. You're just enthralled with her voice. She was so energetic and passionate about this. Even if it may not be she truly believed his stuff was great and it showed. Her green eyes were twinkling the entire time she talked. Eventually, she slowed to a crawl. "Oh I'm sorry I didn't let you talk.." No problem "No problem! You were so excited I didn't want to interrupt." She smiles sheepishly, turning her attention to the TV. You eye her up for another minute before sipping the coffee again. The muffin is left untouched on the table. You're both content in each other's company watching Bourdain. For now.

[angelinteractivestories]

Lauren and Anon 1

It's been nearly a week since you and your girlfriend broke up. You had noticed things had changed between you both but you clung anyways. She was the one who brought it up. She said she just didn't love you anymore. You couldn't help but agree. It was a mutual agreement to split before you both were hurt further. It was December 23rd now. And of course you couldn't go back home for the holidays, dropping in unannounced wouldn't end well.

Walking down the street you noticed it had begun to snow lightly. For some reason you stopped. Across the street stood a girl, staring into a jewelry shop window. The streets were mostly dead aside from stragglers like you both and the cars whizzing by. She was wearing an extremely light purple coat. There was no way it kept the cold out. What was she looking at anyway?

You choose to stand next to her.

You come to stand next to her, following her eyes to the center piece of the window. A dazzling jeweled necklace on a gold chain. She doesn't seem to really pay attention to you, still locked onto the necklace. Her hand extends a little to gently touch the window as if she was reaching out for the necklace. She must really want it.

I ask if she likes it.

"Like it?" Her brown eyes glance to you before she makes a small nod, drawing her hand back to herself.

"It looks like a necklace my grandmother used to have." You nod appreciatively, taking in the singsong tone she spoke in. It was a dazzling necklace, that was for sure. Or possibly that was just the effect of the Christmas lights in the window reflecting off the jewels. She's back to being silent but you notice her occasionally glancing at you. Seems nervous.

Ask her why she doesn't buy it.

"Why don't you buy it?" She shrugs forlornly, still staring longingly at it.

"Too expensive. I can barely afford my apartment." A sigh escaped her lips, her hands slowly pushing into the pockets of her jacket. It was a high end shop that was for sure. But could it really be that much? Doesn't hurt to ask. But does it really matter?

Go inside and inquire about it.

You slide past her and enter the building. A small man is at the back counter glancing at his watch frequently. You approach which causes him to smile and enter his average spiel, "Hello sir! How may I help you? What are you looking for? Nice piece of jewelry for some lucky lady for Christmas? Could I recomm--"

"The necklace in the window. How much is it?" Your terse tone causes a small frown across his face. He glances over your shoulder to the window. A deep inhale, a small sigh.

"You too? It's probably out of your price range."

"That's not what I asked."

"$2475."

Pricey, isn't it?

"Pricey, isn't it?" The clerk nods slowly.

"It is, but what can you do? I don't decide the prices unfortunately." That's understandable. Unless it's family owned but even then he seems to hate his job so must not be. It was an awful lot for a necklace. You look around the shop, trying to see if there was anything similar at all.

Any way you can help me out?

You sigh, shaking your head. "Anyway you can help me out?" He cocks an eyebrow. "There's this girl outside, she really wants it. But she can't afford it." The clerk glances over your shoulder to the window again. He nods sagely as if he knows her.

"She's been asking about for the entire month. I feel a bit bad for her. She told me the entire story." He pauses, glancing around with a sigh. "How much can you actually put down for it?"

Pay as much but cut back on food.

"I can drop $1800 on it." The clerk bites his lip, slowly cursing under his breath as he exits from behind the counter.

"Leave me your phone number and your signature. I'll pay the rest, but consider it a personal loan." Was this really happening? Was he actually going to cover the rest for you? Just on your word you'd pay it back? He was a hell of a lot more trusting than you were that's for sure.

I'll be sure to pay it back.

"I'll be sure to pay it back!" He slowly extracts it from its place in the window, coming back with it. He gently sets it down on the counter, ringing up the purchase as a two part payment for you.

"You better." As you fumble for your debt card he takes the necklace and gently places it in a box for you, snapping it shut. "Give it to her in front of the window. She looks like she's about to cry. I want to see her reaction." He rings you up, giving you the box.

Immediately give it to her.

You take your debt card back and scribble down your name and number, stepping outside to her. She's already walking away. "Ma'am!" You do a jogging lunge to grab her shoulder. She whirls around ready to slap you before she sees you holding the box. A sheepish smile spreads across your face as you offer it out to her. "I imagine you know what's in it, but humor me and open it." She slowly reaches forward to take the box but hesitates.

"Are you sure?"

Actually on second thought!(Jokingly)

"Actually on second thought!" You go to pull the box back, resulting a gasp and panicked expression flitting across her face. "For real though, go ahead." You press the box into her hand. Slowly, as if dreading what she would see inside it, it was opened.

"I.. I don't know what to say." Her free hand has gone to her mouth to hide it, a small tear or two tracing down her cheeks.

Maybe catch a meal with me?

"How about saying yes to getting a meal?" She nods with a smile, wiping away the tears.

"I would love to."

"Awesome! Is a place MacDunalds okay with you? Pockets are a bit light now so.." She nods and chuckles. You flourish for her to start walking beside you. She goes to move while you pause to throw a thumbs up to the smiling clerk inside who waves to you.

Carl Sr's.

You lead her off about three blocks away to Carl Sr's. The long journey lets you finally take her in fully. Of course there's the jacket and eyes. She's wearing black denim jeans, and sneakers that seemed to have some obscure design. And her light brown hair is just peeking a few centimeters out of her purple beanie. The color oddly matched her jacket. Part of you felt guilty. You weren't sure why, but it did.

She orders the new Hawaiian beefsandwich. What about you?

Same.

You order the same. Hopefully it's good! Taking a seat at one of the many, many open tables in the building she opens the box again to admire the necklace. "I really can't thank you enough..." She looks up to you with such a bright smile. You can't help but be reminded of when your ex smiled like that the first time at you. How your heart felt like it nearly stopped.

No. You scold yourself in your head for thinking of her. Focus on the now, on there here. Focus on Her. ...Who was her, anyway?

Introduce yourself.

"I never introduced myself! I'm Anon, nice to meet you Miss..?"

"Lauren. Lauren K."

"Just K?"

"Well I can't tell you my full name! What if you're a creepy stalker?" Her lips curl into a playful smile with a small giggle. "No, I just want to see you guess."

Before you can the food is laid down in front of you. At least it smells delicious. "So, Mr. Anon. Why did you buy it for me?"

Do you really?

“Do you really want to know?" She nods. You take a bite out of your burger, slowly chewing it to mull over your options. You could be truthful. You could lie. Or... "It's a secret. Maybe I'll tell you later."

"No fair, how can I properly thank you if you won't tell me?" You shrug and grin before taking another bite out of your burger. She takes a bite out of her own, pouting. It's adorable. Your phone dings in your pocket.

Check your phone.

You pull your phone out to check it. An unknown number has texted you. 'Jewelry clerk here. Put me whatever you want in your phone, this is my number so you know when it's me checking in.' You nod setting it down on the table. She's slowly nibbling at her burger. You wonder if this is how people used to date before things like Tinder were a thing. "So, uh." You raise an eyebrow when she speaks. "Sorry I don't know what to say. Just still a bit shocked by it all..."

Get used to it.

“Get used to it." She seems a bit taken aback.

"What's that supposed to mean?" You shrug with a smile, leaning into the table a tiny bit.

"I mean what I said. Random gifts are kind of my thing." Her eyes glance down to the table with a tiny blush tinging her cheeks. "Want anything else to eat? Milkshake, or?"

She shakes her head. You both have just about finished. "No, you've already done too much!"

Walk her home.

"Well it's getting on, so how about I walk you home?" She perks up at the mention, glancing at her own phone for the time.

"Oh no, I'll be fine on my own!"

"I insist, come on. Safety in numbers." She nods slightly with a sigh and stands. You take her trash and throw it away, offering her cup back to her. She thanks you and gets a refill before meeting you at the door.

"I'll be honest with you. I want you to drop me off a block or two away from my place. Precautions and all..." She seems a bit more nervous but still accepting of your presence.

You sure?

"You sure?" She nods vigorously, the small blush still tinging her cheeks. You guess it makes sense. She still doesn't know you properly. And with that you both are walking off down the street. The mood is growing tense.

Make a joke,

You recite in your mind, 'Don't make a dead baby joke, don't make a dead baby joke, don't make a dead baby joke' before opening your mouth and: "What do you call a group of disorganized kittens?"

"Wha? What?"

"A cat-astrophe." She starts laughing nearly uncontrollably. Well, it seems she liked it. Honestly you thought she'd cringe at it.

Let her recover.

You pause to let her recover. Slowly the laughter comes to a rolling end. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry." She wipes at her eyes. "That was just... So bad." A small smile passes your lips.

"Glad you thought so, at least it got a laugh out of you!" She nods and smiles. The tension seems to have melted from that. "You seem like a nice girl, Lauren."

"Thanks. You seem like a real gentleman. ... That's rare nowadays, huh?" You shrug. In all honesty you just didn't want to make a statement that may rub her the wrong way. Not that you'd be unhappy rubbing her anyway. She comes to a slow stop. "Here we are..."

Guess I'll catch you around.

“I guess I'll catch you around." She nods and goes to walk away, hesitating for a moment before stepping down the street. Her steps seem small and deliberate as you watch. Inch by inch she's slipping out of your grasp and into the night. No way to contact her, probably never see her again in the city. And tomorrow was Christmas Eve. You'd be alone. You god damn fool.

Wait.

You wait. And wait. Why is she walking so slowly? Why are you waiting? You could run after her. You could get her number. What if she forgets? What if...

Silence numbs your mind. You hadn't noticed it before but in this small street, with the snow falling lazily around you, everything was quiet. Was that Gaia herself telling you that you done fucked up? Lauren was at the corner now. Acting as if she was to round it. She would soon be gone. What were you waiting for!? What's holding you back? Your body isn't responding.

She glances over her shoulder. Her expression seems so cold. Did you do something wrong? She steps and turns to face you. "You forgot to ask my number, you idiot!" She seems... Annoyed. A small smile spreads across your face and you shrug, trying to play it cool.

"Sorry, I was just..."

Enraptured by beauty.

Ever the Casanova as they say, "I was just so enraptured by your beauty." The blush from before deepens and spreads across her face. You can't help but smile like a jackass. Maybe the Gods were merciful afterall

"It's..." She shouts out her number and you quickly enter it into your phone. And with that she's gone. Leaving you alone in that dimly lit street, a phone blinking at you. You should probably get home. It's going to be Christmas Eve after all.. And what a gift life has given you.

Text her.

You text her. A small hello, and a wink. She doesn't respond. Probably isn't home yet. You turn and walk off in your own direction to your apartment.

Entering the door, it doesn't seem as dark as you left it. The lights were still off but things were different. Your phone dings. 'Idiot.' It dings again, the clerk this time. 'What happened?' Why did he care? You find yourself sitting on the edge of your bed. Phone still in hand.

Go to sleep.

You plug your phone in and lay down. The bed is cold. Your mind wanders back to when it was warm. When she was in your arms, when you were happy again, when...

Well, enough dwelling on that. Sure you weren't with anyone, but you made a new friend. And you're pretty sure it would lead to more. Maybe. Hopefully. Two new friends if LoanBoy counts.

You dream of waterfalls, and snowfalls. A lot of falling today, actually. But that is neither here nor there. That morning you wake up. Your phone doesn't have any notifications. Odd that your friends on skype didn't at least message you. Probably giving you space. Or playing Minecraft without you. Dirty bastards.

Get coffee.

You get up, get a shower. Throw on some clothes to lounge around before you start brewing your coffee. Aaaand you're out. God damn it, you hadn't made a grocery run for the week yet.

Maybe some coffee shops are open? There is that one down the street. What's it called? Coffee of Doom, you think. Should probably check it out. On your way out the door you remember to grab your wallet. Obviously you don't want to carry all money on you. That's it. You just aren't making arbitrary tasks for yourself.

Leave a tip, we're already short.

You take $10 and leave the rest. Living the high life sure did hurt the wallet. Walking into the street the city is once again bustling. People are walking by, plain shoving you out of the way, and you're just trying to make your way to a coffee shop. Try not to rip someone's head off...

Walking in, Metal music is playing over the speakers. Not loud enough to drown out your voice, but enough to occupy your thoughts. A blonde girl is at the counter, fidgetting around every so often. Seems she dipped into the coffee too much. You approach, "How may I help you?"

What do you recommend.

"What do you recommend?"

"Emospresso is good. Or you could order the 'Tip us or we kill again.' It's a secret special, you get what we want to make. Boss's joke." She smiles brightly. ...Inventive names.

Kill.

"I'll tip you if you really promise not to kill again."

"Oh geez Mister," she starts to make a drink for you. "I dunno. What about our ritual sacrifice?"

"Skip it for the month." You drop all $10 onto the counter, "Keep the change as a tip."

She hands you the drink, a large with some "special workings" of unmarked bottles. "You sure? That's nearly $6 in tips."

"Positive." You turn to leave and the door tingles open. Your ex is walking in, humming to herself, eyes closed. Right... She's the one who introduced you to this shop.

Ignore her, just leave.

You walk past her, sipping your coffee. "Oh, hey Anon.." Her voice is dull. She seems off. There is a smile on her face but she's not entirely there. You nod and give the best smile you can. Your phone dings in your pocket. "How have you been?"

Mutter a response and leave.

You mutter a good, don't even bother to ask how she's been, and slip out of the cafe. The street is going strong. Your phone dings since you have set to remind you of texts every few seconds until you read it. Should probably change that. There's a park nearby. And there's your apartment.

Check the phone.

You stop in the middle of the busy street, impeding everyone's progress because you're a douchenugget, to check your phone. Originally you thought it was two dings for one text but it is two. Lauren asking if you had any plans, and the clerk asking the same. ...Why was he messaging you so much?

Clerk.

You text the Clerk back that you have no plans. He responds almost immediately. "Why don't we hang out. Get lunch or dinner or something and I consider it part of the debt paid off." That was an option, yeah. But there was a Lauren. Wasn't it supposed to be seen as desperate to be responding that quickly?

Both.

You text him sure, and text Lauren that yes you do have plans with a friend. However you would be entirely open to the idea of her coming along. Lunch/Dinner. Maybe both depending how things went. Could be a fun day. Or a horrible one. Who knows, maybe the Clerk is actually Satan and you accidentally signed your god damn soul away. ...What did they put in that coffee?

Clerk responds, text him when and where. Lauren says she'd be happy to do lunch but has a party to go tonight.

Do lunch with clerk.

You tell the Clerk you'd be fine with lunch, and ask if he minds if Lauren comes along. He doesn't at all. Tell them both you'll meet them at the park around 11:30AM. That leaves you about an hour to keep drinking this "coffee".

People watch.

You take up stock on the park benches and decide to people watch. It's a fun hobby, don't knock it. First you see a girl dressed as a fairy, sprinkling dust everywhere, singing some weird song. ...Was the coffee spiked?

A couple fighting. You remember when you had fights like that. Never in public of course you both were too decent for that. Wonder why that one started?

A roaming gang of santas with baseball bats.

Another roaming gang of santas with sacks of coal. One of them tossed a hunk at you. It's the coal chocolate candy so you let it slide.

WAS THAT JESUS? Oh no, he's fat, can't be.

11:25 and the clerk sits down next to you. "Howdy, friend." He isn't in his uniform now and he's wearing glasses. Their slim but sharp. His black hair is kept in a deliberate shaggy mess, his green eyes twinkling as he smiles at you. Bit creepy... And his attire is formal to a fault. Dress shirt, black pants that appeared to be tailored.

What's up with the clothes.

"Bit of a fancy outfit for a lunch, huh?"

"I like to present myself well." She shrugged and flashed you a smile glancing down at his watch. Seems expensive. Maybe the store was family owned afterall. "Where is she?"

"I'm sure she'll be along soon."

Coal.

You offer him the piece of coal. "Merry Christmas." He takes it and munches down on it, foil and all. "That's uh..."

"Hm?" He spits out the foil that's been perfectly molded into a ball.

"Nothing.."

"Hi Anon! Oh, hello, do I.."

"I was the clerk at the jewelry store." She smiles brightly and nods.

"I remember now! I didn't know you two were friends."

"Best." He grins and elbows you. You nod so it doesn't raise any suspicions. "So where we going?".

Cowboy Hat.

"How about Cowboy?"

"Oh shit, I love that place!" The clerk seems excited.

"Really? It's disgusting!" Bad choice... "But if you two want to, I'll stomach some fries." You lead the way with Lauren coming to stroll next to you. The Clerk walks slightly behind you both and you can feel his gaze staying on you. Like its burning holes through you.

Talk to Lauren.

You want to talk to Lauren. But what do you say? "Sleep well last night?"

"Yeah, you?" You nod. She smiles. Bit of an odd question but it worked.

"Any, uh.. Hobbies."

"I like to game. I paint a little. Sketch too. I write. Not much, but I do. You?"

Gamer.

“Really? I game too. What do you play?"

"Just depends how I'm feeling. Been playing that new Zelda game alot, I like to play Dota 2, Mario Maker is fun... Oh did you hear about that new Mega-Maker game? It's fanmade but it's really good!"

"I have, I haven't tried it yet though. I will later, thanks for recommending it to me." The clerk steps forward, coming to stroll to your other side.

"Who do you play in Dota?"

"Wha? Uhm. I like to play CM, Omni, Venge..."

"So you're a support player?"

"I guess."

Let them speak.

You're out of your League here. It's like they're speaking a foreign language. It is cute to see how determined she how into it she is. Maybe you should learn for her?

"Have you ever actually played Carry?" The clerk seems to be trying to find some price in the conversation but she's holding her own.

"Yeah. I like Faceless, Juggernaut, Luna. On drunk nights I like to play CarryMaiden."

"You have to be kidding me."

"I'm not!" She grins madly, he's shaking his head. What the fuck is going on? "No wards. Straight into midas, farm mid until fighting stage. Glimmer into Oct."

Oh look here we are.

"Here we are!" You end the conversation before it gets any further. Lauren seemed to be getting a bit heated and the clerk was delighting in it too much. "You go on and order Lauren. We need to talk." She shakes her head.

"No, I'll wait." You groan inwardly. Of course. You'll have to confront him first.

"Guests first," you smile at clerk and flourish your arm toward the counter. He takes the gesture in his own mock bow before stepping up to order. Lauren is eyeing him up as you can see from the corner of your eye.

French.

You order a French Dip, Lauren orders a side of fries only. Just as she said. "You sure you don't want anything else? I don't want you going hungry on me." She nods.

"I'll be fine. I'll share your drink," her tone is almost singsong. Is that flirting? The clerk has already gotten a table for you both. You get green tea to drink.

You arrive at the table and the clerk looks you both over and asks, seemingly out of the blue, "You both look like readers so what's your favorite book."

Lauren seems to be pondering. How about you?

Mystery Card.

"I enjoy a bit of all kinds of literature. Been reading ZOMBIE POWDER by Tite Kubo lately. But in actual novels I recently finished the Johannes Cabal series. What about you?" The clerk seems surrpised by the response and takes a minute to respond, regaining himself from the fluster.

"Uh," he begins. "Tite Kubo? Mangaka of Bleach?" You nod. "I'll have to look into Zombie Powder. As for Johannes Cabal, I haven't read it but I have heard nothing but good things of it."

Lauren claps her hands, "I haven't finished it but I've been really enjoying City Stained Red by Sam Sykes!" The clerk rolls his eyes and sits down with his food. What was that supposed to mean? Even Lauren seems visibly annoyed by the response problem?"

"Not at all," his tone is dull as if he's bored.

Offer a drink to Lauren.

You offer her a drink, rolling your eyes as if to say ignore him. She takes it and sips. A boy sets your food down. Laying in front of you is the cup and sandwich. "You can have some if you want?" You offer the sandwich to Lauren. She shakes her head but thanks you. The clerk is lazily eating his roastbeef sandwich, staring out the window. Maybe inviting her was a mistake...

Clerk.

"So what games do you play, aside from Dota?" You offer the best smile you can. He returns it. His eyes meeting your gaze with such intensity you have to force yourself not to look away.

"I enjoy most MOBA. Singleplayer I've been playing VA11-HALLA, Beglitched, and Binding of Isaac."

Binding of Isaac. That's the one game you recognize so you latch onto it. "Oo, BoI? Really? What's been your best run lately? I got a really nice Succubus+Jacob's ladder the other day!" Lauren seems to be intently listening so luckily she likes the game as well.

Lunch has rolled to an end. Clerk is waiting at the door, Lauren is standing next to you at the trash. "Hey about the party I'm going to."

Can I come.

"Can I come? I don't have any plans tonight." She ponders for a moment but slowly nods her head.

"Yeah, they told me to bring a guest anyway. You can dress casually, it's just my friends." You nod and turn to face the Clerk who's still waiting at the door. "I have to go, so I'll just text you where it is later okay?"

"Yeah. I'll see you then. Bye!" She waves back to you as she flits out the door, leaving you and the clerk having a small showdown across the room. He's smiling, you're stoic. You approach.

Necklace.

"Hey, thanks so much for helping me out with the necklace man." You offer out your hand to shake. Maybe a mutual show of respect will help stop whatever he was trying to do. He grips your hand, tightly, and gives you a firm shake. Your eyes are still meeting with that same intense gaze.

"Least I could do Anon." You both smile, hands still clasped together.

Can I have your name?

"Hey, I never caught your name." He acts surprised. A hand goes to his mouth in the, what you believe, faux-surprise.

"Didn't you? Well I'm Remus. Glad to make your acquaintance." What a name. Fits him perfectly. You nod and move toward the door, muttering something about needing to go home. He nods understandably and lets your hand go. As you walk down the street you can feel his faze still boring holes into you. What have you done?

Home to relax we've had a big day.

You slowly make your way home and into your apartment building. You get stuck in the elevator with a notoriously crazy old dude. You've been told if he doesn't like you he smacks your shin with his cane. He isn't doing anything to you though.

Talk.

"Hello sir, I don't think we've met. Do you live here?" It sounds like a yes between his grumblings. "What a coincidence, I do too. What floor?" Was that a three? "I'm on Four. Darn, I was hoping we were neigbors."

"Don't want to be neighbors with some nosy brat."

"What was that sir? I couldn't hear you." The doors ding open at three. He gives you a good whap on your shin and shuffles out before you can do anything. The elevators deposits you at your floor afterward.

Inside your apartment. It's a mess.

TV.

You flick on the TV and find some senseless program to watch. Better than nothing to kill the time. In actuality, you find Anthony Bourdain's No Reservation. You become entirely enthralled in the show. Oh god it's a marathon. Time slips away from you. The only thing that drags you out of your sexy, sexy Bourdain coma is your phone incessantly ringing from texts. It's Lauren. "The party is at Champa Apartments, Floor 5, Room 22." Champa Apartments? Oh shit that's your building. "Be there at 7." It's 6 right now.

Gussy.

You thrown on a better shirt, a simple V-neck grey. Apply another layer of deodorant and body spray. Make sure no stains on your jeans. Give yourself a good shave. Style out your hair into a messy but carefully caring look. By the time your done it's 6:35.

Bourdain.

You go back to Bourdain. Oh fuck he's in your town. You're almost tempted to go to the restaurants he's at right now. Wait no you have a party. Right. Keep note of those restaurants though. They're probably bomb. The episode ends at 7 and you make your way out of your apartment. Just as you shut your door the one across the way opens. It's the blonde girl from Coffee of Doom. "Oh hi there!" She flashes you a smile, making to the elevator. You follow. She's closer to the button. "What floor?"

Ground.

"Mind if we go to 5th first?" You nod and she punches the button. Literally. The elevator slowly rolls up to the fifth floor and she steps off, pressing the ground button before she does. "Bye!" You give a small wave as the doors shut. Wait.... Damn it. The doors ding open to have Lauren facing you.

"Oh! Hey there. What are you...?"

"I uh.."

I live here.

"I live here." You state it very plainly. Eyes wide. Shock still apparent on your face.

"Right.. Well the party is on 5th floor." She steps in and hits the button, watching as the doors close. "You okay..?"

"Yeah, sorry. I.." In a flash of brilliance it hits you. "Some old dude gave me a good walloping with his cane before he got off, it just caught me by surprise is all."

"Oh, him!" She laughs at your misfortune. "Hannelore has told me about him before!"

Hannelore?

"Hannelore?"

Lauren nods, rocking back and forth on her feet. "Friend of mine. She's coming to the party, I'll introduce you. She's really cute." She flashes you a smile with that last remark. What does that mean? The doors once again ding open. So much fucking dinging. She leads you off and to the door where she knocks.

"Coming!" A male voice calls from inside.

[angelinteractivestories]

Eagleboy 3

You let out an angry scream... You can hear your voice echo around you, even being mimicked by some creature or bird who wishes to mock your pain. You grit through the heat, feeling the hallucinations subside along with the fire. "That's better.." Dorna is watching you, finishing up roasting the rabbit.

"Better?"

Reader chose “Much.”

"Much." You turn around, sinking down against the tree. You rub your face with your right hand, groaning slightly. "The rabbit's almost ready." She gently rubs some of the skin as she roasts it. "Just about.."

Reader chose to rest their eyes.

You shut your eyes, taking deep breaths. The scent of the fat on the rabbit cooking is enough to remind you that you haven't had a real meal in two days. "Sandwich barely counts," you mutter.

"Hm?"

"Nothing Dorna..."

"Hey, I never caught your name."

"Horus."

"Ah. Ready, Horus." You feel her finger gently jab your chest, causing you to lazily roll your eyes open. "Do you think she can eat meat?"

"Just..."

Reader chose to chew it up for the child.

"I'll chew it up for her." You offer your hand, glancing down at the feathered palm. She lays two strips of the meat into your hand. You notice her palm isn't feathered... 'More human blood..' You accept the meat, chewing up the first slice before picking up the baby. With a small prompt she opens her mouth, letting you feed her the rabbit. After, you eat your slice. It's less than desirable, but you imagine it'll be a while before you can have proper spices again...

Reader chose to eat more themself.

You begin to eat for yourself, occasionally feeding the girl. Dorna is eating in passing, roasting the rats while she does. You notice her eyes glancing up at you every few moments, watching you with a tenderness.

The meal passes by uneventfully. "We should probably get moving." She nods in agreement, standing up and offering her arms.

Reader chose to hug Dorna.

You wrap your free arm around her, hugging her tightly. "Thanks for cooking the food." The skin on her cheeks deepens to red, blushing. You smile, just now realizing she does have much more human blood... She doesn't even have plumage on her face. This makes you wonder if she would be okay with you, having a rather feathered face.

"You're welcome..." She smiled slightly, taking the child from your arms. "This way." She begins to start off in the direction.

Reader chose to walk beside her.

You take up position beside her, walking the invisible line south through the forest.

Roughly five hours have passed. The sun is high in the sky by now, and there is no sign of the village. You haven't seen any other travellers, but you have seen hints of people passing through recently.

Reader chose to make small conversation.

"Any idea what you're going to do when we get to town?" She shakes her head, tutting her tongue. "No, actually. Not even sure I'm going to stay there."

This makes you realize you haven't even thought of your own plans. What are you going to do? ... You decide to leave that for later.

"Do you know if anyone else got away?" She nodded this time. "I made sure at least five people got away before I got to you..." She glanced down at the bloody feathers.

Reader chose to move conversation elsewhere.

You decide to slide the conversation to another area. "Could you explain territe to me?"

"Sure. Although, I don't know much myself."

"Tell me all you know."

"Well. There's four types of five types of territe I know of. Fire, Earth, Water, Air, and Healing. Each one is signified with a different color. Supposedly mages with natural talent don't even need territe, except to give themselves a boost of power. But I have heard with territe even if you aren't natural you can become a mage... You'll just need a steady supply of it."

Reader chose to ask about the “broom wavers”.

"Can you tell me more about mages?"

She nods, glancing up to the sky. "I haven't heard much. Only little I've heard are from mages travelling through our town. But what they told me is that each mage has a primary element they focus on. They can have secondaries, but generally don't. They spend their entire lives travelling, and in solitude to try and learn new spells and become more powerful. Quite a few mages have this superstition about the magic wars to end all magic... But that's for them to worry about!"

"Yeah."

Reader chose to ask if she knows anyone else in the town.

"Know anyone in the town?"

She shrugs, caring to the child in her arms. "I have a friend from my youth, but no idea if she even remembers me..." You nod understandedly, coming to look at the road in front of you.

"I imagine she probably will."

Reader chose to speed up.

You pick up the pace, glancing sideways to make sure she followed your speed. She seamlessly increased her stride, smiling slightly. You fancied you could hear the sound of hooves behind you, but you aren't sure if it is real or not...

Reader chose to be cautious and move to the bushes.

You take her arm, moving her over to the side of the road. She raises her brow in question but keeps silent when she sees the worried look crossing your face. "What is--"

"Hush. Be quiet." You knelt down, bringing her to kneel next to you as well. Some time passes, and a man riding a horse comes running by. He's wearing deep maroon leather, and has a hood over her face.

Reader chose to watch the rider.

You watch him as he passes, searching for any tell-tale signs. You notice he is riding the horse odd, something similar to side-saddle but both legs appear to be straddling the horse. The maroon leather flaps, revealing two hands holding the reigns on one side. "Why is he holding only one side of the reigns... And what is so urgent he has to gallop so?"

"Maybe he is a messenger from the the survivors?" Her voice is slightly high-pitched and somewhat optimistic.

Reader chose to stay silent and go on.

You stay silent, nodding your head down the path. She nods, following you.

Several hours pass.

You're still walking. "Think we can stop to eat?" She asks.

Reader chose yes.

She takes your arm, practically dragging you to the nearest tree. She pulls you down, sitting next to you as she rummages in your satchel. She pulled out the two rats, offering you one and tearing the other one up to feed to the child and herself.

Reader chose to eat the rat.

You eat your rat without paying much attention to her, staring up at the sky. You notice the creature from before... It's small brown, sleek body with it's luminous blue eyes staring down at you. It almost seems like a predator...

Reader chose to leap at it.

[angelinteractivestories]

Eagleboy 2

You have had nightmares throughout the night, waking up occasionally to silence. The child is in a small rocker-like bed next to yours. It is sleeping peacefully. This is your fourth time waking up, however it's different than the others... You can hear noises outside. Yelling and metal clashing.

Reader chose Mystery Box. You decide it would be best to check, and you creep your way to the door. Right as you reach it, it's flung open and the girl from the night before is bustling in. Her feathers are rustled, blood is splattered across her torso, and she's holding a spear. "You're awake!?" She paused and shook her head, "Don't answer! Get your sister. We have to get going, they're attacking!"

Reader chose to get the baby.

You rush to the bedroom, the panic on her voice and face enough to make you not ask any questions. You grab the child out of the rocker. The sudden movement disturbs her, making her whine. "Shh." You dash back to the girl who is peeking out the door, supposedly checking the coast. "You ready to go? We need to fly before they come this way again." You nod, unsurely. "Alright. Come on." She begins to step outside without another word.

Reader chose to ask the girl to hold up.

"Hold up." She turns around, exasperatedly. "What!?"

"What's going on?" Outside you see the beginnings of fire, and several dead bodies of the people you saw celebrating not but hours ago.

"We're under attack! People are fleeing! Please,, come on!"

Reader chose to say “Let’s go.”

"Let's go." You realize it was happening again. And as much as you want to help, there is nothing you can do unarmed and carrying a child. She sprints out of the building, not looking back to see if you're following. With two flaps of her wings she's taking off, soaring over the wall to the south. "Shit.." You dash back in grabbing your satchel from the bed, emptying it of the seed and meats. You gently slide the child in, making sure the lasp on the front is caught so it won't fly open. You put it's strap around your neck so the child is held just against your chest. You sprint out, seeing people in dark leather running at you with swords and torches. In your panic, you can feel your legs running faster and your arms beating harder to make you take off faster. Within seconds, you are following the outline of the girl in the sky.

Reader chose to catch up.

You attempt to close the distance, glancing back down at the satchel around your neck constantly. The baby seems secure so far... The distance is swiftly closed, you even coming up next to her.

"Glad you cou-- Where's the kid."

"Satchel." She sighed, shaking her head with a small smile. How odd, to be smiling at such a time like this.

Reader chose to ask why she’s smiling.

"Why are you smiling?" Dorna begin to chuckle, shrugging openly.

"I dunno. It doesn't make sense, does it? I just saw my village getting burned and killed right before me... And I'm laughing and smiling. Hah!" She begins laughing more as you two fly through the air.

Reader chose to let her laugh it off.

She quickly gets over the laughter, inhaling deeply. "Sorry."

"It's okay." The silence ensues between you for what feels like hours, until she breaks it. "Want to descend?" You nod in agreement, both of you slowly dropping into the darkness of the forest.

Reader chose to ask if they can help with anything.

"Hey can I help with... Anything? Listening, talking, anything?"

She begins to shake her head, but proceeds to nod. "I just... Mind if I vent?"

"Go ahead." You gently take the child out of your satchel.

"Like... I woke up to maw screaming. I run downstairs and Pa is lying in her arms, bleeding to death. I asked what happened and... She looked up at me. Her eyes were blank, like she was already dead. She said 'They've come for us.' I asked who and she just started wailing. I.. I couldn't handle it. I grabbed Pa's spear and ran. My first thought was to get you. Funny, huh? The guy I've only known for a few hours. But, I ran and got you... Killed a few of the bastards on the way."

Reader chose to ask if she had any idea who they were.

"Who are they?"

"Have you not heard the news?! They've been going around killing the other tribes at random! They've clipped their wings and use horses... Supposedly it's a bunch of nutjobs from every Tribe, but no one is quite sure."

"Explains the galloping.." You mutter to yourself about the first night you encountered them. The baby is stirring in your arms at this point.

Reader chose to rock the child back to sleep.

You gently rock the child, making small calming cooing noises. It whines and coos back for a moment before lolling it's head into your chest nuzzling. It appears to be asleep again.

She's watching you with a warm look, obviously liking that you're putting the child first.

Reader chose to ask if it would be best to move further away.

"Do you think it would be best to move further out? They have horses..." She nods and forces herself to her feet, waving for you to follow as she begins to jog. You jog after her as well, taking care not to jostle the child too much. After about twenty minutes she stops, "Think this is far enough?"

Reader chose to move even farther out.

"Little farther." She nods in agreement, beginning to jog further. You jog after her, continuing to hold the baby carefully. Another ten minutes pass before she stops again. "This should be fine.." You nod in agreement, sliding down against a tree. She sits next to you. "It would make sense for them to be outcasts... Only someone from our tribe would know about the festival, and to strike then..."

Reader chose to glance over at the girl.

You glance over at her, nodding. She's panting from the jogging, holding her face in her hands. You notice her feathers along her arms are matted down from the blood. She must be exhausted, trying to fly with them in that shape... "Tired?" She shook her head. "Exhausted." You chuckle, gently nudging her arm. "Get some sleep. I'll watch out for us." She leans back against the tree, curling up as best she could.

Reader chose to alternate their vision between the trees and the ground.

You decide it would be best to alternate. They have horses, and as far as you know some of them could still be able to fly... Or at least be smart enough to jump from branch to branch.

The night is uneventful. The girl is tossing and turning, eventually her head landing against your shoulder with her body pushing gently against your arm. She seems to decide on this position, and begins to calm down in her sleep. You smile, glancing at her occasionally. She seems to have dropped the spear at some point... The blood is splattered most prominently on her torso, some of it running along her arms.

Reader chose to check on the child.

You check on the child in your arms. She's nustled against your chest, showing no signs of waking any time soon. Her body is rising and falling with her breathing. 'It's a miracle I found that territe..' You hear a branch crack overhead.

Reader chose to look up.

You glance up, seeing a small animal peering down at you with luminescent eyes. It examines you for a moment before jumping ot another branch and away. Your vision returns to the forest floor. The forest is silent. The sun is beginning to rise.

After a moment, you doze off. You wake up roughly two hours later. The bird girl is sitting against the tree opposite of you. "Morning. I woke up as you fell asleep, so I took watch." You nod your thanks. The child in your arms is cooing tiredly, and hungrily.

Reader chose to give Dorna the child and go hunt.

You gently hand over the child, prompting her to look up at your curiously. "I'm going hunting. I won't stray too far, so you can scream if I need to come back." She nods, smiling slightly as she rocked the child.

You make your way away from them, slowly stalking about. The luminescent eyes haunt your mind. You wonder what the creature was...

Reader chose to stalk along the ground.

You keep yourself low to the ground, moving your legs a few inches at a time. Occasionally a small critter would catch your eye and you would pounce. So far you have caught three creatures of rat like description, and one of rabbit description.

Reader chose to return.

You make your way back to the two girls, carrying the animals by the tails. When you enter the small clearing the girl has made a small fire pit. "Welcome back." She smiles.

"Fire pit?" She nods. "We're going to cook our meat."

Reader chose to start cooking.

"Of course." You just assume she knows how to start a fire.

"Skin it for me." She nods to you, offering a sharp stone. You take the stone to the animals, expertly rending the surface flesh away. "Glad my old man at least taught me this." You chuckle.

After you finish skinning she looks at you expectedly. "What?" She pauses. "Aren't you going to spark the fire?"

"...How."

"Fire territe. You ate some last night, remember? Just do what you do with the healing territe, except think fire." You take a gulp and turn to face the fire, extending your palm out.

Reader chose to summon forth the energy without caution.

With reckless abandon you force the fire energy to your hand, sending out a small stream of fire. It impacts the twigs and leaves she's gathered, making a small fire. You manage to reel the energy back in, containing most of it. "Well... I need to be a bit more careful next time."

"I'll say." She chuckles, spearing the meat before beginning to roast it.

Reader chose to ask about plans.

"So, what exactly are our plans?" She pauses as she cooks, but quickly resumes. "I was imagining we'd head toward the Bii village. They'd be the most helpful. We can figure out what to do from there." You nod in agreement. Any idea is better than no idea.

Reader chose to tend to the child.

You pick up the small child, making sure she's okay. She coos and smiles at you, grabbing her hands gently. You smile, letting her grab your finger. "How old is she?"

"Two winters."

"Wow.." You nod, continuing to rock her.

"What happened to your parents?"

Reader chose to be truthful.

"..." You take a deep breath. "Our village was attacked. Much like yours. I was too late. When I arrived everyone was dead, and everything was burnt to the ground. It was a miracle I found her.." You pause again, forcing back tears and the imminent breakdown. "I had to find some territe, or else she would have died... She was badly burned, bleed, and barely breathing..."

The girl has stayed silent. her feathers attempting to ruffle. "I see..." You gently lay the baby down next to her, turning your back to them as you force yourself against a tree. The bark against your torso is a rough reminder of what is reality as you begin to hallucinate again. The girl watches worriedly, continuing to cook. She knows there is nothing she can do, as she learned last night. You let out an angry scream...

[angelinteractivestories]

Eagleboy 1

You are half-human, half-eagle. Your tribe has been eradicated, much to your dismay. You were returning from a hunting trip when you saw it... Everything in shambles. The village on fire, and shadows disappearing into the opposite side of the forest. Your mind fancies that it can hear the galloping of horses, but your first instinct is to not change them. It is to try and find any survivors. You are standing in the center of the burning village.

Reader chose to yell out.

You yell out. "Hello!? Is anybody still alive!? Even conscious?" The panic on your voice is apparent even to you. Things seem to be moving at an agonizingly slow pace. In the nearest building you hear a small whimpering, similar to that of a child's.. You don't think. With in an instant you are throwing the rubble to the side, finding a small baby. It is badly burned, bleeding, barely breathing... But living. However, even you can tell it won't survive much longer than five minutes. "If only I had some territe," you think...

Reader chose to scrounge for territe.

You throw the rubble aside, hoping to find some territe. Any. You know for a fact everyone in the village was required to keep white territe around, for medicinal purposes. The only problem is the collapse may have crushed it. You manage to find one crystal, barely the size of your thumb.  "Here goes nothing..." You crush it, feeling it's power infuse into your body. Magic Infusion is always such a rush... You plant your hand firmly against the child's small torso, pouring the healing power into the child. It's breathing begins to stabilize, some of the burns fading...

Reader chose to use as much magic as they could.

With a grunt you dig deeper into your spiritual-self, forcing the magic to pour out of your body.  The child is visibly becoming better, the bleeding stopping at this point. However you quickly run out of any healing magic, almost out of physical energy as well. The child is breathing, staring at you serenely. Now that you can have a closer look, you realize it is the younger sister of your crush... Thoughts of her begin to flood your mind, the crushed remains of her house in the background of your vision. Your legs are weak, your vision is blurred at best and the fires are dying out.

Reader chose to hold the child and rest against the well.

You hold the child close, stumbling over to the well at the center of the village. You collapse with you back against the cool stones, staring out at the dying embers and crushed buildings. "Who could've done such a horrible thing?" Several nearby tribes rush into your mind, but you think other hawks wouldn't be this cruel... The Bii wouldn't do this, they're a peaceful people... The Humans? Maybe... Your vision fades as you fall asleep, holding the child.

You wake up the next morning, alive and well. The child is asleep in your arms. It's feathers along it's arms rustling.

Reader chose to start moving.

You begin to think it would be best to scavenge some food, but swiftly decide against it. The killers could be back at any moment. You force yourself to your feet, cradling the child in the crook of your arms. You take note her feathers have just barely come in. They're black, just like her sister's... The cause you to glance down at your own feathers lining your arms. Coffee brown. You reach the edge of the forest and quickly shuffle in, keeping your eyes peeled for anything you may be able to eat or kill for food.

Reader chose to travel to the nearest tribe.

You think to yourself, 'The Fehrnye are the closest tribe.. They've always been good to us.' You begin to walk toward the tribe, still scanning for any food. You think it may be faster to fly, however that would also make you easier to spot. It is a risk, but should it be taken?

Reader chose to walk and hunt along the way.

'It would be safest to walk. And it would not disturb the child... As well as giving me the chance to gather some food for us.' You continue walking, making some way before you notice a Feeding Tree. These trees are strategically positioned between allied tribes for travellers to eat if they are not able to fly directly to it. The basket is filled with seeds, salted meats, and fruits. 'This at least verifies I'm going the right way...' The child has begun to stir. It will be hungry when it awakes.

Reader chose more seed over meats and fruit.

Your pouch hung from your side is empty from your hunting trip last night. You had completely forgotten about it until now. "Perfect.." You fill the pack with enough seed to make it half-full. "Or was that half-empty?" ...You take five pieces of salted meat, and three apples to put on top of the seeds. "That should do us over until the next tree, I hope." The child makes a small, yawning coo.

Reader chose to take a small break to eat, and feed the child.

You sit down, leaning back against the tree. You gnaw at a salted piece of meat, offering a small amount to the child. It stares at the seeds curiously before opening it mouth. You pour enough for it to swallow, then wait. The bird waits hesitantly before doing a small swallowing motion, cooing for more. You smile, chuckling at how cute it is before feeding it more. "So much like you're sister..."

Roughly thirty minutes have passed before you finish.

Reader chose to jog some of the way.

You begin to jog, glancing around as you do to keep track of your surroundings. The child is looking around also, although more out of curiosity. It must be odd, only being two winters old and having to leave the village... The sun is low in the sky now, but some lights are visible in the far distance. You are close to the tribe.

Reader chose to pick up the pace.

The excitement of almost being to safety causes you to pick up speed. The child coos excitedly, picking up on your facial prompt of excitement. You smile down at it, continuing to run toward the cities. The closer you get, the more bright the lights become. They almost seem wild... Similar to the light of fires...

Reader chose to slow down.

You slow down, coming to a cautious walk as you approach the walls. The closer you get, the more apparent it becomes the light is indeed fires. However, there are still guards standing along the walls. 'Why are they not helping put out the fires!?' One of them seems to take notice of you, cawing out to it's neighboring guards before swooping toward you. It's feathers are a bright blue, with red specks among them. He is wearing loose cloth to accent his muscles, and spears on his backs. "You! Who are you, and what are you doing here!?"

Reader chose to lie and state they are travelers passing through. Name has chosen to be Horus.

"I'm just a traveller, passing through. May I stay here for the night?" The guard looks you up and down and nods. "I will open the gate for you."

With two flaps of his arms he takes off, swooping up to the top of the hall. He barks out an order at the other guards before turning around to nod down at you. The gate begins to rise, revealing the citizens. They are dressed festively, and seem to be "partying."

Reader decided to enter leisurely, you don’t want to draw too much attention to yourself.

You enter the village leisurely, allowing the gate to draw to a shut behind you. The street is lined with stalls that are cooking food and offering entertainment. Many of the males are topless, only wearing loose-fitting trousers that are brightly colored. The woman are wearing tight and bright clothing as to draw attention. You have no idea what they may be celebrating... The children are running about screaming, playing.

Reader decided to ask a nearby child what was going on.

You approach a nearby child who is watching a stall with a "clown". "Excuse me, can you tell me what is being celebrated?" The child tears it's attention way from the entertainer, looking up at you. "It's the yearly festival of the Sun! Praise the sun!" He turns back to the clown. You note it has a sun painted onto it's face. 'Well that explains the bright clothing..'

Reader decided to watch the entertainment, thinking they may glean some information.

A nearby entertainer catches your interest. A woman seems to be putting on a puppet show. You think, 'I may learn something.. And besides, it'll entertain the kid.' You take a stance in front of it, the baby in your arms watching enchantedly. "And so," the woman narrates, "the sun commanded the great hero to go into the mountain and defeat the great monster who was stealing his magic!" The puppet of a yellow bird man made a great display of entering the paper mountain.

Reader decided to find a place to stay.

You turn away from the puppet show, approaching a nearby building with a sign signifying it was an inn. You push open the door, peeking in. An older bird man with greying feathers is sitting just in the door. "Welcome friend," he says. "How may I help you?" You pause, but ask: "How much for the night?" He smiles and shakes his head, "Free tonight. I imagine you came here for the festival and spent all your money." You nod your head, not daring to contradict lest you pay. 'Well, that's sorted. Now what...'

Reader decided to go to the tavern and speak to the barkeep.

You decide that it would be rather easy to find gossip during such a bustling festival. You begin to make your way to the nearest tavern. Before you get there, the child in your arms starting cooing and whining. It must be hungry. You debate the morality of taking a child into a bar.

Reader decided to enter the tavern anyway.

You enter the tavern, only to find this wasn't the worst choice. Apparently it is much more child-friendly on special occasions. Several children are with their parents, eating and drinking. You approach the bar, sitting down closest to the barkeep. You fish some seed out of your pack, feeding it. "Barkeep, what's the word?" He stares at you for a moment, his black feathers ruffling. "The word? Well. Depends. What kind of word you want?"

Reader decided to ask for the bad word. "The bad word."

The barkeep smiles, leaning forward. "I like your style." He glances about. "Word is there's a war a-brewin'. The humans are getting restless. Supposedly the Bii are even pairing up with them." He glances around again. "And you didn't hear this from me, but a tribe has gone crazy. Rumor is someone's poisoned the lot, and tooken over their mind. Making them turn against all their allies."

Reader decided to ask about the partnering.

"The Bii? Partnering? But they've always been so peaceful.."

"That's what I've heard. It'll be rather formidable as well. Their magic, with the humans weapons and military knowledge?"

He shook his head. "Going to be real bad."

"Thanks.."

The reader decided to ask about the tribe.

"Any idea which tribe?"

The barkeep shook his head. "Your guess is as best as mine. I've just hard they been goin' 'round murderin' and burnin' like there ain't no tomorrow."

"I see..."

Reader decided to leave and mingle with the locals.

You go outside, mingling with the locals. Many of the men don't seem to pay you any mind. It's rather obvious what their mind is on... Several of the women are cooing over the baby you carry, talking to it and playing with it. Three of them are currently.

Reader decided to strike up a conversation with a blue-green bird girl.

"Are you a single-father, then?"

"Ah. I guess, something like that. Although I'm not really her father."

"Brother, then?"

"...Yeah. Do you have any siblings?"

"Mhm! One older sister, and one younger brother." She giggled, playing with the little one's hands.

"Must be hard, being the middle."

"Oh, you have no idea!"

Reader decided to ask about the festival.

"So, what exactly is this festival?"

"Well. Originally it was to praise the sun, for blessing us with Territe. And the Great Hero for defeating the dragon hoarding the Territe."

"Oh, you must mean that legendary territe deposit no one ever found."

"That's the one! Although, now-a-days the festival is more used to mark the middle of summer, and for many of us to find new mates, or just have festivities!"

The bird-girl is tall, and slender in form. Her winged arms are covered in blue feathers with green specks running among them. Her hair is straight, and fair with a bright green tone. She has little chest to speak of, and average hips. Her face is pretty, with dark purple eyes.

Reader decided to end the conversation.

"Well, I think we better get going..." Your stomach grumbles.

"Oh, are you hungry? I can take you to a good food-stall! My treat."

The reader decided to accept.

"That'd be great."

"Excellent! This way!" She takes your hand that isn't holding the child, practically dragging you to a nearby food stall. It's a large, rectangular tent. There is places to sit inside. The cloth is purple. "Come on." She took a seat, patting the one next to her. You sit as well. "Order whatever you want."

Reader decided to get food for the child, and a Flaming Beak Sandwich.

"Do you have anything the little one can eat?" The woman behind the counter glances over, and nods. "I'll throw in the Cotaw Cup for free. What do you want, hun?" You ponder. "Flaming Beak Sandwich."

She turns around, fixing up a coup of soup. The bread she uses for your sandwich is a dark brown, and seeded.

She throws on an unidentifable meat, and what appears to be a cheese. She sprinkles a blue spice onto the soup, and a red spice onto the sandwich.

"What's the spices?"

"Territe."

Reader asked about the territe, and fed the child first.

"Why do you add territe?" You ask, gently spooning the soup to the child who sips it eagerly.You smile as she eats. "Well. I add it to the soup to help it cool faster. Blue is ice. And I add it to your sandwich for the extra kick. Red is fire."

You pause. "There's several types of territe?" The girl from before blinks at you. "You didn't know that?"

"No... At home we only ever had white territe." You continue to spoon the soup for the child, smiling sheepishly.

Reader decided to talk to the girl.

"So, what should I be expecting when I eat the sandwich?"

The girl chuckles, tapping a finger to her chin. "Let's just say I'll be taking your sister as a precaution."

"Oh dear..."

"Oh dear indeed." She giggled, watching as you fed the child who seemed to be getting sleepy from the warm soup.

Reader decided to hand over the child and eat.

"Okay.. Might as well get it over with." You offer the child to her.

She takes it tenderly, rather skilfully tucking it into the soft-down of her feathered arms as she gently rocked it. "Handled children before?"

"My younger brother." She glances up at you, blushing slightly before glancing back down.

You turn to your sandwich, staring at it like the beast you have been led to believe it is.

Reader decided to dive straight into the sandwich.

You pick up the sandwich, take a deep breath, and chomp. You chew hesitantly, swallowing after a moment. "It's... Not that hot?" You pause, feeling a heat in your stomach. "Oh dear Lord on High." The fire wells up, quickly entering your throat and mouth, making your eyes water and your nose burn.

Reader decided to continue eating like a dumbass.

You take another large bite, only one fourth of the way through. The heat is quickly radiating out to your feathers and skin, beginning to resemble the heat of the fires last night. You begin to have flashbacks... Smoke everywhere. Fire covering your vision. Shadows running into the forest... A child crying among the rubble. You using every ounce of energy to heal the poor child..

Reader decided to set the sandwich down.

You set the sandwich down. The watering eyes are quickly turning into tears. You're terrified. You have no idea what's happening. The present and the flash backs are beginning to muddle. You aren't entirely sure what is real anymore. "Are you okay?" The girl gently took your shoulder. The touch makes you jump.

Reader attempts to force through it.

'It's not real.' You begin to chant this to yourself in your head, in some vain attempt to convince yourself the flashbacks can't hurt you. They become worse as the heat peaks, feeling as if your body is burning. Quickly, the heat begins to subside and with it the flashbacks.

... "Hey..." The girl is holding your hand at this point. "What's wrong?"

"N-Nothing.." You're visibly shaken. Sick to your stomach.

Reader decided to ask if the girl could escort him to the inn.

"Hey uh.." You pause. "Could you come with me back to the inn? I don't think I can carry her..." She nods sympathetically, standing with you and leading you out.

Five minutes pass as you meander your way back to the inn. "Thank you, so much.." You take the girl back. "No problem." She leans forward, kissing your cheek. "My name is Dorna. I'll be back to check on you in the morning, so don't go running off too early!" She giggles, noticing your blush from her kiss before running off.