"No! hush, it's our secret!" [After the girls argued among themselves for a bit, they heard the bells ringing, signaling it was time to go home] "Bye bye, miss!" [they skipepd off, leaving Ophelia intrigued and confused]
[ The next morning, Homura was still concerened that she was still in the past when she woke up. Perhaps it meant the story was not over yet, there were still things she had to witness here. The next morning passed fairly uneventfully. After breakfats, Gretchen headed back to the inn to rejoin her parents, promising her friends she would rejoin later that day. Soon after that, Queen Verena and some of her young wards arrived for a visit. Homura joined the queen and Marianna for tea, while charlotte played with the girls and Oktavia , whose legs were feeling much better, was still out training with her sword. During idel gossip, Homura learned that the queen was an avid fan of theater and tended to quote sayings relating to it, and also she was in her 20s and her birthday was in a few days. In fact, her birthday happened to be on the night of Walpurghisnacht and considered an omen... Finally Marianna turned the topic to what happened yesterday] "by the way Lady Verena, something interesting happened yesterday, involving some of your girls. It seemed they are somehow involved with magic." [The queen paused, her teaciup to her lips] "Oh?" [Marianna nodded and described what happened, with the monsters attack and the girls suddenly as magical warriors. Verena sighed and shook her head] "Yes. I am ware of this... Apparently, some of the girls have met a 'fariy' anf form a contract of sorts, and are granted a wish and magical powers. That is how Lucy had her dog revived, Myrta had her teeth fixed, Bridgette got prettier, among others. But in return, they batte these horrible monsters, these grief witches" "Oh my... " To be honest, I have mixed feelings about all of this. On one hand, it is very dangerous, they could get hurt, and you know how people are wary of magic. When I took them in, I swore I would protect them" She then gave a small smile "On the other hand, They are happy with these wishes and powers, and about the fact that they are defending people from these evils..." [Homura listened with a hollow pit in her stomach. She knew what the results would be, the horrible truth.] "I actually have met this 'fairy' myself' the queen continued "An odd little thing, resembled a white cat of sorts with strange red markings, and it could talk. You know what? It actually offered me the contract. It said that I had the greatest latent potential for the role." "What did you say? Did you accept?" "I told itI would think about it." [She looked down at her cup again ]"It would be enjoyable to battle alongside the girls, and to help defend against those monsters. But, I can not really think of something to wish for, anything I want or need more. I am happy. Besides, I am to busy with ruling this kingdom and taking care of it, I would not have time to add monster slaying. I know my girls could take care of it. ..."
[Homura breathed a great sigh of relief, then. Humility's Aunt Verena seemed to be a bit old to be an Magical Girl candidate, but still, it was best that she stayed far away from all that, she thought. But wait...Hmm, on the other hand...]
(...Oh, we Incubators can and have made Contracts with older woman, and even male humans if they had enough potential. Niner usually ignores the ones who don't fit his ideal candidate profile list, though - It's just not worth the trouble, he says...)
[Eight said, and then sent a half transparent projection of himself inside Humility's mindspace, where Homura was.]
(But hey - Wasn't there something else you wanted to ask me?)
[Homura hummed at that.]
(...Oh, there's plenty of things I want to ask you, but for now...)
[Well, what she really wanted first was something that would let her heal Humility's heart properly, but - ]
(Oh, good, I have just the thing, then! I made it as an experiment, but I bet it'll be useful to you as well...)
[And then, he tossed something that looked like a small pretty eastern style tea cup with a lid on it her way, grinning.]
(It looks like a cup, but it's actually a magical energy storage device, if you know what I mean - Oh, yes, I see you do. It's empty now, so you can store your magical energies inside it, little by little. It should be useful if you want to heal that girl you're dwelling in for the moment, correct? I mean, she does seem to have a bad heart, so...)
[Homura grabbed the thing, and stared at it, then.]
(So how does this work?)
{Eight yawned, and licked his paw.]
(...You just should put your hand on it and will any spare magical energies you have to go inside, I think, and do it every day. I'm not sure how long it'll take to fill up, though - And I wouldn't try to do anything with that poor girl's heart unless it's filled to the brim, if I was in your shoes...)
"I will try soon. Thank you..." "Homulily!" [Gretchen waved at her] "would you like to go watch Oktavia training with me?" "Ah? Of course, Gretchen!" [Homura pocketed thw magical device and followed Gretchen to where Oktavia was out by the stables. The bluenette herself, currently clad in a simpler , easier to move in dress and boots had been training with her sowrd, using some hay bales as targets. Lo and behold Ophelia turned up, , perched in a tree, watching her with a grin.] "Pretty good technique there, Okty!" "You!" [Oktavia faltered angrily, missing a step and falling into a pile of hay. Ophelia chuckled and jumped down.] "Easy there! you can't just easily lose your guard at every distraction!" "H-hush!" [Oktavia pouted, scrambling up, pieces of hay stuck in her hair] "What are you doing here, thief!"
...Well, there was something I wanted to ask you people, ya see. Since you're mostly nobles, or rich anyway, and well educated and shit. Well, it's supposed to be your job to solve the problems commonors can't, after all, though most of you don't seem to be intererested in doing that at all, to be honest, ha ha ha...
[Ophelia said with a shrug. Oktavia stared at Ophelia for a moment, blinking.]
...It's the noble's job to...solve the problems common people can't? Huh, I never thought of it in exactly that way, but you're correct, I suppose.
[And then, she sighed a bit.]
- And yes, there are plenty of nobles who don't take care of the commonors in their estates at all, I'm afraid, but my family is not like that, and neither is Lady Marianna's family, and I don't think Lady Humility's family is like that either, whoever they actually are.
...So what happened?
[Ophelia sighed at that, and looked at Oktavia and Humility, and told them about what had happened when she met the strange girls with magical powers. Oktavia and Humility both blinked as she told them her story - Wait, so why was Lady Verenia's magic-using girls fighting each other before fighting the monster, anyway? And what was a "Grief Seed"?]
[Homura shuddered, , then, and took over Humility's body again before she quite realized what she was doing.]
- Ophelia - I do not think meeting that "fairy" is a good idea at all, even if any of them care over and offered to take you to him! Why would anybody grant Wishes for free, or give anybody magical powers for that matter?
[Oktavia's eyes widened at that.]
...But...But... Lady Verenia wouldn't let them make this Contract if anything bad would come of it, correct? I mean, she does appear to care about them a lot...
[Homura shook her, or rather Humility's, head at that.]
- Kyubey is just much too good at twisting the truth without lying outright. All he has to do is give people that cute empty smile and...and...
[Ooops? Homura put a hand to her mouth, dismayed, while Gretchen's eyes widened.]
...Lady Humility! So you mean you - you've met this fairy called Kyukyu before?
[Homura sighed, then, and ran her hand thought her - Humility's - hair. She then put her eyeglasses on her face, and looked into Gretchen's eyes, her expression stern/]
- Oh, yes I have, dearest Gretchen - And I tell you, he is a evil little thing who lies and lies and lies, even though he'll insist he never did such a thing at all!
"How do you know, Homulily?"[Gretchen tilted her head in worry] [Before Homulily could come up with an explanation, some of the young wards, the ones who were magical girls, showed up] "What are you saying, Aunt Homulily!" [The one name Bridgette cried] Homura sighed] "listen child, you should not trust this creature. It is just using you, and cares not about your end fate or your feelings." the girl fornwed further "...I don't believe you! Stop[ saying mean things about him! you're just jealous!" "homulily...."[ Gretchen looked worried now. She had never really seen her dear Homulily being this, cold before...] "What do you mean just using us? I don't understand?"" Brigitte said confused] [an the little girl Nani glared up at Homura] "Not true!! you're just being mean! You'll see! I hope the witch monster gets you!" ] and with that homura noticed the familar tiny glim of negative darkness in her soul gem jewel, on a necklace in these days]. " Nini! How could you say that! Thats horrible!"[ Brigette scolded.] "I dont care! I dont like her!!" [Verena glided in, Marianna behind her.. they looked concerened] "Is somehtig the matter?"
[Homura sighed, then, and shook her head. Telling all those Magical Girls that they were all fated to turn into Witches if they didn't die first right now was probably not a good idea. They'd made the Contract already, after all, and she had no idea what their personalities were like. She didn't want to be responsible for them going Witch even sooner then they would have, after all...]
...It's nothing, Lady Marianna.
[She said to Marianna with a sigh, and then turned toward Nini, and gave her Soul Gem a pointed look. She then leaned over to the girl and whispered - ]
- And I'd get that cleaned off as soon as possible if I was you, Miss. Have a good day.
[Homura walked off with a sigh, then, feeling a great deal like finding a place to cry it off. She stopped for a moment when she heard Gretchen quickly tell the other girls goodbye.]
...Miss Gretchen, please. You don't have to follow me about like this...
[Gretchen walked up to her, and gave her a pained smile, then.]
Lady Homu - Humility, please don't say that. You're - I know you're a noble and everything, and my family are just merchants, but...I...I...
[Homura rubbed her eyes, then.]
- Of course we're friends, Miss Gretchen. Rank doesn't matter as much as most people seem to think, I believe.
[Gretchen hugged Homura, then, tears in my eyes. Homura sighed, then, and hugged her back. She then found them a bench to sit on behind some bushes, away from prying eyes.]
...Miss Gretchen. Can you keep a secret? I want to tell you something, but - You can't tell anybody about it, not even Lady Marianna, or Lady Oktavia, or that red-head, or any of those girls in Lady Verenia's troop...
[Homura hesistated. should she tell her the truth? As, the many times she had to see Madoka's sweet face crumble as she revealed a horrible turth. Thos would be no different, finding out her Homulily was actuaclly a doppleganger from the future... And the truth about magical girls? Grethen would likely seeks out a way to save them and then get herself in danger...] And then her own response came up on autopilot again, like it had before. That of her past self Homulily she was currently inhabiting]"Oh Gretchen, I do not know myself."[ she put a hand to her hand starting to feel woozy.] "Perhaps I am becoming ill, and starting to have delusions..." "Oh poor Homulily! But, what were you going to tell me?)
[and form another bush, a pair of beady red and lavender eyes on a white and lavender furry face was watchign in inetrest
Homura groaned and shook her head then. OK, so she was Homura for the moment, but Humility's personality was waking up quickly now, and...]
...Miss Gretchen! There's just one thing I want to tel you, all right?
[And then, she put a hand to her head.]
- If a white critter with red eyes ever offers you a Wish, and magical powers, and a mission to defeat monsters, and asks you to make a Contract with him - Just...just don't. He looks cute and harmless, but he lies and lies and...
[Homura almost crumpled over Gretchen, then.]
...Just...promise...
[Gretchen groaned, then, and quickly tried to hold her up.]
- Homulily - Oh, no! Please wake up, dearest Homulily!
[And a few moments later...It was Humility who woke up in Gretchen's arms.]
"Ah.. I am sorry.." [Homuliy shook her head, clearing back up. that irritation was gone "It must have been a flare of my illness" "do not strain yourself. Perhaps you should get some more rest then. you will need all the strength you can for tomorrow." Humility just nodded and gave a reassuring smile to gretchen and put her hand on hers. Gretchen relaxed and smiled back and they went back tea as usual.
The next morning, Humility was feeling much better, though those memories still were blurred. After a nice breafast, and the ssuddenly extra luxurious bath she promised with gretchen, (this really was nice... inside homura was figeting again at Grentchen's touch). later in the day she was crying out in discomfort and gasping for breath.] "Oh do calm down, Lady Humility! You're acting like you have never worn a corset before!" [The maid scolded as she tied the strings tightly "thoiugh this is your first real apperance at a ball, so it is a bit differentt then the usual style you are used to." Hummility bit her lip and tried to relax and stood patiently as the maids drapped layer upon later of fine clothing upon her. Yes it was uncomfortable, but she could manage it. It was a ball, she was a lady, she knew she had to look her best. A while more of pinnig up her hair and applying make up and jewelry, then the final layer of dress, and she was finally done. Internally, she let out an awe as she saw her appearence in the mirror. Her dress was a shimmering silvery ball gown with purple trimming and ribbons, a choker with a diamon on it, a few small braid woven into her updo with a purple headbacd with some ribbons on it. When she went over to meet the other girls, she was not surprised to see that Oktavia's blue ball gown had a ocean motif to it, with some deocor of seashells and some pinned in her hair and some layers frilled like waves. But her eyes widened when she saw Gretchen. Her ball gown was white and adorned with white feathers and pink and gold ribbons, some more pinned into her hair. How it matched perfeftly.. Gretchen giggled and skipepd over as best she couldin her heavy gown "Oh Houlily!! you look so beautiful!!" Humility smiled "I think you look even more beautiful..."
[Gretchen said with a smile, remembering that she probably should use Humlity's real name for a formal occasion like this, even if she did love the nickname she'd given her.]
[And then, she started to walk next to Humility, toward the gardens.]
- Oh, Lady Humility, aren't those new corsets just awesome? They're just so much less constricting them the old ones!
[Gretchen said, grinning. Humility looked at her, then, her eyes widening comically.]
...New...corsets?
[Gretchen sweatdropped a bit, then.]
- Oh! Um, my famiily gave me some of the new style corsets that are all the rage at the Capital now, and, um -
[Aand that was when Marianna and Charlotte came up from behind them, grinning!]
...Oh, my. I've heard of those new corsets, but - Miss Gretchen, I'll appreciate it so much if you'd let us try them on later!
[Marianna said with a genuine smile.]
Why, yes, of course, Lady Marianna! My family gave me about 15 of them with different sizes, so...
[Gretchen said with a flustered smile.]
They're really so much easier to move around in, and they don't squeeze you as half as much as the old ones, I think...
[And that was when Humility put her hand to her chest, grimancing. Oh, no - Of all the times for her heart pains to come back...]
[Gretchen, Marianna and Charlotte all looked at her, looking very worried indeed.]
- Does your chest hurt again, Lady Humility?
[Charlotte said, and patted Humility's arm while Marianna and Gretchen found her a bench to sit on.]
...Lady Humility. Do you want to go back to your room?
[Gretchen said, while Marianna groaned. Lady Humility really should be attending this ball if it was at all possible, politically speaking, she was pretty sure...Especially if "Lady Verenia" was attending too.]
[And that was when an idea struck her.]
- Lady Humility! Why don't you go back to your room for now, and rest a little, and then try to get dressed again, this time with the new style corsets Miss Gretchen has brought us, so you can come back to the ball later? Corsets that are easier to move around would be better in general in your case, I think...
...That...would probably be a good idea. Thank you, Lady Marianna.
[Humility wheezed, and then looked at Gretchen.]
- Miss Gretchen - I would appreciate it so much if you could help me to my room, and get the new corsets...
"Oh of course! I am sorry for the trouble. You can go ahead Marianna, Oktavia. We shall be along shortly." "All right." [As they left, Oktavia was cheerful and excited] "Lord Kiesly will be there! And I think Sir Bruno, the captain of the guard! and I have news, I heard my new concerto that I wrote shall be played tobnight!!" [The maids were annoyed to have to undo , change the corset, and then redo all of the layers of Homulily's gown. It was worth it though since Homulily felt better now with the other corset. After a warm cup of tea, they were off to the ball!
...You were right, Miss Gretchen, those new corsets are so much easier to move around in.
[Humility said with a smile.]
Thank you so much!
[Gretchen blushed a bit at that.]
Ahh, it was nothing, Lady Humility - And I'm so glad you're looking better now...
[Gretchen stopped a bit, then, as they almost reached the ballroom proper.]
...Lady Humility? There was something I wanted to ask you...
[Humility smiled at her, warmly.]
- You can ask me anything, Miss Gretchen!
[Gretchen gulped a little, then.]
...I...I'm not sure if it was even real or not, it might have been just a dream...but...
[And then, she took a deep breath.]
- What would you say if I had a dream, and in that dream, a very cute red eyed white bunnycat thing asked me if I wanted to be a hero? I mean, I mean, I wouldn't even have mentioned it if you hadn't told me about cute but evil creatures who lied a lot...
[Homulily's eyes widened at that] "Gretchen..." "I am sorry,. We may have to discuss this later after the ball." [Homura nodded, realziiging this meant something is Gretchen could dream about Kyubey...Dear sweet gretchen, she really didn't want to worry her. So she would just try to control this problem for the time being. Here they were at the ball tonight, to have fun.
The night was progressing fairly well so far. hidden inside Humility, Homura saw various other characters from her current story, such as Hitomi's past self, and some of the still human selves of the witches, such as Gertrude. Queen Verena was there, wearing a maginicifence blue and violet dress. She had arrived separetly as she had some royal business to take care of. crown prince Kyle of the blue kingdo arrived. He was a very handome blue haired young man and ladies fawned over him. Oktavia on the other hand seemed more itnerested in talking with the knight who accompanied him. Apparently he was captain of the guard for the blue army. Homura also caught sight of a handsome young 'gentleman' in a polished red coat and tricorn hat and and tucked back red hair milling about the buffet table, and expertly slipping off valuables from unknowing nobles...]
[Homura sighed, then, and turned away, hoping Kyoko - No, Ophelia - wouldn't get caught for that little caper. Things were complicated enough already, politically, without having a famous thief being captured in their midst.]
...Miss Gretchen? I'm a bit tired, I'm afraid...Could we find someplace we could rest for a couple of minutes?
[Gretchen nodded, and took her to an alvove at the corner in the room. Marianna and Charlotte were resting on one of the stools on there already, while some of the other maids rushed about, adjusting their ribbons and things.]
[Marianna put her finger to her lips as soon as she saw Humility and Gretchen come into the alcove. Humility and Gretchen put their own fingers to their lips, too, and nodded back with a grin - They didn't want anybody they didn't know to catch them when they were trying to take a break, after all,]
[And that was when the Prince Kyle wandered over to near the alcove, looking at a letter in his hand and talking softly to himself.]
...All right, so now I've even gotten my grandmother on my side, ha ha ha - I mean, I've always felt sorry for poor Princess Rillanne, but whether I want to marry her is a different matter entirely! And once I marry my dearest Michelle, our ties with the Green Kingdom are going to be so much stronger...
[The young handsome noble walking next to him sighed at that, then.]
- Your Highness. I mean, I'm sure Princess Michelle is a lovely lady, but politically speaking -
[Kyle humphed, then, and rubbed his eyes, looking a bit drunk.]
......Politically speaking, I can't think of a worse disaster then being forced to marry somebody who's actually called "the Princess of Evil" by her own people, to be honest. I mean, I don't really believe she could be as bad as all the stories say, but still.
[Marianna almost went cross-eyed on her stool, then. No, wait, she could fully understand somebody not wanted to marry her cousin Rillane, but still - Ugh, she didn't even want to imagine how Rillane would take the news! Did this Prince Kyle want to cause a war or what?]
[...Well, OK, it wasn't like Prince Kyle and Rillanne were officially engaged yet, but the negotiations had been going on for years and years already! If they'd been just plain nobles and not Royalty, they would have been considered "pre-engaged" already at this point, so...]
[then came an announcement] "Presenting her m[ajesty, Princess Rillianne Lucifienne Adutriche of Lucifine!" Many people tensed up at the arrival of a lovely young blond girl in her early teens wearing a ornate gold gown and a confident smirk. following her in her shadow was a boy, identical to her physically and wearing a higher up servant garb and and was looking down with a demure expresison proper of a servant. Yes there were rumors that princess Rillaienne had a twin brother, though not in royalty. some sort of conpiracy perhaps.)
Oktavia was glowering at the gold princess] "Just what is she doing here!" "Um, she is royalty after all, of course she would be here," [Gretcheb said, looking nervous. The redhead seemed even more furious at Rilliann'e arrival and took all it could to restrian themselves from killing her on the spot.Of course rillianne had made many enemies... Marinna seemed upst as well, butt kept calm ]"let us pay her no attentopn and keep enjoying the night." Okavia sighed and noded "yes, you aare rught..."
[the next bit seemed to pass without any incident. Eventually the redhead approached Oktavia and bowed] "May I have this dance, my lady?" "Hm, yes, you may." [And the two stepped gracefulyl on the dance floor and began their waltz. As they danced, Oktavia tutted] "so then, thief. I can guess what you are doing here." [Ophelia smirked ]"Why enjoying the food and company of course! " "And robbery." "fine, maybe a bit of heist planned, some particular personal details." "I could call th guards right here and now." "And yet you didnt. Youre havin too much fun with me."
[And then, she looked at Ophelia, grinning, and whispered - ]
- You do look good in men's garb, though, I do admit!
[And that was when Rillanne started to move in a very purposeful way, rudely pushing people our of her way! Okvatia and Ophelia looked at each other, and slowly left the dance floor, following her at a distance...
[Aand that was when Prince Kyle came popping out of a nearby corridor! He gasped as he saw Rilanne heading toward him, doing a good imitation of a deer confronting a magical light.]
...Prince Kyle! Oh, Prince Kyle! I'm so happy I was able to catch up with you here...
[Kyle swallowed. Why was she even here!? Royals weren't supposed to just turn up out of the blue like this, right!?!?]
- I...Lady Rillanne...Um...
[Rillanne simply glomped him where he stood, a fake sweet smile plastered on her face.]
...I can't wait until those stupid negotiations are all finished, and we're finally officially engaged, Prince Kyle...
[And then, she smiled up at him happily, wondering if he'd actually dare to mention that - that Green thing that she'd been hearing about, right in the open. Well, she didn't really think he'd dare, Prince Kyle wasn't very smart but he did know better then to commit political suicide like that, she was pretty sure...]
[Kyle, Kyle, Kyle. Well, it wasn't like she loved him for his brains, right? She'd set things right with that Green bimbo soon enough, and then, things would be peachy indeed.]
(Ophelia's lip curled at princess rillianne "If they think Im gonna bow to that evil brat, they are so wrong... ""I would have to agree with you on that. " Oktavia murmured darkly)
eventually Oktavia let out a small cry of delight upon seeing a handosome dainty boy with dust colored hair. "Lord Kiesle!" Ophelia watched As she headed over and started talking with him. Why, was that a pang of disapointment at this..?
The some of the members of the orchestra soon approached Oktavia. Lord Kiesle was going to play the violin for a few songs among them, including the concerto Oktvia had writtn, muxh to her honor.) "Lady Von Seckendorf! We ar about to play your concerto next, but our conductor had just sprained his wrist and needs a break. So we were wondering, if you could perform the conduction in his place for your concerto? Perhaps even sing in fact? We heard you were quite good..." (Her eyes widened ")What? Really?" (Gretchen giggled) "Oh Oktavia! What an honor!" "Y-yess," she glanced over at kiesle, blushing) "I would lov to! I mean, I accept!"
[Rillane, in the meanwhile, was scowling as she heard the blue haired girl squeal in joy from across the room. How dare they ignore her like that - Didn't they know she was the Queen of the Gold Kingdom!?]
[...But on the other hand, maybe this was a good chance to have a talk with Prince Kyle without everybody and their dog looking on. Rillanne looked around them, and then quickly dragged Kyle into a nearby empty room.]
...I've missed you so much, my Prince! I was hoping that you'd show up at least for the trade negotiations, but...
[She coo'd at him.]
[Kyle, in the meanwhile, had taken a deep breath.]
...Um...Lady Rillanne, it's just that...
- It's just that, what?
[Rillanne said, an exasperated tone in her voice - And that was when the music started up!]
[The blue girl really did have a good voice, if that was who was singing, Rillanne thought with a scowl. How annoying, to be shown up by a mere noble from the Blue Kingdom like that.]
[But first things first. Rillanne turned back toward Kyle, and put her hands on her hips.]
......Prince Kyle, surely you can't be serious about wanting to marry this "Princess Michella"? Why, she's barely Royalty! Nobody even heard of her until last year, when the Green Royal Family suddenly annouced that they'd had another princess after all!
- Ummmmm.
[Kyle groaned.]
...But...But I love her!
[Rillanne sighed at that.]
- But my Prince - We're Royalty, we can't just get married to whoever we want! We have to think of the good of our Kingdoms, right?
[Kyle stared at her, flummoxed.]
...Um...Uh...I suppose so? But Lady Rillanne -
[Rillanne smiled, then, a wicked look in her eyes.]
.......Prince Kyle, Prince Kyle, you're going about this all wrong. You should be thinking of getting her to be your mistress, not your wife!
[Kyle's mouth gaped open, then. This was not what he would have expected Rillanne of all people to say...]
[Rillanne herself, in the meanwhile, was on a roll.]
- Why don't you just get her married off to one of your nobles? The Greens wouldn't make too much of a fuss if you give them some trade deals, I think. And then, you can just keep her as long as you want, and toss her to her husband once you're bored with her...
[Rillanne chuckled to herself, then. She wasn't planning to leave the Green girl alive, no matter how things turned out - But Kyle didn't have to know that, of course. It would be easy enough to set up an "accident", right?]
[And in the meanwhile, a Kyubey was listening to their conversation, quietly. Rillanne's energies were whirling and whirling, streaked with black. Oh, if only he could get a better look at her Soul Gem right now...]
[meanwhile Oktavia had taken a deep breath, and held up her conductor's baton, and the concert began. She soon letherself slip into the music, full of feeling, the movements coming naturally. Finally the lyrics she was singing along in her mind escaped from her mouth into her voicce and accopanied the orchestra. Everyone was listening in with awe and appreciated. Such beautiful music this was, and her voice!] "Wow... [Ophelia murmured ] [She is wonderful!" [Gretchen beamed] But eventually the usic had to come to an end. They were greeted by cheers and applause. Oktavia blinked, a bit abashed, but feeling so proud, so she smiled and cutrsied. "ah that was so lovely!" "I herad Lady Von Seckendorf had written that concerto herslef!" "Ad she conducted, and sang along with it?" "Well she is certainly talented! What a treat from heer tonight!"
[Marianna, in the meanwhile, looked like she was about to choke.]
...Oh, oh, yes, Lady Oktavia - Your singing was just wonderful! Ha ha ha...
[She mumbled, with a clearly fake smile pasted on her face.]
[Oktavaia looked at Marianna, and tilted her head. Why was Lady Marianne's eyes glanzed over like that, anyway? She could almost see a big sweatdrop floating above her golden tresses for some reason...]
...Lady Marianna? Are you all right?
[Oktavia whispered, while Ophelia sighed, looking quite handsome in her mannish garb.]
- Lady Marianna just overheard something that made her brain turn into pudding for a bit, I'm afraid. Just go and let everybody tell you how wonderful you are for now, all right, Lady Okty?
[Oktavia quickly looked in the direction of the room Prince Kyle and Princess Rillanne had disappeared to, and a frown came over her face.]
...So what happened!? Tell me, tell me!
- We will later, I promise! So just go up and the stage again and take the bow, all right!?
[Ophelia said with a wink. Oktavia sighed at that, but then she nodded, and went back on the stage with a big grin. Lord Keylsie had come to the front of the stage too, his violin in his hands.]
...You were wonderful, Oktavia!
[He whispered, his eyes bright - And then, they bowed together, while the audience cheered them on.]
[Lady Marianna, in the meantime, was starting to come out of the dazed state.]
........Dear God, is my cousin actually starting to develop some kind of basic level political sense? I keep wondering if pigs will fly next or something!
[And then, she sighed a bit as she sipped the herb drink one of her maids had gotten her.]
- Well, she's as nasty as ever, naturally, and I don't think for a moment she's actually planning to just let the poor Green girl be Kyle's mistress, but - Well, that's one way to avoid a big war, that's for sure...
[And in the meanwhile, Rillanne had told Kyle she'd see him later, and was now in one of the smaller out of the way dressing rooms, looking into the big mirrors.]
...And now, all I have to do is to let Kyle stew for a while, while the idea of making that woman his mistress implants itself in his head. It wouldn't be long at all before he realizes that he really doesn't want to marry her after all, right, Len? Not when he could marry me, and enrich both our Kingdoms...
[The blond boy next to her sighed, then, as he expertly redid her hair. The two of them looked so alike in the mirror, even now...]
[Meanwhile, Oktavia continued to conduct a few more songs until the actual conducter was feeling well enough to pick it up again.] afterwards she was talking haippily with Kiesle , the fluttery feeling in her again. Oh this was great, maybe they would even get their first kiss tonight... But soon Lady Henrietta,(hitomi's precedessor] soon join them, and Oktavia noticed her arm placed over Kiesle's .. As their chat continued, certain news was dropped] "Oh right, we have almost forgotten with all the excitement. " [Henrietta chirped] "We have wonderful news! Lord Kiesle and I are engaged to be wed!" [Oktavia froze at her words, her heart dropping like a stone] "..what?" "That is right! The wedding is scheduled for next month!" "Oh, er, yes.. congratulations..." [though she could scarecely believe her ears, when had those two been so close anyway? She kept a fake smile on[] "Congratulations, Kiesle, Hettie. I am, so happy for you two..."
[Lord Kiesle, in the meanwhile, was staring at Hettie like she'd suddenly grew two heads!]
...Um, Lady Henrietta? I don't think that's something you should just joke about like that...
[He mumbled, sweatdropping. Hettie laughed, then, her hand to her mouth.]
- Ha ha ha! Oh, Oktavia, you should have seen your face right now... You looked like you'd just saw a dragon fly over the castle or something!
[And then, she smiled at Oktavia again, and wriggled her eyebrows.]
...No, no, we're not getting married next month - We haven't even gotten engaged yet, if fact!
[And then, she sighed a bit, and looked at Kiesle, snickering a bit.]
- Though, on the other hand - I'm quite sure my mother would be very happy indeed if we, um, ever showed an interest in one another, if you get what I mean?
[Kiesle groaned, then.]
...Please, Henrietta - Stop that, all right? It's scary enough that my mother and grandmother have started to look around for "good matches" for me, whatever that's supposed to mean...
[Oktavia, in the meanwhile, was blushing up a storm, her mouth hanging open.]
......Lady Henrietta! That's not funny!
[But then, Oktavia blinked as Kiesle's words sank into her mind. Wait, so his mother and grandmother had started to look for brides for him already? So that meant...]
[She got even redder as she realized that if she ever wanted a chance to actually get married to Kiesle, she was probably going to have to talk to her mother and maybe her aunt about it - And she had to do it soon, too, before all the other girls got added to the list Kiesle's mother and grandmother were no doubt creating right now.]
[Oh, my. So now what? Was this the sort of thing she could actually write in a letter?]
[Well she would have to send a letter considering her mother and aunt were never around. But surely they would approve her her idea to be wed to Keisle! Their families were close, he was of very high standing, and he and Oktavia were childhood freinds.. So yes, it should be fine..." Then the captain of the guard and Oktavia's idol Sir Bruce approached. ] "good evening Lady Von Seckendorf." "Ah, Sir Bruce!" [ Oktavia curtsied, giddy with more excitement] "May I talk to you for a moment?" "of course" [he led her outside] "Lady Oktavia, I must discuss with you about you becoming a knight." "yes? You said there was an open position, and that you were going to bring it up with the queen about a recomendation for me?" [her eyes glittered] "Ah, yes, I have. However.." [he shook his head, looking regretful] "the request was declined. I know you are skilled and just, and I believe you would make a fine knight. But the fact remains you are a lady, and a noble one at that.] [Oktavia's heart syunk at that]
...Oh, Sir Bruce - I wish I had been born in the Purple Kindgom sometimes, I really do. They even have a Lady General in that country, from what I've heard?
[Bruce snickered at that.]
- Oh, yes, they do indeed - And General Armstrong is the match of any General in the continent, I do believe.
[And then, he leaned over to her, whispering.]
- Did I ever told you I met her once, back when she was a pretending to be a man and calling herself "Oliver"? Oh, the stories I could tell...
[Oktavia looked at him, her eyes wide.]
...You...You did?
[Oktavia's eyes shined, then. So maybe that was part of the reason Sir Bruce had agreed to teach her the ways of the sword, when everybody else she'd asked had just laughed at her, and called her a silly tomboy behind her back...]
"Indeed. I shall tell you more about it." [He patted her shoulder] "I am sorry though. For now,you shall just have to remain the way you are..." [he gave her an apologetic smile and her left. after a bit Oktavia sulked out to where the ball extended outdoor among the lovely gardens, including a pond and stream thta was said to flow form the ocean. She was fairly miserable now] "...hey.. you ok?" [ophelia slank up next to her, looking concerned] "I, couln't help overhearin... sorry about that." [She sighed, and wiped a tear form Oktavia's eye] "hey. just forget bout it. those knight, they dont know what theyre missin! So, theres always mroe chances, youre lucky like that. So dont, let this get you down, ok?" [Oktavia sniffled, and nodded] "..all right..." [she managed to smile] " thank you, Ophelai. You are quite, cool.." "ya bet I am! So, wanna dance?" [Oktavia nodded again and they join in a waltz together.
As they danced over the small bridge over the pond, Rillianne brushed close with her dancing partner, just the right angle... and gave Oktavia a shove , toppling her down, her skirts snagging on the railing of the bridge and tearing off, and she landed with a splash into the water. There was some] laghter form the crowd at this, especially from Rillainne. "Oh my, you sure are clumsy,Lady Vond Sekenforf! And your poor dress!" "You! Why you_" [Oktavia, red with emabrarsement, started to stand up, but froze as a strange feeling came over her. A numbness, then pain, especially upon her legs, she whined and started to shake.] "Oktavia!" [Ophelia jumped down beside her, her disguise starting to slip] "Whats wrong! Shes in pain! someone call a doctor!! under the ripped parts of her skirts she could see her bloomers, but it seemed her legs started to twist at an odd angle. a few Sclaes started to emerge on Oktavia's shoulders and face, and what seems like fins growing on her wrists and over her ears, webbign ebtween her fingers "What the hell...." As Oktavia's pained screams intensiefied She tore the bloomers and stockings off. the colorful scales now fully covere Oktavia's legs, which were fusing togetehr and changing form a bit into one limb, her feet melding into fins. Her whole lower half was like that of a fish. Oktavia finally eased, the transformaiton complete. People were gasping horriifed at the transformaiton, a few even fainted. ]
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timeasmymeasure
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-11-04 02:00 am (UTC)[After the girls argued among themselves for a bit, they heard the bells ringing, signaling it was time to go home] "Bye bye, miss!" [they skipepd off, leaving Ophelia intrigued and confused]
[ The next morning, Homura was still concerened that she was still in the past when she woke up. Perhaps it meant the story was not over yet, there were still things she had to witness here. The next morning passed fairly uneventfully. After breakfats, Gretchen headed back to the inn to rejoin her parents, promising her friends she would rejoin later that day. Soon after that, Queen Verena and some of her young wards arrived for a visit. Homura joined the queen and Marianna for tea, while charlotte played with the girls and Oktavia , whose legs were feeling much better, was still out training with her sword. During idel gossip, Homura learned that the queen was an avid fan of theater and tended to quote sayings relating to it, and also she was in her 20s and her birthday was in a few days. In fact, her birthday happened to be on the night of Walpurghisnacht and considered an omen...
Finally Marianna turned the topic to what happened yesterday]
"by the way Lady Verena, something interesting happened yesterday, involving some of your girls. It seemed they are somehow involved with magic."
[The queen paused, her teaciup to her lips] "Oh?"
[Marianna nodded and described what happened, with the monsters attack and the girls suddenly as magical warriors. Verena sighed and shook her head]
"Yes. I am ware of this... Apparently, some of the girls have met a 'fariy' anf form a contract of sorts, and are granted a wish and magical powers. That is how Lucy had her dog revived, Myrta had her teeth fixed, Bridgette got prettier, among others. But in return, they batte these horrible monsters, these grief witches"
"Oh my... "
To be honest, I have mixed feelings about all of this. On one hand, it is very dangerous, they could get hurt, and you know how people are wary of magic. When I took them in, I swore I would protect them" She then gave a small smile "On the other hand, They are happy with these wishes and powers, and about the fact that they are defending people from these evils..."
[Homura listened with a hollow pit in her stomach. She knew what the results would be, the horrible truth.]
"I actually have met this 'fairy' myself' the queen continued "An odd little thing, resembled a white cat of sorts with strange red markings, and it could talk. You know what? It actually offered me the contract. It said that I had the greatest latent potential for the role."
"What did you say? Did you accept?"
"I told itI would think about it." [She looked down at her cup again ]"It would be enjoyable to battle alongside the girls, and to help defend against those monsters. But, I can not really think of something to wish for, anything I want or need more. I am happy. Besides, I am to busy with ruling this kingdom and taking care of it, I would not have time to add monster slaying. I know my girls could take care of it. ..."
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-11-05 06:16 am (UTC)(...Oh, we Incubators can and have made Contracts with older woman, and even male humans if they had enough potential. Niner usually ignores the ones who don't fit his ideal candidate profile list, though - It's just not worth the trouble, he says...)
[Eight said, and then sent a half transparent projection of himself inside Humility's mindspace, where Homura was.]
(But hey - Wasn't there something else you wanted to ask me?)
[Homura hummed at that.]
(...Oh, there's plenty of things I want to ask you, but for now...)
[Well, what she really wanted first was something that would let her heal Humility's heart properly, but - ]
(Oh, good, I have just the thing, then! I made it as an experiment, but I bet it'll be useful to you as well...)
[And then, he tossed something that looked like a small pretty eastern style tea cup with a lid on it her way, grinning.]
(It looks like a cup, but it's actually a magical energy storage device, if you know what I mean - Oh, yes, I see you do. It's empty now, so you can store your magical energies inside it, little by little. It should be useful if you want to heal that girl you're dwelling in for the moment, correct? I mean, she does seem to have a bad heart, so...)
[Homura grabbed the thing, and stared at it, then.]
(So how does this work?)
{Eight yawned, and licked his paw.]
(...You just should put your hand on it and will any spare magical energies you have to go inside, I think, and do it every day. I'm not sure how long it'll take to fill up, though - And I wouldn't try to do anything with that poor girl's heart unless it's filled to the brim, if I was in your shoes...)
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-11-10 06:05 am (UTC)"Homulily!" [Gretchen waved at her] "would you like to go watch Oktavia training with me?"
"Ah? Of course, Gretchen!" [Homura pocketed thw magical device and followed Gretchen to where Oktavia was out by the stables.
The bluenette herself, currently clad in a simpler , easier to move in dress and boots had been training with her sowrd, using some hay bales as targets. Lo and behold Ophelia turned up, , perched in a tree, watching her with a grin.]
"Pretty good technique there, Okty!"
"You!" [Oktavia faltered angrily, missing a step and falling into a pile of hay.
Ophelia chuckled and jumped down.] "Easy there! you can't just easily lose your guard at every distraction!"
"H-hush!" [Oktavia pouted, scrambling up, pieces of hay stuck in her hair] "What are you doing here, thief!"
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-11-13 04:01 am (UTC)[Ophelia said with a shrug. Oktavia stared at Ophelia for a moment, blinking.]
...It's the noble's job to...solve the problems common people can't? Huh, I never thought of it in exactly that way, but you're correct, I suppose.
[And then, she sighed a bit.]
- And yes, there are plenty of nobles who don't take care of the commonors in their estates at all, I'm afraid, but my family is not like that, and neither is Lady Marianna's family, and I don't think Lady Humility's family is like that either, whoever they actually are.
...So what happened?
[Ophelia sighed at that, and looked at Oktavia and Humility, and told them about what had happened when she met the strange girls with magical powers. Oktavia and Humility both blinked as she told them her story - Wait, so why was Lady Verenia's magic-using girls fighting each other before fighting the monster, anyway? And what was a "Grief Seed"?]
[Homura shuddered, , then, and took over Humility's body again before she quite realized what she was doing.]
- Ophelia - I do not think meeting that "fairy" is a good idea at all, even if any of them care over and offered to take you to him! Why would anybody grant Wishes for free, or give anybody magical powers for that matter?
[Oktavia's eyes widened at that.]
...But...But... Lady Verenia wouldn't let them make this Contract if anything bad would come of it, correct? I mean, she does appear to care about them a lot...
[Homura shook her, or rather Humility's, head at that.]
- Kyubey is just much too good at twisting the truth without lying outright. All he has to do is give people that cute empty smile and...and...
[Ooops? Homura put a hand to her mouth, dismayed, while Gretchen's eyes widened.]
...Lady Humility! So you mean you - you've met this fairy called Kyukyu before?
[Homura sighed, then, and ran her hand thought her - Humility's - hair. She then put her eyeglasses on her face, and looked into Gretchen's eyes, her expression stern/]
- Oh, yes I have, dearest Gretchen - And I tell you, he is a evil little thing who lies and lies and lies, even though he'll insist he never did such a thing at all!
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-11-13 04:48 am (UTC)[Before Homulily could come up with an explanation, some of the young wards, the ones who were magical girls, showed up]
"What are you saying, Aunt Homulily!" [The one name Bridgette cried]
Homura sighed] "listen child, you should not trust this creature. It is just using you, and cares not about your end fate or your feelings."
the girl fornwed further "...I don't believe you! Stop[ saying mean things about him! you're just jealous!"
"homulily...."[ Gretchen looked worried now. She had never really seen her dear Homulily being this, cold before...]
"What do you mean just using us? I don't understand?"" Brigitte said confused]
[an the little girl Nani glared up at Homura] "Not true!! you're just being mean! You'll see! I hope the witch monster gets you!" ] and with that homura noticed the familar tiny glim of negative darkness in her soul gem jewel, on a necklace in these days].
" Nini! How could you say that! Thats horrible!"[ Brigette scolded.]
"I dont care! I dont like her!!"
[Verena glided in, Marianna behind her.. they looked concerened] "Is somehtig the matter?"
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-11-19 05:28 am (UTC)...It's nothing, Lady Marianna.
[She said to Marianna with a sigh, and then turned toward Nini, and gave her Soul Gem a pointed look. She then leaned over to the girl and whispered - ]
- And I'd get that cleaned off as soon as possible if I was you, Miss. Have a good day.
[Homura walked off with a sigh, then, feeling a great deal like finding a place to cry it off. She stopped for a moment when she heard Gretchen quickly tell the other girls goodbye.]
...Miss Gretchen, please. You don't have to follow me about like this...
[Gretchen walked up to her, and gave her a pained smile, then.]
Lady Homu - Humility, please don't say that. You're - I know you're a noble and everything, and my family are just merchants, but...I...I...
[Homura rubbed her eyes, then.]
- Of course we're friends, Miss Gretchen. Rank doesn't matter as much as most people seem to think, I believe.
[Gretchen hugged Homura, then, tears in my eyes. Homura sighed, then, and hugged her back. She then found them a bench to sit on behind some bushes, away from prying eyes.]
...Miss Gretchen. Can you keep a secret? I want to tell you something, but - You can't tell anybody about it, not even Lady Marianna, or Lady Oktavia, or that red-head, or any of those girls in Lady Verenia's troop...
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-11-27 06:09 am (UTC)And then her own response came up on autopilot again, like it had before. That of her past self Homulily she was currently inhabiting]"Oh Gretchen, I do not know myself."[ she put a hand to her hand starting to feel woozy.] "Perhaps I am becoming ill, and starting to have delusions..."
"Oh poor Homulily! But, what were you going to tell me?)
[and form another bush, a pair of beady red and lavender eyes on a white and lavender furry face was watchign in inetrest
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-11-27 06:38 am (UTC)...Miss Gretchen! There's just one thing I want to tel you, all right?
[And then, she put a hand to her head.]
- If a white critter with red eyes ever offers you a Wish, and magical powers, and a mission to defeat monsters, and asks you to make a Contract with him - Just...just don't. He looks cute and harmless, but he lies and lies and...
[Homura almost crumpled over Gretchen, then.]
...Just...promise...
[Gretchen groaned, then, and quickly tried to hold her up.]
- Homulily - Oh, no! Please wake up, dearest Homulily!
[And a few moments later...It was Humility who woke up in Gretchen's arms.]
...Miss Gretchen. What...What happened?
[She mumbled, woozily.]
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-11-30 06:28 am (UTC)"do not strain yourself. Perhaps you should get some more rest then. you will need all the strength you can for tomorrow."
Humility just nodded and gave a reassuring smile to gretchen and put her hand on hers. Gretchen relaxed and smiled back and they went back tea as usual.
The next morning, Humility was feeling much better, though those memories still were blurred. After a nice breafast, and the ssuddenly extra luxurious bath she promised with gretchen, (this really was nice... inside homura was figeting again at Grentchen's touch). later in the day she was crying out in discomfort and gasping for breath.]
"Oh do calm down, Lady Humility! You're acting like you have never worn a corset before!" [The maid scolded as she tied the strings tightly "thoiugh this is your first real apperance at a ball, so it is a bit differentt then the usual style you are used to."
Hummility bit her lip and tried to relax and stood patiently as the maids drapped layer upon later of fine clothing upon her. Yes it was uncomfortable, but she could manage it. It was a ball, she was a lady, she knew she had to look her best. A while more of pinnig up her hair and applying make up and jewelry, then the final layer of dress, and she was finally done. Internally, she let out an awe as she saw her appearence in the mirror. Her dress was a shimmering silvery ball gown with purple trimming and ribbons, a choker with a diamon on it, a few small braid woven into her updo with a purple headbacd with some ribbons on it.
When she went over to meet the other girls, she was not surprised to see that Oktavia's blue ball gown had a ocean motif to it, with some deocor of seashells and some pinned in her hair and some layers frilled like waves. But her eyes widened when she saw Gretchen. Her ball gown was white and adorned with white feathers and pink and gold ribbons, some more pinned into her hair. How it matched perfeftly..
Gretchen giggled and skipepd over as best she couldin her heavy gown "Oh Houlily!! you look so beautiful!!"
Humility smiled "I think you look even more beautiful..."
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-12-01 07:05 am (UTC)[Gretchen said with a smile, remembering that she probably should use Humlity's real name for a formal occasion like this, even if she did love the nickname she'd given her.]
[And then, she started to walk next to Humility, toward the gardens.]
- Oh, Lady Humility, aren't those new corsets just awesome? They're just so much less constricting them the old ones!
[Gretchen said, grinning. Humility looked at her, then, her eyes widening comically.]
...New...corsets?
[Gretchen sweatdropped a bit, then.]
- Oh! Um, my famiily gave me some of the new style corsets that are all the rage at the Capital now, and, um -
[Aand that was when Marianna and Charlotte came up from behind them, grinning!]
...Oh, my. I've heard of those new corsets, but - Miss Gretchen, I'll appreciate it so much if you'd let us try them on later!
[Marianna said with a genuine smile.]
Why, yes, of course, Lady Marianna! My family gave me about 15 of them with different sizes, so...
[Gretchen said with a flustered smile.]
They're really so much easier to move around in, and they don't squeeze you as half as much as the old ones, I think...
[And that was when Humility put her hand to her chest, grimancing. Oh, no - Of all the times for her heart pains to come back...]
[Gretchen, Marianna and Charlotte all looked at her, looking very worried indeed.]
- Does your chest hurt again, Lady Humility?
[Charlotte said, and patted Humility's arm while Marianna and Gretchen found her a bench to sit on.]
...Lady Humility. Do you want to go back to your room?
[Gretchen said, while Marianna groaned. Lady Humility really should be attending this ball if it was at all possible, politically speaking, she was pretty sure...Especially if "Lady Verenia" was attending too.]
[And that was when an idea struck her.]
- Lady Humility! Why don't you go back to your room for now, and rest a little, and then try to get dressed again, this time with the new style corsets Miss Gretchen has brought us, so you can come back to the ball later? Corsets that are easier to move around would be better in general in your case, I think...
...That...would probably be a good idea. Thank you, Lady Marianna.
[Humility wheezed, and then looked at Gretchen.]
- Miss Gretchen - I would appreciate it so much if you could help me to my room, and get the new corsets...
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-12-03 06:08 am (UTC)"All right." [As they left, Oktavia was cheerful and excited] "Lord Kiesly will be there! And I think Sir Bruno, the captain of the guard! and I have news, I heard my new concerto that I wrote shall be played tobnight!!"
[The maids were annoyed to have to undo , change the corset, and then redo all of the layers of Homulily's gown. It was worth it though since Homulily felt better now with the other corset. After a warm cup of tea, they were off to the ball!
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-12-04 06:53 am (UTC)[Humility said with a smile.]
Thank you so much!
[Gretchen blushed a bit at that.]
Ahh, it was nothing, Lady Humility - And I'm so glad you're looking better now...
[Gretchen stopped a bit, then, as they almost reached the ballroom proper.]
...Lady Humility? There was something I wanted to ask you...
[Humility smiled at her, warmly.]
- You can ask me anything, Miss Gretchen!
[Gretchen gulped a little, then.]
...I...I'm not sure if it was even real or not, it might have been just a dream...but...
[And then, she took a deep breath.]
- What would you say if I had a dream, and in that dream, a very cute red eyed white bunnycat thing asked me if I wanted to be a hero? I mean, I mean, I wouldn't even have mentioned it if you hadn't told me about cute but evil creatures who lied a lot...
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-12-07 06:05 am (UTC)"I am sorry,. We may have to discuss this later after the ball."
[Homura nodded, realziiging this meant something is Gretchen could dream about Kyubey...Dear sweet gretchen, she really didn't want to worry her. So she would just try to control this problem for the time being. Here they were at the ball tonight, to have fun.
The night was progressing fairly well so far. hidden inside Humility, Homura saw various other characters from her current story, such as Hitomi's past self, and some of the still human selves of the witches, such as Gertrude.
Queen Verena was there, wearing a maginicifence blue and violet dress. She had arrived separetly as she had some royal business to take care of.
crown prince Kyle of the blue kingdo arrived. He was a very handome blue haired young man and ladies fawned over him. Oktavia on the other hand seemed more itnerested in talking with the knight who accompanied him. Apparently he was captain of the guard for the blue army.
Homura also caught sight of a handsome young 'gentleman' in a polished red coat and tricorn hat and and tucked back red hair milling about the buffet table, and expertly slipping off valuables from unknowing nobles...]
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-12-11 08:38 am (UTC)...Miss Gretchen? I'm a bit tired, I'm afraid...Could we find someplace we could rest for a couple of minutes?
[Gretchen nodded, and took her to an alvove at the corner in the room. Marianna and Charlotte were resting on one of the stools on there already, while some of the other maids rushed about, adjusting their ribbons and things.]
[Marianna put her finger to her lips as soon as she saw Humility and Gretchen come into the alcove. Humility and Gretchen put their own fingers to their lips, too, and nodded back with a grin - They didn't want anybody they didn't know to catch them when they were trying to take a break, after all,]
[And that was when the Prince Kyle wandered over to near the alcove, looking at a letter in his hand and talking softly to himself.]
...All right, so now I've even gotten my grandmother on my side, ha ha ha - I mean, I've always felt sorry for poor Princess Rillanne, but whether I want to marry her is a different matter entirely! And once I marry my dearest Michelle, our ties with the Green Kingdom are going to be so much stronger...
[The young handsome noble walking next to him sighed at that, then.]
- Your Highness. I mean, I'm sure Princess Michelle is a lovely lady, but politically speaking -
[Kyle humphed, then, and rubbed his eyes, looking a bit drunk.]
......Politically speaking, I can't think of a worse disaster then being forced to marry somebody who's actually called "the Princess of Evil" by her own people, to be honest. I mean, I don't really believe she could be as bad as all the stories say, but still.
[Marianna almost went cross-eyed on her stool, then. No, wait, she could fully understand somebody not wanted to marry her cousin Rillane, but still - Ugh, she didn't even want to imagine how Rillane would take the news! Did this Prince Kyle want to cause a war or what?]
[...Well, OK, it wasn't like Prince Kyle and Rillanne were officially engaged yet, but the negotiations had been going on for years and years already! If they'd been just plain nobles and not Royalty, they would have been considered "pre-engaged" already at this point, so...]
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-12-15 06:03 am (UTC)Oktavia was glowering at the gold princess] "Just what is she doing here!"
"Um, she is royalty after all, of course she would be here," [Gretcheb said, looking nervous. The redhead seemed even more furious at Rilliann'e arrival and took all it could to restrian themselves from killing her on the spot.Of course rillianne had made many enemies...
Marinna seemed upst as well, butt kept calm ]"let us pay her no attentopn and keep enjoying the night."
Okavia sighed and noded "yes, you aare rught..."
[the next bit seemed to pass without any incident. Eventually the redhead approached Oktavia and bowed] "May I have this dance, my lady?"
"Hm, yes, you may."
[And the two stepped gracefulyl on the dance floor and began their waltz. As they danced, Oktavia tutted] "so then, thief. I can guess what you are doing here."
[Ophelia smirked ]"Why enjoying the food and company of course! "
"And robbery."
"fine, maybe a bit of heist planned, some particular personal details."
"I could call th guards right here and now."
"And yet you didnt. Youre havin too much fun with me."
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-12-15 10:23 am (UTC)[Oktavia huffed at that.]
...Ha ha ha, very funny.
[And then, she looked at Ophelia, grinning, and whispered - ]
- You do look good in men's garb, though, I do admit!
[And that was when Rillanne started to move in a very purposeful way, rudely pushing people our of her way! Okvatia and Ophelia looked at each other, and slowly left the dance floor, following her at a distance...
[Aand that was when Prince Kyle came popping out of a nearby corridor! He gasped as he saw Rilanne heading toward him, doing a good imitation of a deer confronting a magical light.]
...Prince Kyle! Oh, Prince Kyle! I'm so happy I was able to catch up with you here...
[Kyle swallowed. Why was she even here!? Royals weren't supposed to just turn up out of the blue like this, right!?!?]
- I...Lady Rillanne...Um...
[Rillanne simply glomped him where he stood, a fake sweet smile plastered on her face.]
...I can't wait until those stupid negotiations are all finished, and we're finally officially engaged, Prince Kyle...
[And then, she smiled up at him happily, wondering if he'd actually dare to mention that - that Green thing that she'd been hearing about, right in the open. Well, she didn't really think he'd dare, Prince Kyle wasn't very smart but he did know better then to commit political suicide like that, she was pretty sure...]
[Kyle, Kyle, Kyle. Well, it wasn't like she loved him for his brains, right? She'd set things right with that Green bimbo soon enough, and then, things would be peachy indeed.]
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-12-16 06:50 am (UTC)"If they think Im gonna bow to that evil brat, they are so wrong...
""I would have to agree with you on that. " Oktavia murmured darkly)
eventually Oktavia let out a small cry of delight upon seeing a handosome dainty boy with dust colored hair. "Lord Kiesle!"
Ophelia watched As she headed over and started talking with him. Why, was that a pang of disapointment at this..?
The some of the members of the orchestra soon approached Oktavia. Lord Kiesle was going to play the violin for a few songs among them, including the concerto Oktvia had writtn, muxh to her honor.)
"Lady Von Seckendorf! We ar about to play your concerto next, but our conductor had just sprained his wrist and needs a break. So we were wondering, if you could perform the conduction in his place for your concerto? Perhaps even sing in fact? We heard you were quite good..."
(Her eyes widened ")What? Really?"
(Gretchen giggled) "Oh Oktavia! What an honor!"
"Y-yess," she glanced over at kiesle, blushing) "I would lov to! I mean, I accept!"
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-12-16 08:46 am (UTC)[...But on the other hand, maybe this was a good chance to have a talk with Prince Kyle without everybody and their dog looking on. Rillanne looked around them, and then quickly dragged Kyle into a nearby empty room.]
...I've missed you so much, my Prince! I was hoping that you'd show up at least for the trade negotiations, but...
[She coo'd at him.]
[Kyle, in the meanwhile, had taken a deep breath.]
...Um...Lady Rillanne, it's just that...
- It's just that, what?
[Rillanne said, an exasperated tone in her voice - And that was when the music started up!]
[The blue girl really did have a good voice, if that was who was singing, Rillanne thought with a scowl. How annoying, to be shown up by a mere noble from the Blue Kingdom like that.]
[But first things first. Rillanne turned back toward Kyle, and put her hands on her hips.]
......Prince Kyle, surely you can't be serious about wanting to marry this "Princess Michella"? Why, she's barely Royalty! Nobody even heard of her until last year, when the Green Royal Family suddenly annouced that they'd had another princess after all!
- Ummmmm.
[Kyle groaned.]
...But...But I love her!
[Rillanne sighed at that.]
- But my Prince - We're Royalty, we can't just get married to whoever we want! We have to think of the good of our Kingdoms, right?
[Kyle stared at her, flummoxed.]
...Um...Uh...I suppose so? But Lady Rillanne -
[Rillanne smiled, then, a wicked look in her eyes.]
.......Prince Kyle, Prince Kyle, you're going about this all wrong. You should be thinking of getting her to be your mistress, not your wife!
[Kyle's mouth gaped open, then. This was not what he would have expected Rillanne of all people to say...]
[Rillanne herself, in the meanwhile, was on a roll.]
- Why don't you just get her married off to one of your nobles? The Greens wouldn't make too much of a fuss if you give them some trade deals, I think. And then, you can just keep her as long as you want, and toss her to her husband once you're bored with her...
[Rillanne chuckled to herself, then. She wasn't planning to leave the Green girl alive, no matter how things turned out - But Kyle didn't have to know that, of course. It would be easy enough to set up an "accident", right?]
[And in the meanwhile, a Kyubey was listening to their conversation, quietly. Rillanne's energies were whirling and whirling, streaked with black. Oh, if only he could get a better look at her Soul Gem right now...]
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-12-18 05:57 am (UTC)Everyone was listening in with awe and appreciated. Such beautiful music this was, and her voice!]
"Wow... [Ophelia murmured ]
[She is wonderful!" [Gretchen beamed]
But eventually the usic had to come to an end. They were greeted by cheers and applause. Oktavia blinked, a bit abashed, but feeling so proud, so she smiled and cutrsied.
"ah that was so lovely!"
"I herad Lady Von Seckendorf had written that concerto herslef!"
"Ad she conducted, and sang along with it?"
"Well she is certainly talented! What a treat from heer tonight!"
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-12-21 09:04 am (UTC)...Oh, oh, yes, Lady Oktavia - Your singing was just wonderful! Ha ha ha...
[She mumbled, with a clearly fake smile pasted on her face.]
[Oktavaia looked at Marianna, and tilted her head. Why was Lady Marianne's eyes glanzed over like that, anyway? She could almost see a big sweatdrop floating above her golden tresses for some reason...]
...Lady Marianna? Are you all right?
[Oktavia whispered, while Ophelia sighed, looking quite handsome in her mannish garb.]
- Lady Marianna just overheard something that made her brain turn into pudding for a bit, I'm afraid. Just go and let everybody tell you how wonderful you are for now, all right, Lady Okty?
[Oktavia quickly looked in the direction of the room Prince Kyle and Princess Rillanne had disappeared to, and a frown came over her face.]
...So what happened!? Tell me, tell me!
- We will later, I promise! So just go up and the stage again and take the bow, all right!?
[Ophelia said with a wink. Oktavia sighed at that, but then she nodded, and went back on the stage with a big grin. Lord Keylsie had come to the front of the stage too, his violin in his hands.]
...You were wonderful, Oktavia!
[He whispered, his eyes bright - And then, they bowed together, while the audience cheered them on.]
[Lady Marianna, in the meantime, was starting to come out of the dazed state.]
........Dear God, is my cousin actually starting to develop some kind of basic level political sense? I keep wondering if pigs will fly next or something!
[And then, she sighed a bit as she sipped the herb drink one of her maids had gotten her.]
- Well, she's as nasty as ever, naturally, and I don't think for a moment she's actually planning to just let the poor Green girl be Kyle's mistress, but - Well, that's one way to avoid a big war, that's for sure...
[And in the meanwhile, Rillanne had told Kyle she'd see him later, and was now in one of the smaller out of the way dressing rooms, looking into the big mirrors.]
...And now, all I have to do is to let Kyle stew for a while, while the idea of making that woman his mistress implants itself in his head. It wouldn't be long at all before he realizes that he really doesn't want to marry her after all, right, Len? Not when he could marry me, and enrich both our Kingdoms...
[The blond boy next to her sighed, then, as he expertly redid her hair. The two of them looked so alike in the mirror, even now...]
- I do hope you're right, Rin. Truly.
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-12-22 06:38 am (UTC)afterwards she was talking haippily with Kiesle , the fluttery feeling in her again. Oh this was great, maybe they would even get their first kiss tonight...
But soon Lady Henrietta,(hitomi's precedessor] soon join them, and Oktavia noticed her arm placed over Kiesle's .. As their chat continued, certain news was dropped]
"Oh right, we have almost forgotten with all the excitement. " [Henrietta chirped] "We have wonderful news! Lord Kiesle and I are engaged to be wed!"
[Oktavia froze at her words, her heart dropping like a stone] "..what?"
"That is right! The wedding is scheduled for next month!"
"Oh, er, yes.. congratulations..." [though she could scarecely believe her ears, when had those two been so close anyway? She kept a fake smile on[] "Congratulations, Kiesle, Hettie. I am, so happy for you two..."
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-12-27 05:23 pm (UTC)...Um, Lady Henrietta? I don't think that's something you should just joke about like that...
[He mumbled, sweatdropping. Hettie laughed, then, her hand to her mouth.]
- Ha ha ha! Oh, Oktavia, you should have seen your face right now... You looked like you'd just saw a dragon fly over the castle or something!
[And then, she smiled at Oktavia again, and wriggled her eyebrows.]
...No, no, we're not getting married next month - We haven't even gotten engaged yet, if fact!
[And then, she sighed a bit, and looked at Kiesle, snickering a bit.]
- Though, on the other hand - I'm quite sure my mother would be very happy indeed if we, um, ever showed an interest in one another, if you get what I mean?
[Kiesle groaned, then.]
...Please, Henrietta - Stop that, all right? It's scary enough that my mother and grandmother have started to look around for "good matches" for me, whatever that's supposed to mean...
[Oktavia, in the meanwhile, was blushing up a storm, her mouth hanging open.]
......Lady Henrietta! That's not funny!
[But then, Oktavia blinked as Kiesle's words sank into her mind. Wait, so his mother and grandmother had started to look for brides for him already? So that meant...]
[She got even redder as she realized that if she ever wanted a chance to actually get married to Kiesle, she was probably going to have to talk to her mother and maybe her aunt about it - And she had to do it soon, too, before all the other girls got added to the list Kiesle's mother and grandmother were no doubt creating right now.]
[Oh, my. So now what? Was this the sort of thing she could actually write in a letter?]
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2016-12-28 05:12 am (UTC)Then the captain of the guard and Oktavia's idol Sir Bruce approached. ] "good evening Lady Von Seckendorf."
"Ah, Sir Bruce!" [ Oktavia curtsied, giddy with more excitement]
"May I talk to you for a moment?"
"of course"
[he led her outside] "Lady Oktavia, I must discuss with you about you becoming a knight."
"yes? You said there was an open position, and that you were going to bring it up with the queen about a recomendation for me?" [her eyes glittered]
"Ah, yes, I have. However.." [he shook his head, looking regretful] "the request was declined. I know you are skilled and just, and I believe you would make a fine knight. But the fact remains you are a lady, and a noble one at that.]
[Oktavia's heart syunk at that]
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2017-01-02 01:46 pm (UTC)...Oh, Sir Bruce - I wish I had been born in the Purple Kindgom sometimes, I really do. They even have a Lady General in that country, from what I've heard?
[Bruce snickered at that.]
- Oh, yes, they do indeed - And General Armstrong is the match of any General in the continent, I do believe.
[And then, he leaned over to her, whispering.]
- Did I ever told you I met her once, back when she was a pretending to be a man and calling herself "Oliver"? Oh, the stories I could tell...
[Oktavia looked at him, her eyes wide.]
...You...You did?
[Oktavia's eyes shined, then. So maybe that was part of the reason Sir Bruce had agreed to teach her the ways of the sword, when everybody else she'd asked had just laughed at her, and called her a silly tomboy behind her back...]
Re: Re: Homura's timeloop glitch plot!
Date: 2017-01-04 04:52 am (UTC)"...hey.. you ok?" [ophelia slank up next to her, looking concerned] "I, couln't help overhearin... sorry about that." [She sighed, and wiped a tear form Oktavia's eye] "hey. just forget bout it. those knight, they dont know what theyre missin! So, theres always mroe chances, youre lucky like that. So dont, let this get you down, ok?"
[Oktavia sniffled, and nodded] "..all right..." [she managed to smile] " thank you, Ophelai. You are quite, cool.."
"ya bet I am! So, wanna dance?"
[Oktavia nodded again and they join in a waltz together.
As they danced over the small bridge over the pond, Rillianne brushed close with her dancing partner, just the right angle... and gave Oktavia a shove , toppling her down, her skirts snagging on the railing of the bridge and tearing off, and she landed with a splash into the water. There was some] laghter form the crowd at this, especially from Rillainne.
"Oh my, you sure are clumsy,Lady Vond Sekenforf! And your poor dress!"
"You! Why you_" [Oktavia, red with emabrarsement, started to stand up, but froze as a strange feeling came over her. A numbness, then pain, especially upon her legs, she whined and started to shake.]
"Oktavia!" [Ophelia jumped down beside her, her disguise starting to slip] "Whats wrong! Shes in pain! someone call a doctor!!
under the ripped parts of her skirts she could see her bloomers, but it seemed her legs started to twist at an odd angle. a few Sclaes started to emerge on Oktavia's shoulders and face, and what seems like fins growing on her wrists and over her ears, webbign ebtween her fingers "What the hell...." As Oktavia's pained screams intensiefied She tore the bloomers and stockings off. the colorful scales now fully covere Oktavia's legs, which were fusing togetehr and changing form a bit into one limb, her feet melding into fins. Her whole lower half was like that of a fish. Oktavia finally eased, the transformaiton complete.
People were gasping horriifed at the transformaiton, a few even fainted.
]