Your fight against Infinite didn't go as expected. You've now seen what the false Chaos Emeralds are capable of and how their powers can be used by someone accustomed to that power. Though Infinite is no longer a threat, Eggman certainly is - and you're in no position to return to Chicago to try to take him down right now.
Focus on recovering and regrouping; you're going to need a plan to oppose Eggman from here on out.
THE VOID
Maybe you've grown complacent over your time in Chicago. You won't be seeing the city this week. Tails is adamant that it isn't safe to go back and insists that you remain here, within the Void between worlds. It is a still, silent abyss of nothingness, broken up only by gemstone-like shards that serve as platforms or obstacles, with very little else to see.
Gravity doesn't work properly within the Void, meaning you can float and even zip around at high speeds once you've figured out how it works. You can also stick yourself to shards no matter what angle you're at, resulting in walking upside down or otherwise getting stuck to one without being able to escape. Thankfully, this wonky gravity only applies to the Void itself, and you'll naturally come to master it as you spend more time here.
There are some shards that are shaped differently from the ones you can use as platforms, however. These are almost hexagonal, with a dark center that may flicker whenever you approach one. If you're lucky, the surface will flicker like water and show you images of another world - usually you will see Chicago and the robots rampaging through the city streets - but occasionally you may see glimpses of your home world or of other worlds. No matter what you do, you cannot interact with these visions. Since they do seem to be water, punching them will do no good; your hand won't even get wet, as it will go through and dispel the image entirely.
Settle in, it seems like you'll be here for awhile. Oh, and try to ignore that unnerving feeling of being watched - there's no escaping it when you're in the Void, after all.
RINGS
There is one bright spot in being stuck within the Void, and that's that your colorful little pals have rings. If you've been diligent about collecting them from whatever ridiculous places they've ended up in, you may even have a good amount! Though it will take a day or so for the rings to actually work, as the week goes on, you'll be able to world hop to your heart's content.
Which yes, means you could absolutely go home. Be mindful of your mission and just how long you spend there, because you will need to return eventually, right? Though time may work differently in the Void, it mostly works the same between worlds. Try not to spend more than a week back home.
But there is something a bit strange about world hopping; you can't really control where or when you'll end up.
You may arrive back in your home world at the wrong point in time entirely, either in the past or the future. You may end up in an alternate reality of your world (canon AU or fanmade AU) or you may even end up in someone else's world entirely! You all aren't used to using rings just yet, so it makes sense that there's some confusion.
Two of you attempting to use a ring together will have more success... but even then, failures can still happen and you can still be sent to the wrong places.
You may visit any world to exist except any Sonic worlds. Worlds where Sonic shows up as a cameo (Super Smash Bros, for example) are fine. Which yes, means I am barring you from visiting Sonic Underground, you'll have to forgive me.
SHARDS
Though you're stronger now than ever before, your power pales in comparison to Infinite's, let alone Eggman's. You're going to need to be much, much stronger if you want to stand a chance of fighting back. Maybe it would be worth it to visit a world full of monsters to practice using your shards.
As you fight with your allies - particularly those you have a close bond with, positive or negative - you may feel the tug of something in the back of your head; it tells you that you can do more. Together, you can become more powerful. You can use your shards together. Doing so will grant you a new power, or strengthen the one you already have. The more you trust one another, the easier this power will be to use.
It might be good to experiment with these new powers; after all, you never know when you may need them.
TAILS' TASKS
Rings can only be found in certain worlds, which means your worlds are safe from them. This does mean there are only a limited number of rings, however... so please keep this in mind when world hopping! This week, Tails does not have any tasks for you aside from continuing to train and develop your shard powers. Oh, and to stay safe, of course. Please don't get yourselves killed in some other world.
ENEMIES
Surprisingly, you will encounter none of Eggman's robots this week. The Void remains still and silent for the whole week and your worlds are free from Eggman's influence. You're welcome to beat up any enemies native to your own worlds, of course.
[stop perceiving her over there!!! but please continue to call her hot, her ego absolutely delights in it--]
I think for right now, I'd love to simply stay in Dahngrest; I don't think I could ever tire of a place like this, all be told. Perhaps when our battle is done, you'll both have to show me all that it has to offer. [Another treat down the hatch and she is absolutely in heaven right now.] But I do find it quite interesting, truly. It seems no matter the world, the people will create their own means of helping one another when the higher powers will not. It's very...consistent, I think is the word I want to use; very positively so. Even if they may squabble, it is nice to hear of people coming together to take care of one another.
[It's not something she's used to, really. They both at least know a bit about her own world and how cruel and selfish it can be, but seeing a place like this...it's a little more than overwhelming. Still, she chuckles at Raven a bit, nodding in agreement.]
Oh, they'd have our heads, at minimum. I've already promised Tails I wouldn't scare him again, so we should save that kind of talk for when our battle is won, hm? Something more to look forward to, for all of us.
[Dorothy's gonna take another swig of her drink, at least, but...]
How...curious. What exactly is the Manor of the Wicked, if you don't mind my asking? [She turns to Yeager when she asks that, but she looks to Raven too.] I would not mind a tour myself, but it sounds as if there's history there...
Then we can come back and show you more of Terca Lumireis when our battle is won. A suitable compromise, ja?
[She certainly likes it a lot more than he thought she would, which is nice, but... Well, better not to think about it. There's still the whole confrontation with Eggman they'll have to deal with, after all.
As for that question...]
Why, it's my manor, of course. [of course.] It is located outside of town, some ways away, because I was banished from the city for crimes I certainly didn't commit.
[...He would have left it at that if it was just Dorothy here, but... well, there's no avoiding that this is an awkward topic with Raven, so he does at least offer an almost apologetic smile.]
Though I will freely admit that my guild is better suited to be stationed outside of Dahngrest despite being part of the Union.
Well ya know I've got no complaints about a deal like that.
[Who knows, maybe Dorothy will find herself so smitten with the place that she'll want to stay! He'd...really like that, actually. But he continues to keep quiet about that subject for now.
On the topic of the Manor of the Wicked, he lets out a snort about Yeager's banishment.]
Oh, yeah, you're totally innocent. [He can deal with this sort of banter without it getting too awkward.] Leviathan's Claw has been a thorn in the Union's side for a while. S'why the Don doesn't want 'em around Dahngrest.
[He downs the rest of his glass. Ah, he really is speedrunning this.]
Dunno how much Yeager's told ya, Dorothy, but me an' him barely even talked much before all this, and that's why.
Obviously my feelings about him have changed, but yeah. History.
Nor do I. But if you both keep that up, I might...
[Honestly, the more Dorothy thinks about it...the less she wants to leave this place. This place is warm, comfortable, and the people here don't look at her like she's unusual. She feels...normal, here, almost. There's a sense of freedom in this beautiful, sunset colored town, where the air feels lively and free, and it sees Dorothy going quiet. ...And draining her drink down a bit more, there goes any sense of not overdoing it, let's just move on--
...And what a move on it certainly is. Dorothy definitely eyes Yeager from next to her, but she thankfully doesn't comment and elects to put another, new bit of food in her mouth. She'll never get tired of this much at least!!]
Yeager has certainly implied he's something of a troublemaker for all involved, but truth be told, I haven't asked too much. When we first met, I was interested in seeing if it may be possible for Blastia to be used in the repelling of Raptures for Eden, so I did learn a little of what business that Leviathan's Claw is involved in, though not a whole lot. But I suppose I cannot say I'm entirely surprised...
[It's almost a little affectionate. Don't worry about it. And don't worry about the fact that she is absolutely not bringing up how much they got their issues all over each other, that can stay quiet--]
But I believe I can understand what you mean, Raven. It certainly sounds like there's quite a bit of history between the two of you.
[But she can sort of sense this might be a little awkward, so maybe let's veer back a bit into something general--]
Will you tell us more about it, Yeager? Did you build the manor yourself, or was it simply something you found and made use of?
[He glances over when Dorothy trails off, but elects not to press her on it. For now, anyway; if something is truly troubling her, he trusts she'll bring it up. Give him a moment to drain his glass and get a refill.]
I think I may have neglected to mention that Leviathan's Claw is no mere mercenary guild - we're the assassins' guild. Dealing in blastia was my own personal business, something I took up as a hobby - and for profit, of course.
Why, I even ran a second guild for a time posing as another person just to see how much I could get away with! So Raven is right, I caused quite a bit of trouble for the Union on my own, let alone with the entire guild.
[But he'll leave it at that; he'd rather not think too much about the Don right now.]
As for the manor... I did have it constructed to my specifications. Most members of Leviathan's Claw simply don't have a life outside of the guild work, so it needed to be large enough to house the majority of them and needed to retain my own unique flair.
I suppose I've grown rather fond of it.
[...He actually kind of misses it, strangely enough.]
[Honestly, Dorothy, at this point even Raven's started to put an affectionate spin on Yeager's shenanigans so he gets it. Even so, it doesn't distract from Leviathan's Claw's more serious transgressions that he's still working through his feelings on. He doesn't voice it aloud because this isn't the time or the place, but...they're unfortunately on his mind right now.
At least Yeager brings up Ruin's Gate so he can latch onto being comically annoyed about it. He lets out a groan and rolls his eyes. He definitely needs to drink more about that.]
I still can't believe I never connected the dots on Regaey...
[He has another comment from the peanut gallery about the Manor.]
"Unique flair" sure is a way ta put it. Wait 'til ya get a load of the decorations in there, Dorothy.
[Dorothy will finish off her own drink for the moment while she listens to them both, her lips quirking just the slightest bit.]
Ah. That certainly explains the story of one of your employees who you fired.
[We definitely need another round of drinks at this rate, but Dorothy doesn't seem to judge, at least? Like, what was Inherit if not something like that...]
But I do understand that, at least; that was much the case for my fellow members of Inherit, as well. [So like. She gets it.] It certainly sounds like an interesting place, but truly...Raven, what on earth did you end up seeing there?
[...
(roll perception: 2)]
And...what is there to connect about Regaey? [you can probably practically hear the gears turning in her mind] I assume it was some sort of disguise, but...
I have no idea what he's talking about, the manor's décor is fantastic.
[Between the goth exterior, the giant portrait of himself, and the fact that he decided to decorate his room with weapons and only weapons... yeah, no, Raven's clearly the one without taste here.
Anyway. Dorothy's lack of perception is clearly the most delightful thing he's seen in awhile, given the smug look.]
Oh, you aren't the only one who missed it, Dorothy. Why, I went for years before anyone made the connection.
[And then, with the exact same expression, without a second of hesitation, he drops the accent and continues on in the Regaey voice:]
A-As it t-t-turns out, I h-happen t-to be quite the con... convincing actor. I-Isn't that r-ri-right, R-Raven?
[Dorothy needs to see the garish glory that is Yeager's sense of interior design.
As if Raven wasn't already grumbling while Yeager explained how long the Regaey thing went on for. Now the Regaey voice is out and he's just making this face before taking a huge sip of wine.
[Okay, Dorothy was fine for a bit to leave it at that, but then Yeager fucking opens his mouth as he does and he...
...
Dorothy outright groans and attempts to put a hand over Yeager's mouth. (13)]
Yeager. Please never speak like that again, convincing as it is.
[Dorothy looks sympathetically over to Raven.]
We should call for another round, Sir Raven. I think we're going to need it. [whether or not she succeeds at shutting yeager up, she'll let him go afterward--] How did you not expire on the spot having to stutter like that?
[He's looking way too damn pleased with himself when Dorothy reaches up to stop him, and he half-heartedly bats her hand away. Come on, don't ruin his fun!!!]
Oh come now, don't I deserve at least a little credit for my masterful performance~?
[...he is getting his drink taken away at this rate, give him a moment to snatch it before anyone else can!!]
It certainly wasn't easy. But it was well worth it simply for your reactions~
I understand all too well the suffering you've endured, Raven.
[But she won't let her touch linger for too long, let her withdraw and focus on the bar food again. At least that won't disappoint her!!]
Credit where it is due, however, I certainly wouldn't have guessed you could do something like that. I should have expected it from you quoting that awful movie, however...
[Still...]
It does sound like you'll both be quite busy once all is said and done, however. [...] Will...either of you need any help with anything in the future, you think?
[She doesn't know if Yeager intends to go back, but part of her has a feeling that this'll be where they both go. And...maybe in a way...
It's an opaque way of asking if they'll need her once this battle is done.
(If she'll be necessary somewhere else, if she doesn't have to consider what a life without fighting will be like.)]
[But it was also a great excuse to not think, so...
Anyway, Dorothy moves on and Yeager takes a long sip from his drink as he thinks about it.]
Assuming you mean after the Commandant is no longer a threat... [...Well.] I intend to return to leading Leviathan's Claw.
[He glances over at Raven at that, head inclined a bit as he continues.]
Though I intend to lay low for the time being. We don't need to cause any more problems with the guilds right now.
[There's no atoning for what he did. There's no making up for it. But he can at least acknowledge that there's no need to continue being so aggro in his usual methods with Alexei out of the picture.
But... He glances back at Dorothy.]
Are you worried that we wouldn't want you to come visit?
[Whoa, why did the conversation get so serious all of the sudden? Looks like there really is no escaping this topic tonight... But better now than never.
Raven eases into a smile and piggybacks off of Yeager's question.]
Well, ya definitely don't gotta worry about that. We wouldn't be jumpin' ta show ya this place if we didn't want ya ta spend time with us here.
[If Dorothy decides to remain in Chicago for real, then she's still welcome in Terca Lumireis anytime as far as Raven's concerned.]
At first I wasn't sure what my plans were gonna be after our mission's over. I didn't think I could come back here because of how entangled I am with Alexei. But Yeager let me in on the plan and after some thinkin', I wanna come back if I can. I gotta help get things settled at the Union, and then maybe I'll do some more travelin' with Brave Vesperia.
Oh, and I guess I'll have some guy at the Manor of the Wicked ta bother too.
[That might make him sound busy, and he does like to keep himself busy, but he'd always make room for Dorothy.]
No, no, it's not that in the slightest. I figure it would have been made obvious if it was in jest much longer ago.
[...]
In truth, I...don't actually know what I intend to do with myself, once all is said and done. If we truly do manage to beat that Doctor, I have no intention of going back to my own world, as I'm sure is likely obvious. But it...will be the first time ever, truly, that I've lived in a world without any pressing war or the like.
...I suppose what I wanted to ask in truth, is if there might be any way I can assist either of you further in your tasks. Given the state of what you have all explained to me, it seems as if there will still be much work to be done in undoing whatever damage Alexei intends to cause to this world.
[...She's having a hard time actually saying it, but more than anything, Dorothy wants to know if she'll be needed here, maybe. If maybe she could carve her own place in this world.]
I'm not...suited for peace, I think. That's not to say that I dislike the idea of staying in Chicago, but... [Nnn.] Would it be feasible, potentially, to stay?
[Raven's words get a smile from Yeager that looks a little too genuinely pleased; it would be rather disappointing if they didn't get to spend time like this anymore after Eggman's defeat and Alexei's death, after all.
But Dorothy's question gets him to glance back over, head tipped to the side.]
Terca Lumireis is not... quite as technologically advanced as Chicago, as I'm sure you've seen by now. I know I don't have the skills needed to help you with repairs, should you need them.
[But with that said... Of course he understands what she's going through. When you've spent your whole life fighting, how do you give that up to live a life of peace?]
There's always something to fight here, even if it's just your ordinary monsters. I know I certainly wouldn't say no to hiring you on as one of my assassins!
...But more seriously, one of the other guilds may be able to offer you more to do or a better place to belong.
[Like. Do you really want Yeager as your boss??? No.
[Wait, Dorothy's asking about staying? Raven's eyes light up at the possibility.]
Oh yeah, you'll never run outta things ta do here. Me an' Yeager've been keepin' ourselves plenty busy fer years.
[While Raven will be spending more time with Brave Vesperia guild-wise, there's something funny about imagining him taking up an assassin position for Yeager too. He's very, very qualified for that job. But he doesn't actually enjoy assassin work, alas.]
And I know someone who should be able ta do repairs on ya in a pinch. I dunno how similar blastia and Nikke cores are, but if anyone could learn on the fly, it'd be her.
[Rita would probably jump at the chance, even. Raven can hear her now...telling him he's finally done something useful by bringing a very fascinating person to her.]
[Dorothy listens to the both of them, and steadily, her eyes start to widen and brighten bit by bit as she listens to them both--first to Yeager, but...]
I do understand that. It's...at least some of the reason I was hesitant to ask.
[There's some other stuff too, granted; feelings that Dorothy doesn't really know how to quantify, all be told. Because as it stands, she's certainly fond of them both, but how does one even broach that subject? What if she says the wrong thing? She'll end up alone again and she'll--
Raven's words end up being what draws her out of her own brain, and she tries to ignore how lit up his own eyes are--how it reflects in her own as she realizes that someone here may be able to fix her, if she assists them. Not that she'd necessarily mind not having someone who could, but...
Why, just imagine the amount of trouble we'd get into without you looking out for us!
Not even countin' the trouble we'd be gettin' into, where's the same sorta care you always tell us ta have when it comes ta yerself? You're gonna worry these old men sick.
...They want her to stay safe. They want her here--maybe she's not needed here, but she's wanted, and that's enough to be elated at the idea of having someone here who could at least try. It means she could stay with them, it means she'd have every excuse in the world to be by their side, and...]
That's what it seemed like, just from a cursory tour of this place. That there would be endless things to do, and to continue fighting toward. [Dorothy's expression softens just a touch, and she has to look away.] And you'd certainly find me hardly opposed to doing any sort of work, you know. Whatever it is that would be necessary, I could certainly do.
[Killing people, killing monsters, helping rebuild--the possibilities truly are endless, if Dorothy's being honest.]
But to know I could do so without fear, even knowing there's someone who'd be willing to try and ensure I'm repaired; that pleases me to hear. I would have grown... [...Oh, Dorothy was about to get too real there for a second, give her a moment to clear her throat and reorient.] Well. Someone should keep a lookout for the two of you, and perhaps I wouldn't mind ensuring that the both of you are able to lead happy, free lives.
[Ah, the little blastia genius? If anyone stands a chance of figuring out Dorothy's workings here, it's definitely her. Yeager nods at that; he doesn't really know her personally, but if Raven vouches for her then he's onboard with the idea.
As for Dorothy's words... Well, he'll graciously sidestep the feeling so as not to embarrass her too much. For now!! Consider yourself lucky!! And please don't pay attention to how pleased he looks with the conclusion as well, okay.]
Then that's that! You'll come with us back home after everything's said and done, and you'll stay here once Alexei's out of the picture. There will be plenty of work for you regardless of what you'd like to do - and I'm sure we can always take time out of our busy schedules for you~
After all, you certainly can't leave us alone now. Who knows what sorts of nonsense we'd get up to without you?
[Raven is also willing to not call out the feelings just yet, mostly because he’d also have to think about feelings and who wants to do that? Still, this is huge. Dorothy’s going to stay and he’s excited about it. It’s another thing to look forward to once this is all over. Past Raven sure wouldn’t have expected that.]
I try ta make myself busy, but I’d never be too busy fer Dorothy time. [He grins.] Maybe one day we all can even be under the same roof. Then ya could really keep an eye on us.
[Dorothy--well, she smiles a bit at first, but by the end of it she's at least a little flushed and trying very hard to recover her dignity a bit, huffing in the process.]
Oh, come off of it, you two. You're going to make me sound like I'm desperate at the rate you're going, and I will not have it! Your collective company is just...something I would not want to go without, considering how comfortable it is. That is all.
[Do not call her out!!! (Or do. It'll be hilarious.)
...Thankfully their next round has arrived and guess who is draining her next glass pretty quickly--]
But you are right. I do imagine the two of you are going to get up into more problems, and that much alone should keep me busy. I do have a duty to uphold to keep you both safe, after all.
...Though, I'm surprised you would even offer the idea of living under the same roof, Raven. Who's sounding like they're going to miss me now?
[There's thankfully no barbs when she says it but she's going to fire back a bit!!!]
That could easily be arranged if you two want to come work for me~
[He says it jokingly because he cannot imagine Raven ditching his freedom to work for Yeager, of all goddamn people. Not to mention the whole murders thing.
But Dorothy's words get a sly grin from him as he decides to follow up her question with one of his own:]
Ja, no one said anything about us all living together. Is there something you're not telling us, Raven~? Are you truly so lost without us?
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no subject
I think for right now, I'd love to simply stay in Dahngrest; I don't think I could ever tire of a place like this, all be told. Perhaps when our battle is done, you'll both have to show me all that it has to offer. [Another treat down the hatch and she is absolutely in heaven right now.] But I do find it quite interesting, truly. It seems no matter the world, the people will create their own means of helping one another when the higher powers will not. It's very...consistent, I think is the word I want to use; very positively so. Even if they may squabble, it is nice to hear of people coming together to take care of one another.
[It's not something she's used to, really. They both at least know a bit about her own world and how cruel and selfish it can be, but seeing a place like this...it's a little more than overwhelming. Still, she chuckles at Raven a bit, nodding in agreement.]
Oh, they'd have our heads, at minimum. I've already promised Tails I wouldn't scare him again, so we should save that kind of talk for when our battle is won, hm? Something more to look forward to, for all of us.
[Dorothy's gonna take another swig of her drink, at least, but...]
How...curious. What exactly is the Manor of the Wicked, if you don't mind my asking? [She turns to Yeager when she asks that, but she looks to Raven too.] I would not mind a tour myself, but it sounds as if there's history there...
no subject
[She certainly likes it a lot more than he thought she would, which is nice, but... Well, better not to think about it. There's still the whole confrontation with Eggman they'll have to deal with, after all.
As for that question...]
Why, it's my manor, of course. [of course.] It is located outside of town, some ways away, because I was banished from the city for crimes I certainly didn't commit.
[...He would have left it at that if it was just Dorothy here, but... well, there's no avoiding that this is an awkward topic with Raven, so he does at least offer an almost apologetic smile.]
Though I will freely admit that my guild is better suited to be stationed outside of Dahngrest despite being part of the Union.
[he has caused SO many problems—]
no subject
[Who knows, maybe Dorothy will find herself so smitten with the place that she'll want to stay! He'd...really like that, actually. But he continues to keep quiet about that subject for now.
On the topic of the Manor of the Wicked, he lets out a snort about Yeager's banishment.]
Oh, yeah, you're totally innocent. [He can deal with this sort of banter without it getting too awkward.] Leviathan's Claw has been a thorn in the Union's side for a while. S'why the Don doesn't want 'em around Dahngrest.
[He downs the rest of his glass. Ah, he really is speedrunning this.]
Dunno how much Yeager's told ya, Dorothy, but me an' him barely even talked much before all this, and that's why.
Obviously my feelings about him have changed, but yeah. History.
no subject
[Honestly, the more Dorothy thinks about it...the less she wants to leave this place. This place is warm, comfortable, and the people here don't look at her like she's unusual. She feels...normal, here, almost. There's a sense of freedom in this beautiful, sunset colored town, where the air feels lively and free, and it sees Dorothy going quiet. ...And draining her drink down a bit more, there goes any sense of not overdoing it, let's just move on--
...And what a move on it certainly is. Dorothy definitely eyes Yeager from next to her, but she thankfully doesn't comment and elects to put another, new bit of food in her mouth. She'll never get tired of this much at least!!]
Yeager has certainly implied he's something of a troublemaker for all involved, but truth be told, I haven't asked too much. When we first met, I was interested in seeing if it may be possible for Blastia to be used in the repelling of Raptures for Eden, so I did learn a little of what business that Leviathan's Claw is involved in, though not a whole lot. But I suppose I cannot say I'm entirely surprised...
[It's almost a little affectionate. Don't worry about it. And don't worry about the fact that she is absolutely not bringing up how much they got their issues all over each other, that can stay quiet--]
But I believe I can understand what you mean, Raven. It certainly sounds like there's quite a bit of history between the two of you.
[But she can sort of sense this might be a little awkward, so maybe let's veer back a bit into something general--]
Will you tell us more about it, Yeager? Did you build the manor yourself, or was it simply something you found and made use of?
no subject
I think I may have neglected to mention that Leviathan's Claw is no mere mercenary guild - we're the assassins' guild. Dealing in blastia was my own personal business, something I took up as a hobby - and for profit, of course.
Why, I even ran a second guild for a time posing as another person just to see how much I could get away with! So Raven is right, I caused quite a bit of trouble for the Union on my own, let alone with the entire guild.
[But he'll leave it at that; he'd rather not think too much about the Don right now.]
As for the manor... I did have it constructed to my specifications. Most members of Leviathan's Claw simply don't have a life outside of the guild work, so it needed to be large enough to house the majority of them and needed to retain my own unique flair.
I suppose I've grown rather fond of it.
[...He actually kind of misses it, strangely enough.]
no subject
At least Yeager brings up Ruin's Gate so he can latch onto being comically annoyed about it. He lets out a groan and rolls his eyes. He definitely needs to drink more about that.]
I still can't believe I never connected the dots on Regaey...
[He has another comment from the peanut gallery about the Manor.]
"Unique flair" sure is a way ta put it. Wait 'til ya get a load of the decorations in there, Dorothy.
no subject
Ah. That certainly explains the story of one of your employees who you fired.
[We definitely need another round of drinks at this rate, but Dorothy doesn't seem to judge, at least? Like, what was Inherit if not something like that...]
But I do understand that, at least; that was much the case for my fellow members of Inherit, as well. [So like. She gets it.] It certainly sounds like an interesting place, but truly...Raven, what on earth did you end up seeing there?
[...
(roll perception: 2)]
And...what is there to connect about Regaey? [you can probably practically hear the gears turning in her mind] I assume it was some sort of disguise, but...
no subject
[Between the goth exterior, the giant portrait of himself, and the fact that he decided to decorate his room with weapons and only weapons... yeah, no, Raven's clearly the one without taste here.
Anyway. Dorothy's lack of perception is clearly the most delightful thing he's seen in awhile, given the smug look.]
Oh, you aren't the only one who missed it, Dorothy. Why, I went for years before anyone made the connection.
[And then, with the exact same expression, without a second of hesitation, he drops the accent and continues on in the Regaey voice:]
A-As it t-t-turns out, I h-happen t-to be quite the con... convincing actor. I-Isn't that r-ri-right, R-Raven?
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[Dorothy needs to see the garish glory that is Yeager's sense of interior design.
As if Raven wasn't already grumbling while Yeager explained how long the Regaey thing went on for. Now the Regaey voice is out and he's just making this face before taking a huge sip of wine.
Maybe he should just chug it.]
Ugggghh, shut up.
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[Okay, Dorothy was fine for a bit to leave it at that, but then Yeager fucking opens his mouth as he does and he...
...
Dorothy outright groans and attempts to put a hand over Yeager's mouth. (13)]
Yeager. Please never speak like that again, convincing as it is.
[Dorothy looks sympathetically over to Raven.]
We should call for another round, Sir Raven. I think we're going to need it. [whether or not she succeeds at shutting yeager up, she'll let him go afterward--] How did you not expire on the spot having to stutter like that?
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Oh come now, don't I deserve at least a little credit for my masterful performance~?
[...he is getting his drink taken away at this rate, give him a moment to snatch it before anyone else can!!]
It certainly wasn't easy. But it was well worth it simply for your reactions~
[Wink!!]
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He was a nightmare ta listen to before I even knew he was Yeager. Now it's just a million times worse.
[The wine bottle sure is getting dangerously low now, isn't it. Raven will order another round once they're done with this stupid subject.]
But credit where it's due, it's impressive that ya seamlessly managed two guilds fer so long. One of 'em bein' in the master guilds, even.
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I understand all too well the suffering you've endured, Raven.
[But she won't let her touch linger for too long, let her withdraw and focus on the bar food again. At least that won't disappoint her!!]
Credit where it is due, however, I certainly wouldn't have guessed you could do something like that. I should have expected it from you quoting that awful movie, however...
[Still...]
It does sound like you'll both be quite busy once all is said and done, however. [...] Will...either of you need any help with anything in the future, you think?
[She doesn't know if Yeager intends to go back, but part of her has a feeling that this'll be where they both go. And...maybe in a way...
It's an opaque way of asking if they'll need her once this battle is done.
(If she'll be necessary somewhere else, if she doesn't have to consider what a life without fighting will be like.)]
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It was quite a bit of work~
[But it was also a great excuse to not think, so...
Anyway, Dorothy moves on and Yeager takes a long sip from his drink as he thinks about it.]
Assuming you mean after the Commandant is no longer a threat... [...Well.] I intend to return to leading Leviathan's Claw.
[He glances over at Raven at that, head inclined a bit as he continues.]
Though I intend to lay low for the time being. We don't need to cause any more problems with the guilds right now.
[There's no atoning for what he did. There's no making up for it. But he can at least acknowledge that there's no need to continue being so aggro in his usual methods with Alexei out of the picture.
But... He glances back at Dorothy.]
Are you worried that we wouldn't want you to come visit?
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Raven eases into a smile and piggybacks off of Yeager's question.]
Well, ya definitely don't gotta worry about that. We wouldn't be jumpin' ta show ya this place if we didn't want ya ta spend time with us here.
[If Dorothy decides to remain in Chicago for real, then she's still welcome in Terca Lumireis anytime as far as Raven's concerned.]
At first I wasn't sure what my plans were gonna be after our mission's over. I didn't think I could come back here because of how entangled I am with Alexei. But Yeager let me in on the plan and after some thinkin', I wanna come back if I can. I gotta help get things settled at the Union, and then maybe I'll do some more travelin' with Brave Vesperia.
Oh, and I guess I'll have some guy at the Manor of the Wicked ta bother too.
[That might make him sound busy, and he does like to keep himself busy, but he'd always make room for Dorothy.]
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[...]
In truth, I...don't actually know what I intend to do with myself, once all is said and done. If we truly do manage to beat that Doctor, I have no intention of going back to my own world, as I'm sure is likely obvious. But it...will be the first time ever, truly, that I've lived in a world without any pressing war or the like.
...I suppose what I wanted to ask in truth, is if there might be any way I can assist either of you further in your tasks. Given the state of what you have all explained to me, it seems as if there will still be much work to be done in undoing whatever damage Alexei intends to cause to this world.
[...She's having a hard time actually saying it, but more than anything, Dorothy wants to know if she'll be needed here, maybe. If maybe she could carve her own place in this world.]
I'm not...suited for peace, I think. That's not to say that I dislike the idea of staying in Chicago, but... [Nnn.] Would it be feasible, potentially, to stay?
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But Dorothy's question gets him to glance back over, head tipped to the side.]
Terca Lumireis is not... quite as technologically advanced as Chicago, as I'm sure you've seen by now. I know I don't have the skills needed to help you with repairs, should you need them.
[But with that said... Of course he understands what she's going through. When you've spent your whole life fighting, how do you give that up to live a life of peace?]
There's always something to fight here, even if it's just your ordinary monsters. I know I certainly wouldn't say no to hiring you on as one of my assassins!
...But more seriously, one of the other guilds may be able to offer you more to do or a better place to belong.
[Like. Do you really want Yeager as your boss??? No.
Anyway, he looks to Raven again at that.]
But that's just my opinion, ja?
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Oh yeah, you'll never run outta things ta do here. Me an' Yeager've been keepin' ourselves plenty busy fer years.
[While Raven will be spending more time with Brave Vesperia guild-wise, there's something funny about imagining him taking up an assassin position for Yeager too. He's very, very qualified for that job. But he doesn't actually enjoy assassin work, alas.]
And I know someone who should be able ta do repairs on ya in a pinch. I dunno how similar blastia and Nikke cores are, but if anyone could learn on the fly, it'd be her.
[Rita would probably jump at the chance, even. Raven can hear her now...telling him he's finally done something useful by bringing a very fascinating person to her.]
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I do understand that. It's...at least some of the reason I was hesitant to ask.
[There's some other stuff too, granted; feelings that Dorothy doesn't really know how to quantify, all be told. Because as it stands, she's certainly fond of them both, but how does one even broach that subject? What if she says the wrong thing? She'll end up alone again and she'll--
Raven's words end up being what draws her out of her own brain, and she tries to ignore how lit up his own eyes are--how it reflects in her own as she realizes that someone here may be able to fix her, if she assists them. Not that she'd necessarily mind not having someone who could, but...
Why, just imagine the amount of trouble we'd get into without you looking out for us!
Not even countin' the trouble we'd be gettin' into, where's the same sorta care you always tell us ta have when it comes ta yerself? You're gonna worry these old men sick.
...They want her to stay safe. They want her here--maybe she's not needed here, but she's wanted, and that's enough to be elated at the idea of having someone here who could at least try. It means she could stay with them, it means she'd have every excuse in the world to be by their side, and...]
That's what it seemed like, just from a cursory tour of this place. That there would be endless things to do, and to continue fighting toward. [Dorothy's expression softens just a touch, and she has to look away.] And you'd certainly find me hardly opposed to doing any sort of work, you know. Whatever it is that would be necessary, I could certainly do.
[Killing people, killing monsters, helping rebuild--the possibilities truly are endless, if Dorothy's being honest.]
But to know I could do so without fear, even knowing there's someone who'd be willing to try and ensure I'm repaired; that pleases me to hear. I would have grown... [...Oh, Dorothy was about to get too real there for a second, give her a moment to clear her throat and reorient.] Well. Someone should keep a lookout for the two of you, and perhaps I wouldn't mind ensuring that the both of you are able to lead happy, free lives.
[please don't call her on the feelings you two--]
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As for Dorothy's words... Well, he'll graciously sidestep the feeling so as not to embarrass her too much. For now!! Consider yourself lucky!! And please don't pay attention to how pleased he looks with the conclusion as well, okay.]
Then that's that! You'll come with us back home after everything's said and done, and you'll stay here once Alexei's out of the picture. There will be plenty of work for you regardless of what you'd like to do - and I'm sure we can always take time out of our busy schedules for you~
After all, you certainly can't leave us alone now. Who knows what sorts of nonsense we'd get up to without you?
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I try ta make myself busy, but I’d never be too busy fer Dorothy time. [He grins.] Maybe one day we all can even be under the same roof. Then ya could really keep an eye on us.
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Oh, come off of it, you two. You're going to make me sound like I'm desperate at the rate you're going, and I will not have it! Your collective company is just...something I would not want to go without, considering how comfortable it is. That is all.
[Do not call her out!!! (Or do. It'll be hilarious.)
...Thankfully their next round has arrived and guess who is draining her next glass pretty quickly--]
But you are right. I do imagine the two of you are going to get up into more problems, and that much alone should keep me busy. I do have a duty to uphold to keep you both safe, after all.
...Though, I'm surprised you would even offer the idea of living under the same roof, Raven. Who's sounding like they're going to miss me now?
[There's thankfully no barbs when she says it but she's going to fire back a bit!!!]
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[He says it jokingly because he cannot imagine Raven ditching his freedom to work for Yeager, of all goddamn people. Not to mention the whole murders thing.
But Dorothy's words get a sly grin from him as he decides to follow up her question with one of his own:]
Ja, no one said anything about us all living together. Is there something you're not telling us, Raven~? Are you truly so lost without us?
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I-It ain't like that!
[Then what is it like? Raven realizes he doesn't have an answer, which just makes him sweat more.]
I've just...gotten used ta seein' ya'll every day. And Yeager's somehow been a pretty good roomie, so, y'know. Why ruin a good thing?
[His case has not been helped in the slightest.]
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[She says that to Yeager, and then Raven starts to look embarrassed and she looks over to him while he stumbles through and explanation and...
...
don't call him cute, don't call him cute, do not call him cute--]
I won't disagree with you; it has been nice to have friends that I enjoy the company of and who I get to see everyday.
But goodness, I didn't know you had such an adorable side to you, Raven!
[failed step one.]
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