Area Forum

Battle area => Grade System Event => Grade System Event Version 2 => Topic started by: Cherry on August 13, 2015, 02:50:45 AM

Title: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 13, 2015, 02:50:45 AM: (http://i.imgur.com/yK7qYfG.jpg)
An unnecessarily large and incredibly extravagant mansion.

Field Status
The residence of the "Espoir" family.

Home Fields:
Home Fields are areas where certain player characters reside. To enter them, you must meet specific affinity requirements: 15 or more total affinity with all characters and a certain amount of affinity with residents.

Requirement:
3+ Affinity with: Yukino "Hikari" Espoir and/or Hana "Isabella" Espoir

What is a field?
A field is an area where events between characters or even individual characters may happen. As replies to these posts, characters may chronicle events that transpire between each other which would often be as a result of or due to a Cardfight. Field events are great ways to develop characters as well as character relationships. Field events, for example, could include a Cardfight as part of a rivalry between two individuals. It can be something as simple as a simple outing or meeting that then leads to a game of Vanguard. Or something that would greatly move the plot, a fight between someone of the heroic affinity and someone of the villainous affinity.

Remember, Cray is looking for the best of the best to be a leader. This does not mean that the leader has to be filled with good intentions, its anyone who the cards seem to decide is fit. Heroes can do as much as they can, but without villains pushing the story forward with their schemes, there isn't much to save. So if you are on the villainous side, use these areas to move along with your plots and schemes. You may ask others to come and roleplay with you and anyone can post in these areas, there is no limit other than that of being logical and simply just being respectful to your fellow fighters.

Any character that you interact with during field events may get affinity +1 or -1 with you.
Certain fields may have special events and things happening there in order to start up some action.

Post events that transpire below based on you character's own perspective, and just have fun with it!
Good luck!
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 13, 2015, 06:49:39 PM: Hana doesn't like how there's so many stairs leading up to her room. She is currently making her way through their gigantic garden and that alone must have at least a hundred steps. She just wants to fry eggs.

She opens her flip phone and calls up her dad.

"DADSAN WHY ARE THERE SO MANY STAIRS WHY IS OUR HOUSE SO BIGGG CAN YOU GET THEM TO BLOW UP HALF OUR HOOUSE I JUST WANNA GET TO MY ROOOOOOOOOOM BUT ALL THESE STAIRS DONT LIKE ME LIKE IF I TRIP ONE MORE TIME GOING UP THESE STAIRS I WILL CARDFIGHT ALL OF THEM CAUSE THEYRE SO BAKAAAAA"

"..." Dad said.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 14, 2015, 04:38:54 AM: Miyuki took a deep breath, and walked towards the Espoir mansion. No matter how many times she'd been here, she was still always taken aback by it. It was just so, so absurd almost, that it never failed to take her breath away.

Moving to the front, she noticed that the gates that normally sealed off the mansion were open. Since she'd been invited over by Hana, that made sense. She continued on past the gates, past the extravagant decor, hearing the gates shut behind her.

After walking for a little while (Mansions weren't small), she was at the front door. Thankfully the workers near the door recognised her by now, so they simply opened the door for her, and guided her to Hana's room.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 14, 2015, 05:15:41 AM: "Mii-hime!" Hana ran up and hugged Miyuki. "We must fight and practice!"

"Nationals is coming up soon so I must get ready to face whatever it may be!" Hana jumped into her room, a large and spacious living area that was basically a house of its own. She had a coffee machine filled with freshly brewed coffee. She pointed at it along with the two mugs that she had set up along her room's small table, right in front of her couch. She also had a pile of eggs on the table just for decoration.

"We are going to work hard and practice until we pass out!"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 14, 2015, 04:38:01 PM: The world was almost spinning now. Probably not a good thing, but oh well.

'One more game, Mii-hime?'. Hana still hadn't given up, wanting to practice more. She is going to pass out soon at this rate. Regardless, as her friend she'd help Hana as much as she could.

'Suree, we can do one more'.

The two Bermuda decks faced each other once again, trying to outshine one another. Miyuki could tell that Hana was really tired though, and saw that she nearly passed out several times during this game. After the game, Hana pretty much just flat out rolled onto the floor and slept.

Sighing, Miyuki moved Hana over to the bed, and made sure that she would be comfortable. She then closed her eyes, and slept as well.

Hana AP +5

When she woke up, Hana was gone. According to the workers, she had woken up earlier, and left in excitement. Realising that she had overslept, Miyuki quickly got ready, and headed out of the mansion.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 14, 2015, 05:19:28 PM: Hana put her back down upon entering her room and laid on her bed. She breathed deeply, and her eyelids were feeling awfully heavy. She looked onto her ceiling, a light blue color with a few puffs and frills scattered about, imitating clouds.

"I wonder how far I can go..." she asked herself in a worried tone.

Nationals to her were simply nerve-wracking. She took this time to relax, as she closed her eyes and became lost in her own thoughts.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 14, 2015, 06:00:51 PM: Satoshi arrived at the Espoir Mansion. He had been given the details by Yukino when he was hired on as a servant, but he had never actually been to it. The place stuck out like a sore thumb, since, y'know, it was a bloody mansion. It was surprising he never noticed it before, but at the same time, he sort of assumed when he saw that house on the hill that it was Cero's summer home or something.

Yukino had sort of just randomly disappeared from the slums, leaving Satoshi to carry all of her stuff back to her estate since he didn't have a clue where she went off to. Maybe something to do with the war on Cray? Who knows. He gently set down the bags and knocked lightly at the door to the estate.

"Hello? Anyone home?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 14, 2015, 08:05:13 PM: Making a mad dash back to her home, Yukino hastily opened up her phone to check on the airing Nationals commencing. Hana was fighting, she couldn't miss that even if the apocalypse was underway. Leaving her phone on the channel, entering the gate, the queen noticed Satoshi at the door.

"We have a door bell", she spoke, getting his attention, while hearing that her princess won the first of three games.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 14, 2015, 09:39:51 PM: Haruka finds himself in at the Espoir Mansion.

Originally he was at Card Capital watching the Nationals over with Ryuske, but the TV ended up cutting off halfway through a commercial, and everybody who was viewing had to disperse. Haruka's objective from that point was to finish watching the matches, however he also found that visiting Yukino would be interesting in itself.

However he didn't expect what he found.

A mansion, so damn huge that Haruka found himself lost before he even found the front door. Haruka was careful to change into a long sleeve shirt with a collared shirt under it, so a majority of his burn marks were covered. Normally he would just wear his scarf, but he wanted to make a good impression on the Espoir family, and a casual outfit wasn't going to cut it.

"Impressing the parents, eh? You really do-"

"Shut it Overlord. I'm here to watch Vanguard. You know that, right?"

"Sure, Haru. Sure." Overlord obviously has his head in the gutter.

Before reaching the door he notices people. Yukino and Satoshi were already standing there. "That makes this a bit easier." Haruka makes his way towards the group.

"Hey guys!! How are the final games going?" Haruka yells as he dashes up to them.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 14, 2015, 10:56:17 PM: Yukino noticed Haruka, then subsequently yanked him over, and huddled her boys together so all three of them could watch the finals on her phone. While disappointed that Jellal lost, Hana was going places. Meeting Europe's King of Vanguard, it came down to the Princess versus the King, with the pride of two nations on the line. Bermuda Triangle and Royal Paladin... Hikari's eyes gazed down with sorrow and longing, wishing she had been up there to meet Isabella. Alas, it wasn't the time of the queen, but her uprising star of a little sister.

After three harsh games, the final damage was dealt to Cero. Hana won.

Hikari darted upward, screaming with glee over Hana's victory and obtaining the title of national champion. Never mind the fact that she just punched Haruka and Satoshi in the face by accident. Still, that was a beautiful little moment she had with them, watching Hana succeed. Pride was overflowing in the big sister's ego, the Espoirs were no joke!

Haruka +1 Affinity
Satoshi +1 Affinity
Hana +5 Affinity (Oneesama Pride)
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 14, 2015, 11:03:39 PM: Haruka was about to cheer for the amazing victory Hana just scored, before feeling knuckles drag his head upwards at Mach 10. His head cheek and nose are suddenly bruised and bleeding. He rubs his face.in pain, attempting to stop the bleeding

"Ow ow ow ow!" In an attempt to mask it he pumps the free hand that isn't covering his nosebleed into the air. "Go Hana!! Woo!!" Without missing a beat, he puts out his hand for a high five before realizing Yukino was already doing her little victory cheer, and Satoshi had also suffered from the collateral damage of the Queen's punch.

"Haahh.. Good enough. Can I have a tissue?" Haruka pleads.

"That must've hurt."

Yukino +1 AP

Satoshi +1 AP

Hana +2 AP
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 14, 2015, 11:07:43 PM: "Huh?" she looked at the boys, "Oh, damn! I'm sorry!" the queen went on, frantically searching for tissues to give to them both. Upon finding them, Yukino handed them both several each, then sat down, calming herself some.

She was still bouncing in her seat.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 15, 2015, 12:15:26 AM: Satoshi cringed a bit. Yukino had actually punched him in the mouth and for some reason it really hurt. "Fwuow..." He held his face, noticing a bit of blood trailing down his jaw. That girl hit hard. He could only imagine what she did to the floor monkey.

Still, he was glad Hana was successful. At least they were still collectively putting in the work for Cray. After a short smile, he slumped a bit in his seat, actually feeling woozy. Whatever Yukino hit really didn't feel all that great...he saw her trying to find tissues to clean him and Haruka up, who had luckilly only gotten clocked in the nose, but then it just started to fade out...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 15, 2015, 12:31:39 AM: "Satoshi?" oh no. "Satoshi!" the queen called out, getting up from the stairs and checking on him. Good God, she finally realized that she hits like a mad truck and then some. Visibly panicking, Yukino looked toward Haruka to help get him inside the house to mend whatever dislodged from her fist coming in contact with his face.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 15, 2015, 12:35:16 AM: Haruka rushed over to the currently out cold Satoshi. "Satoshi! Hang in there!" He picks up Satoshi from the shoulders and under his knees, carrying him bridal-style back into the house. "Guhhhh, he's heavier than he looks," Haruka says, somewhat struggling to keep the boy up.

"Uh, where should I lay him down at?" Haruka in a slight state of panic, completely forgets that his nose is drizzling blood down his clothing.

"Goddammit." Haruka shakes his head in annoyance. "Okay, okay, get him a glass of water and a wet rag. I'll lay him on the couch I guess?" Haruka nudges his head towards a rather large sofa across the hallway in a room large enough to fit two of his own bedrooms in.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 15, 2015, 12:41:53 AM: The queen just kicked the door open for them to get inside, alerting Father Espoir of his daughter's return with... boys. The very thought sent a chill down his spine, but she was a big girl, he didn't need to interfere... yet.

Yukino rushed Haruka in with an unconscious Satoshi, and before answering his question, she noted blood dripping from his nose down onto their attire. Finally learning the struggle of being far too powerful psychically for her lithe frame, the queen panicked a bit more. It took Haruka giving a command for her to finally snap out of it. Making a mad dash into another room, she practically ran over some of the house servants in the quest for a cup and a rag. The voyage to getting the glass filled and the cloth wet was... another rampage in itself.

Finally coming back, her majesty handed Doctor Haruka both the things he requested.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 15, 2015, 12:54:18 AM: Without hesitation, Haruka is at his knees, laying Satoshi on the couch. "Don't worry dude, I'll take care of ya."

Saving people. This wasn't what Haruka expected, but it's along the lines of what he wanted. "I'll save ya." Yukino arrives in a somewhat suitable time, with a mostly-filled glass of water and a damp rag, nicely wrung out. Haruka takes the rag from Yukino.

"Could you place the glass of water over there?" Haruka points to a counter nearby. "For when he wakes up. He's gonna need to rest up. Should we call an ambulance?" Haruka asks as he neatly places the rag over Satoshi's forehead. Haruka takes off the long-sleeve thermal he had been sporting, leaving his button-up shirt to keep him unexposed. He takes the shirt and uses it to clean up the blood drooling down Satoshi's chin, jawline and neck. "You're gonna be fine." He places his hands on Satoshi's face, to position his head straight up. He reaches over to grab a sofa pillow as well and lightly places it under his head, to keep from neck pains when he wakes up.

"I think our friend here will be just fine." Haruka lies down on the carpet floor, unbuttoning the top button of his shirt, half sweating from panic, half not wanting the blood on his shirt to stick from to his chest. Haruka didn't realize a few things.

1) The burns on his neck and chest were now easily visible.

2) He is nearby a girl, albiet a queen.

3) That girl has a father who is home.

All of these things are promptly dismissed from his mind all because he's too tired from helping out Satoshi and rushing over here to worry about them.

"Lewd."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 15, 2015, 01:02:31 AM: ~Dreamscape~

Satoshi felt himself floating. Weird, that's not how he was supposed to feel. Was this an out-of-body experience? Is that what it was like to be Seph?

...Speaking of Seph, there he was, floating along with him. The dreamscape they were in was highly reminiscent of Cray itself, the place where Satoshi knew he and his units traveled every time they played a game. Odd that he was always thinking of it and how peaceful and pleasant it was.

"That really looked like it hurt, bud." Seph had his hands behind his head, floating as though he was reclining on a couch. "The Chosen Sword does have some pretty solid fists from what I've watched from your eyes, so I'm not entirely surprised, but jeez, the mouth? She could've at least aimed her hands a little better." He pat Satoshi on the shoulder. "You're fine, though. Welcome to your view of Cray."

Satoshi looked around, amazed at how nice it looked despite being in the turmoil of war. He tried to voice what he had to say, but found that words refused to come up. He was mute in this world.

Seph smirked a bit. "Yeah, sorry about that. Your vocal cords are shut down here, you're just along for the ride. I've got some stuff to tell you about that has to do with the whole 'being a champion' thing, and I figured I'd keep myself from being interrupted so you can hear me out clearly."

He waved out an arm. "Being a champion of your clan isn't primarily about skill. It's about how you feel as well, and as far as I can tell, even though it may not be as clear as others' bonds, your ties to Neo Nectar extend far into the roots of every plant in the nation. You love them so much it's like you were meant to tend to them on Cray itself. That sort of dedication isn't common, you might be surprised to know." He placed a hand on his hip and pointed to Satoshi with the other. "S'why you're the guy I chose to represent, and all you really need to do to prove yourself is keep on keeping on, y'know?"

Keep on keeping on? Satoshi was familiar with the phrase, but it was strange that someone who was guiding him like this was telling him that despite his recent losses, he was fine and should keep on the same path as before. He shook his head, trying to indicate to Seph that he didn't understand.

The spirit laughed. "Trust me, you're doing great. And soon enough, you'll see that potential soar even higher." He pointed to a mountain. "There will soon be a champion roaring at the top of that mountain, and when it happens...Cray will be required to break through its limitations and see a new, brighter future." He returned his attention to the floating Satoshi and grinned. "That's where you, the Chosen Sword, and your rival come in. When they break, you'll see what is to come."

He shrugged a bit as well. "Mind you, so will many others like you, but you have yet to meet them, and you will with time. For now, focus on getting to that point where you can break through your own limitations. Got it?"

Satoshi nodded. Yeah, okay, that made way more sense.

"One more thing before I let you come back, though." Seph ruffled the young man's hair. "You really like Yukino Espoir, don't you?"

Satoshi blushed. Honestly, for a while, he had been thinking about how elegant the queen looked, how he felt as happy when she was happy, wanted to comfort her when she was sad...all of these things made his heart skip a beat. But he knew he couldn't say anything. He wasn't her type of guy, and he didn't feel like he could betray her trust in him by giving into feelings. After all, she had a destiny. What was how he felt, or how she even felt, any more significant in the long run?

Seph looked him over, nodding sagely. "Yeah, I get it," he mused, as though he had read Satoshi's heart. "It's not the time for it, but if there's anyone you should be keeping strong for, it's for the human leader of Cray." He pat his shoulder once more. "Maybe when things lighten up a bit you'll start thinking about it again.

"For now, though..." He snapped his fingers, and the dreamscape began to fade. "Gonna need you to wake up, they're worried about you. Remember what I said."

Satoshi felt his eyes close again and the scene faded to black, before he opened them again.

---

He awoke to Haruka dabbing his face and cleaning him up. Strangely, it felt like professional work, something he wasn't exactly expecting out of his rival. He stared up.

"S-sorry about---" He started to speak, but then feeling in his jaw kicked in. Holy hell, that hurt way more than he was expecting. He instead began to try to gesture to Haruka to express his thanks and ask where Yukino was---

Wait. Haruka wasn't wearing a shirt.

He stared at the scars on his caretaker's neck and chest. They were very peculiar, but actually helped define Haruka's figure a lot better. He looked pretty hunky, for what it was worth...

Wait, what was he saying?! He blushed a bit and muttered the least painful word he could say without moving his jaw.

"Hot."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 15, 2015, 01:21:29 AM: Setting the glass down, the queen asked a nearby butler to call for an ambulance. Needing multiple servants to quickly calm her nerves, Yukino, with a deep breath, returned to the two. However, it quickly came to be that the decision was a mistake... or was it a brilliant idea? Haruka... took off the thermal and... unbuttoned some of his shirt. The burns didn't bother her all that much, but rather, the fact that he was sweating and almost shirtless did. Blushing furiously, more red than Kagero's trademark shade, she was at a loss. Seeing a man like this up close... was a new experience that brought a racing heart, thumping hard in her chest.

Dear God, he's hot!

Thinking that actually escaped her lips, her majesty slapped her hand over mouth. But it was just a thought... Holding her breath and ignoring the Royals beginning to tease, an unsteady gaze pried itself off of Haruka to check on Satoshi. He was awake, but still obviously in pain.

... Nope, her eyes darted back to Haruka.

Hikari just stared at him...

... And a sense of doom loomed over the boy, Father Espoir destroying his arm-rest by gripping it.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 15, 2015, 01:31:51 AM: Satoshi saw Yukino and managed a smile. Good, she was safe. And apparently, she too saw how attractive their friend was. Then again, the Chosen Sword hadn't ever felt his muscles; working from childhood had toned Satoshi into an equally strong, toned young man. Maybe she'd get the chance to see that some day; heck, maybe they had a pool and he could go for a swim and show it was possible for both men to be quite the ladykillers.

...Wait, he wasn't wearing a shirt. Didn't he realize that the man of the house, Father Espoir---

Oh boy. He sat up and motioned to Haruka. "Man, you're gonna want to put on a shirt like right now."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 15, 2015, 01:43:57 AM: Haruka is somewhat panting, staring at the ceiling. His head falls in Yukino's direction, who's face was suddenly really red. He raised an eyebrow and went over in her direction. "Are you sick? You look like you have a fever." Haruka was genuinely concerned about her well-being. "Here, you might be sick."

Haruka moves over to place his head on her forehead. Maybe she got a sudden cold sweat from the whole event with Satoshi.

Despite him being hurt, he looks pretty healthy, definitely fit. Satoshi is very well-built considering his weight to size ratio. Must have worked in a field where he did manual labor or the sort. Haruka was jealous of his insanely well-fit body. Maybe he'd have to get pointers from him.

"Hmm. Are you sure your okay, Yukino?" His panting is a bit rugged, so he attempts to make his breaths a bit more casual.

"Haruka, you sure are one son of a bi-"

Haruka shuts out his connection to Overlord for a moment as he makes a check for Yukino's health. "I hope Satoshi isn't the only one I have to go full Doctor mode on."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 15, 2015, 01:48:44 AM: Hana entered the house, exhausted after a long day. She closed the door behind her and placed her bag as well as her rewards from the tournament onto the hands of one of the workers. They bowed and quickly carried her items up to her room. She bowed back as a gesture of thanks to them. Since winning the national tournament, she's been having to talk to her Bermuda Triangle often and about serious and pressing issues. Upon her victory of the national tournament, she was taken upon the surface of Cray, standing alongside Pacifica, overlooking all the nations, swearing their allegiance to her. At first she thought it was a dream, because she didn't understand what was going on herself, but she has learned that cray was in danger and that she was the acting leader among the newly formed alliances.

"The threat is on its way, hime-sama." The representative of the Oracle Think Tank, CEO Amaterasu informed her.
From here on she would be involved in daily meetings among that nations of Cray and important conferences with Bermuda Triangle. It seemed like a lot to her, yet, some of the units of Cray were already familiar with her name, not because she was the princess, but because of the "Espoir" bloodline. It was all confusing to her, how her parents have kept her away from Vanguard for so long, and now its become such an important aspect of her life.

She certainly has questions for her parents as well as even Yukino later on, but for now she wishes to relax.

Holding an egg-shaped bowl of ice cream, she walks through one of the rooms in her house to see Geodude, Overlordo, and Yukinee. She gives them an awkward smile.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 15, 2015, 01:55:31 AM: Stomp.

Yukino let out a muffled scream, blushing even more. Good lord, the queen felt like she was on fire. Christ, even worse was the fact that he was oblivious as to why. She was almost mad at him, silently cursing and calling him an idiot. Lowering the hand, laughing nervously, she averted her eyes. "N-No, I-I'm quite alright..."

Stomp.

She couldn't help but stay in place for a few moments, the warmth of his head to hers, the warmth of his body next to hers... Blaster Blade couldn't help but refer to Satoshi as a "sorry bastard", shaking his head. That only made Yukino think of Satoshi's build too... The Chosen Sword's head was spinning from the idea of these two gorgeous studs within reach and grasp. Opening her mouth to speak again, slowly-

NOPE.

The sound of destruction rang throughout the ears of the triad, a fist slamming into the wall, and making quite the glaring hole in it. Not only that, but several vases exploded from the sheer shockwave, along with picture frames falling down. A beast of a man stood from atop the staircase, looming over them as a ferocious God ready to mangle them a new one. When not compared to a deity of raw power, he was like a lion, prepared to destroy the very Earth they walked upon to protect his cub from... boys.

"Yukino... You have friends over, I see...", he spoke calmly, but it was extremely simple for every last living being in the mansion to hear the unparalleled dad furry in his voice.

Mister Espoir was not pleased.

His daughter only turned to him, still blushing, but unsure of what was wrong. "Yes...", she spoke carefully, knowing he was mad. The overwhelming presence of her father was too pressuring to look back at Hana returning.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 15, 2015, 02:03:34 AM: Despite the pain he felt while doing so, Satoshi's jaw comically hit the floor. Mr. Espoir was in, and holy hell did he look angry.

Well, that wasn't actually the only reason his jaw was on the floor. Not just his presence, but his very figure. Mr. Espoir reminded him of his own father, if his father decided to take steroids. This man was bloody ripped. He thought Yukino was joking when she described her father to him the first time while on a walk, but it definitely wasn't looking like a myth. More of a living, breathing legend.

His eyes darted to the broken jars. The fact that he wasn't actually concerned over expensive property he literally destroyed with his bare hands...that was what was truly frightening about Mr. Espoir right now.

That said, Satoshi wasn't the one with his shirt off. If his employer had caught him like that...well, money would be the least of his concerns. More like being able to function as a human being. Man, Haruka was so screwed.

Even more so now that a younger girl that seemed somewhat similar to Yukino in stature had walked in with a bowl of food. Satoshi took this to be Hana, Yukino's younger sister who had just won nationals. He wanted to congratulate her, but he feared getting his head caved in by Mr. Espoir right now. Maybe when things calmed themselves a bit...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 15, 2015, 02:09:33 AM: Haruka felt the thundering boom of foot steps throughout the house. "Oh, you're okay?" Haruka leans back to find a hole in the wall nearby, and a man big enough to crush a human's skull with his hand. "You must be Mr. Espoir!" Haruka smiled a bit until he realized all of the prior events that lead up to this moment.

Sweating. Undressing. Blushing. Heat.

"O-Oh. H-H-Hi Mr. Espoir." Haruka turned to the Yukino who he was nearly on top of at this point. Its his turn to blush like crazy, realizing everything all at once. He hadn't even realized how cute of a face Yukino had made. Damn. If the father hadn't shown up Haruka might have done something regrettable. Turning back in that direction, he also notices Hana. That only amplifies the direness of the situation. "S-Satoshi-" He turns to Satoshi, who has a look of "you messed up, dude," on his face. Haruka looks back finally to Mr. Espoir. "T-This, this is not what it looks like, I---uh-" Haruka stumbles over nearly every word that comes from his mouth.

"You were a great Vanguard, Haruka. You will be missed." A cold chill goes down Haruka's back. "Sir, I was just checking if she was sick! P-Promise! I thought maybe because Satoshi was injured, uh, er-" There is no way out.

Haruka is so dead.

So very, very, very dead.

"Hana?" he looks over to her, for maybe some sort of out to this. Most likely to no avail.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 15, 2015, 02:21:06 AM: It was far too late for Haruka's life to be spared. Mister Espoir took a single step, inflicting terror within the hearts of men if it wasn't there already. Birds outside all cowered in fear, flying south for the winter... and it was summer. The party heard his stomping before, but now they actually saw it. It, in every sense of the word, completely devastated the floor below, cracking through the stairs as if the tremors of power would destroy the entire residence. Yukino got an idea of the problem after that, how Emperor Lord Father would save his queen child from everything in the world that threatened her... including potential boyfriends.

He didn't even respond to Haruka with words, only kept approaching, coming down the stairs. The golden aura of the lion practically suffocated the offers. He stood in silence, glaring at the men, while protectively glancing at his precious little girls. He folded his arms, silently roaring: ten steps away from her and fix yourself to Haruka.

With everyone frozen in sheer horror, the behemoth of a man finally spoke.

"Would our guests enjoy some tea?" He smiled, which was honestly more frightening than the menacing frown he had before.

Yukino dropped to the floor out of complete and utter shock.

Blaster Blade fell over too, is this what it was like for lower classed soldiers to have to meet Alfred's gaze?!
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 15, 2015, 02:29:13 AM: This situation was very awkward. Hana remembers the words of ojiisan from the ramen shop the other day. It was something about Yukino having to come to terms with these kind of things at some point. Always assuming the kindest out of people, often out of her own inexperience with trouble and her childhood where she was given the world, she assumed that this Overlordo fellow was helping her sister. She was sure that her father was angry, it was obvious in the way that the veins popped from his forehead as well as his arms. She recalls than when she was little that she wanted a window in her room. The workers were really busy that day and she really needed some sort of opening to let fresh air in so her dad simply made the windows by punching her walls. They just plastered over it and added paint to make it look nice. Those are the same windows that she has in her room to this day.

She ran over to her father who was now standing over Yukinee and the other guests.

To Hana this situation played out in the following way:
- Yukinee must get married at some point and one day will have a family of her own.
- These guys are just being very very nice and helping her with that so dad has no need to worry.
- She will also one day need to undergo such things, most likely after she is finished being an idol, they may be nice enough to help.

"Dad-san these boys, um, Geodude, and Overlordo are just trying to help Yukinee because you see, ojiisan at the ramen shop told me that Yukinee must realize her affection for boys so that she may have a family and umm..." She points over to Haruka, "I think Overlordo right there is just showing Yukino how its like to be husband and waifu... I think.... and they seem very nice... later on I think they'll have to show me too after I am done with being an idoru. They are just being really nice to Yukinee yeah!"

She smiles at Haruka and Satoshi, signaling that they're in the clear based off what she said.
All of the sudden, the house felt like it was shaking.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 15, 2015, 02:31:28 AM: Satoshi began shaking. <Father Espoir...are you right pullin' a fast one on us here?! Your daughters are right there, we should both be dead on the spot!> he thought, jaw still fully on the floor. How the heck could this chiseled statue of ultimate manhood just stand there and not actually do anything?!

...But actually, tea sounded rather nice. It was a soothing beverage to have, especially when under this kind of stress. He resumed his normal color and his jaw lifted off the floor. A light sigh of relief escaped his mouth. Cheating death like this...Haruka had quite a lucky break. Even his well-toned body wouldn't handle the lion's fists, that much he could tell. His cub proved that sevenfold with her accidental punch.

Thinking about bodies again, he actually went out of his way to flex his arms a bit. Yep, the veins were still popping with vitality and strength, just as they were on the farm. After all, one time he had to carry a cow that had escaped back to the barn, all by himself. A huge heffer, and he managed it within a few hours. A whole half-mile. He flexed a little more, making sure his arms were in good shape...and then remembered who was still there with a watchful eye, and he immediately stopped, afraid of a punch in the face.

He mildly blushed a little, hoping there was a slight chance that Yukino had seen...dammit, why did Seph have to bring all that up when in the first place, he was supposed to be thinking about Cray?

Then, Hana opened her mouth and said her schpeal. And suddenly, Satoshi's jaw was back on the floor. Oh god, she brought up the m-word.

Not in front of Daddy...Hana, please, god, no....
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 15, 2015, 02:42:27 AM: Haruka had a sigh of relief, hearing the words, "tea" and a smile on his face.

Until Hana spoke up. Everything just turned on it's head again and Haruka suddenly felt a heat so intense that Dragonic Overlord and every dragon on Cray just bestowed the most furious flames upon his skin. The blush on his face was roughly the equivalent of a crimson. He stood up, quivering. "I-I, uh." Haruka simply stood there, wide-eyed and not knowing what to say.

"Mr. Espoir, sir, my lord." Haruka got on one knee. Time to beg for forgiveness, forever. "Sir... Err."

The most unthinkable thing Haruka could do came out of his mouth. He regretted so much after saying it, that he almost wished Mr.Espoir would slam him into the Earth's core forever.

"Your daughter is so very beautiful. This is all my fault. I'm a very awful man. Please forgive me!" Haruka stopped, lips trembling, and looked over to Satoshi.

"Help. Me." Was all he could mouth before his body froze completely still, tears almost streaming down his face, but unable to cry because his muscles were transfixed in horror, waiting for impact.

"You're so dead. You almost weren't. But now you're so dead."

"I-Is there anyway I could, uhm, fix this- Uh, err. Sir, how could I possibly pay you back for my misdeeds." Haruka was trembling all the same, once again, fists clenched.

Just remember, for this one time only, if he hits you, do NOT stand back up. This was the thought running in Haruka's head. And I was so young. I had so many people to Cardfight. If I had just, left. It was that easy. But nope. Nope.

Dead. So, so dead.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 15, 2015, 02:56:52 AM: Man... Hana could really not have made this any worse.

Yukino quickly rolled over, giving her sister a silent "why?!" with a distressed gaze. The mansion indeed shook, no, the Earth itself shook, nay, Cray itself shook with the Earth. Cray was light years away, yet, even Vanguard itself trembled in fear. Whatever the oncoming storm was, it honestly couldn't be worse than Dad Espoir. Even worse, the Rift itself shook, beings who tended to and surpassed time and space stopping in their tracks with terror.

"Marriage... huh..." he growled, glaring down at Haruka specifically, sizing him up. And Satoshi hopefully didn't think he was out of the woods either, the stern gaze reaching around to him as well. He caught the farm boy flexing too, which only worsened his case.

"Wait, father, Hana is joking! Only kidding! I'm not interested, no way! So you can spare them, right?! How about that tea?!" Honestly, she knew what she was was probably cruel if the boys were genuinely attracted to her. While that'd give the queen an ego massage, she actually wanted these two to live. Unfortunately, he didn't seem to believe her, since he still noticed the blushing from before.

"There..." he began, roaring again, only this time vocalizing it with his mouth instead of crushing the surrounding area. "Will be none of that, Hana", the lion finished, declining the very notion of it. Such rage oozing from his being could not be soothed.

Then Haruka opened his mouth. He was almost to safety, the Lord Emperor Father was almost willing to forgive him.

Hikari spoke up ago: "F-Father, please!"

Only then did a courageous butler waltz in casually, despite the apocalypse happening. He offered tea to his Lord.

"... Hmm."

Hmm?!

He... He didn't respond, instead, he simply took his tea, sipping it. He listened to their pleas and groveling, yet, still quietly contemplated their lives ending.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 15, 2015, 03:12:24 AM: Satoshi sat there, contemplating his options. He could make a mad dash for the window, jump out, and never return. That seemed pretty safe right now, considering he had made just enough money to get by for a few days before he had to figure out some other plan. Or maybe he could enjoy his new life as a carpet.

A thought weaved its way into his mind, though, as the huge man paused to sip at his tea. Something his own father had said a while back. Men of power deserve respect, but they respect powerful men. The point of the saying was that standing ground would be reasonable here, even in the brink of losing his life. After all, this gargantuan man had some form of compassion to not be squeezing the life out of them yet, so maybe he was waiting to see what they would do.

He stood up slowly, a bit of blood still dripping from his lips, but he wiped it away with his hand as he stared Mr. Espoir, dead in the face. This was an incredibly stupid idea and could backfire, but with the confidence this country boy had been given from his aide on Cray...it was worth a shot to see if he could articulate things a bit more clearly than Haruka.

"Mr. Espoir, sir." He gave a short bow, then proceeded: "What my friend Mr. Nakahara here is trying to say is that he had no intention of courting your daughter. He was taking care of me, I sustained a rather heavy injury and he was making sure I was alright and tended to. The Miss came to make sure he was doing everything correctly, and to provide him with medical supplies. He mistook her shock as a fever and was attempting to care for her without realizing. It was a complete misunderstanding on his part that is my fault alone for allowing myself to be in such horrid condition."

He took a few steps forward, standing at attention before him. "In fact, sir, if it would be reasonable, I will take the full responsibility of his actions. Any punishment you deem worthy for this, I deserve infinitely more than my friend. He had only good intentions in mind. I, on the other hand..." He looked over to the blushing Yukino once, then back to Father Espoir's hard stare. "I will admit that your daughter is in fact a very attractive young woman, and as a father, you should no doubt be proud of the strength and power she has within her. I wish I could share in that prospect, but that is not for me to allow, is it not?"

He clenched his hands at his sides. "So whatever you decide...please, myself only. I'm not about to let a good-intentioned man suffer for my errors."

Haruka +2 AP

Satoshi obtained the title, "(Foolish) American Hero."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 15, 2015, 03:19:16 AM: "Hana-chan, we are getting reports from the united alliance of a strange force shaking both Earth and Cray, Juggernaut Maximum and Amon seems to be in tears because they feel that it is far too powerful." Pacifica warned,but Hana smiled, "Tell them not to worry, that's just my dad!" That was exactly why they were worried.

Hana was still a good distance away, closer to dad-san who was now silently sipping his tea as the others were groveling. She thought she had helped them, but she was disappointed to discover that it had not hit the way she had anticipated. There was only one way to calm down dad-san when he was like this, but it may make the situation worse. Even Hana through her naive and often clueless mind knew the dangers of calling forth the one card that could trump the unimaginable force known as angry dad-san, and she was hesitant. In this situation it was like a wild card.

Satoshi took a stand, a brave and honorable act for his friend. It was an awe to watch even, but Hana knew that she must save him, his life could not end here! (The Espoirs are rich enough that dad-san can probably get away with murdering Satoshi without suffering from any repercussions.)

Hana moved without thinking and opened up her flip phone.
She called mom.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 15, 2015, 03:30:21 AM: Haruka was definitely in deep shit. Without a good enough reason for her Father, not only was he dead, but so was Satoshi, that butler and whatever human beings are in a half-mile radius.

And then Satoshi stands up. He puts a shield of courage in front Haruka, guarding him with his own life. Haruka nearly breaks into tears. Satoshi is a saint. A god among men. This boy could single-handedly be the reason Haruka isn't torn to shreds and thrown to the wind. He gulped, in awe. Absolutely astonished. "And I was supposed to save people," Haruka said mostly to himself.

Satoshi +5 AP

"Satoshi..." Haruka's voice was quiet. He felt sorrow burrow into his gut. He didn't want Satoshi to be destroyed here for his own problem. Haruka should have done something else. He could fix this still! He wanted to take the blame, like he originally planned. Before Haruka could open his mouth, he saw Hana pull out her cell phone and start dialing. Haruka thought for a moment. His brain's gears functioning at hyper speed. So damn fast, a future Cardfight clan would be in shock at such thought-process.

"W-Who are you-"

Haruka had realized it just now. He looked at Yukino mouthing, "Don't gotta insult me in front of your father," in response to being told that she has no interest in him or Satoshi. Haruka looks back at Hana and realizes that this is dire. He bites his lip, looking around for some sort of escape. "Ugh... this is still my fault too.." He was going to say that loud enough to evoke a response from Mr. Espoir, but that would totally throw Satoshi's prior courageous act down the drain. He had to help from the back line.

Boost the vanguard, so to speak.

"Haru, that was a poor analogy. Kill yourself." Haruka shed a tear.

It was probably a much more peaceful way to go then be destroyed by the raging lion of a man in front of him.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 15, 2015, 03:36:50 AM: Nope, Satoshi made a mistake. The lion man gripped Satoshi by the top of his skull, lifting him into the air. Challenging the king of beasts' stare was not something that should be attempted by any human being. He stood, growling, ready to crush the boy in his large hand, but instead, he let out another "Hmm". He had noticed the blood coming out of Satoshi's mouth, and turned toward the couch, gently setting him down.

A sigh of relief came from Yukino... This... idiotic bravery...

Satoshi +1 Affinity

Dad Espoir also gave a hearty sigh, he even knew who Hana was calling before she dialed a number. While Mom Espoir was frightening, she was also his only rival. This wasn't the first Espoir Mansion, this is was the first for Yukino and Hana. There had been several before this destroyed in the heated wars for dominance between the parents. Even so, it was probably best to not have this one wrecked to rubble too. The aura of fury finally dissipated, and the butler cleaned up the broken teacup he dropped and spilled when focusing on Satoshi.

"Are they nothing more than friends?" he asked Yukino, realizing Hana probably gave an answer born of pure naive nature. The boys seemed sorry enough, and the farm boy even gained some respect from the father. Mind you, a challenging stare was still likely to kill him if he were anyone else. ... And if he were more than a friend.

"Yes! Yes!" Yukino screamed, this needed to end before mother and father killed everyone. Yukino saw one of these fights before Hana was born... a pregnant, mood swinging mom and a dad growing tired of dealing with it... that was only one instance, yet they were out of a kitchen for a good while after the onslaught...

Keeping his arms folded, he gave another sigh. One of defeat. He finally decided to let them live. The same butler came back with tea for everyone else, including a replacement for him. Taking it and another sip, he spoke calmly again: "Let them stay just that, and they're welcome in my home", the lion accepted as workers came to immediately start fixing the cracked stairs and floor.

Alfred sweat bullets on his throne after Cray's quake. He and his right hand Blaster Blade honestly just had no words.

God bless mercy.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 15, 2015, 04:04:44 AM: Satoshi sat there, somehow alive and yet not breathing. That hand...that hand was so strong and so big, one squeeze would've put out his brains, and it wouldn't've even covered that much of his palm. He should be dead. Dead. Not alive. He was spared because he was injured. The lion had decided to let him go despite being challenged.

Maybe he thought he was stupid enough to be telling the truth. He half was. He was mostly sticking out his head to give Haruka a chance to run, but...there they both were.

He checked his pulse. Despite still not breathing, it was still there. He wanted to spout several curses, but he didn't want to upset Yukino---

Suddenly Satoshi remembered what he said to Mr. Espoir's face about his daughter. His head was in his hands. Crap, he had actually sort of admitted the queen was appealing to him. He could've even gone the step further and mentioned "darlin'" as the pet name, and was glad he didn't for sure now. What the hell was he thinking? Yukino was going to kill him now, for sure, even if they managed to survive her father's wrath.

Still...he also thought about the nerves of steel Hana had. To say that to her father, and then go out of her way to try and fix things up by involving Mrs. Espoir...Miss Yuki's sister was nuts, clearly. But a truly respectable kind of nuts. The kind of nuts, he realized, explained so much about the Espoirs as a family and how he and Haruka somehow got mixed up in their affairs.

The perfect kind.

Hana +5 AP
Haruka +3 AP (to go with the 2 from before)
Yukino +5 AP
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 15, 2015, 04:20:57 AM: A long rush of relief went over Haruka in a fraction of a second.

I'm not dead? WE aren't dead? How in the hell-

Haruka just let it be. He wasn't prepared to face another one of these incidents for a long time. The fire in his chest was sated for the evening. Haruka sat down next to Satoshi on the floor, not deserving of the seat that the legend currently occupied. Haruka wanted to pat his back and compliment him, but in the current, somewhat tense state of things, he wanted to just shut up and let things sort of take their course. He used his button-up as a sort of fan and used it to cool himself off, flapping it to create wind between himself and his chest. Suddenly noticing his exposed scars and burns, Haruka felt somewhat insecure. He buttoned the top button back up, despite how much he was sweating from anxiety, and other prior events.

He looked up at Mr. Espoir. This man was quite a walking, breathing apocalypse. Haruka found himself in awe of such encumbering power. Nothing Haruka necessarily wanted, but it was still amazing to see a human amass such strength.

Haruka breathed out, and turned his glance to Satoshi. He placed a hand on his knee, to try and comfort the suddenly upset Satoshi. "Thanks... I appreciate you standing up for me. Really." Haruka would've said so much more, if the situation in the house wasn't just simmering down. He still wasn't able to speak much else, so instead he simply nodded and smiled. A sort of thank you, for trying to help the situation he accidentally started.

Then his attention moved towards Yukino and Hana. First, Hana. He looke at her, and nodded as well. He wasn't sure how to address the person who Hana was calling, so he just kind of wanted her to put the phone down. Hana could have easily carried almost half the terror her father instilled if she was put in such a state.

Finally, Yukino. The final person to confront before putting his thoughts to rest. What was he supposed to say? What happened just 10 or so minutes ago could easily be described as Haruka's worst mistake.

But he didn't hate the event.

It was only to see how she was feeling. Haruka didn't want to make anything awkward for anybody. He originally had the intention of seeing if she was okay. That turned into something entirely different by the end of it. He wasn't sure how to progress with her. His eyes might be lingering on her a bit too long, so he simply moves his head back in Satoshi's direction, escaping the guilt he feels at the moment.

Satoshi likes her. It's obvious now that he admits to it. Haruka sighs and smile a bit. "What a person I am..." Haruka whispers that to himself before taking one last glance at Yukino, then Satoshi, then facing forward to Mr. Espoir.

Lesson learned: Not in the girl's house.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 15, 2015, 04:44:04 AM: Raising his brow, he let the children be... for now. "I assume you called the ambulance. No need for them anymore", he addressed Yukino about Satoshi's injury, several maids wandering over to the farm boy. Explaining that they had nursing degrees, and a couple of them were fully licensed doctors, they got to work on mending him. A few more glances as a waning warning, Mister Espoir left them to their devices.

With the situation settling down, Yukino's mind began retracting back to how close she was to Haruka... Far too close for comfort, but not far enough for discomfort. That... made no sense, but that's how she could describe it. The queen was just so unfamiliar with how her heart ached, placing a hand onto chest. Taking a number of deep breaths, her pulse finally slowed from sheer terror and whatever feelings that went on before.

These two were something else.

Hikari, first, approached her sister with a long, squeezing hug. "Congratulations", the Chosen Sword gave words of celebration. There was a subtle hint of disdain, a yearning to be in Hana's shoes right now. Though, it was the princess' time, and she wasn't going to take that from her. "I'm so proud of you", she said. Dad was probably thinking the same, but was too busy warding off thirsty teenagers to get the chance to. He likely made a mental note to do so later tonight or in the morning.

Returning to the two boys, Yukino blushed a little when her eyes met theirs, but it quickly went away when she shook her head.

"Do you guys want to stay the night?" she offered.

Haruka +3 Affinity (dokis)
Hana +1 Affinity
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 15, 2015, 04:47:58 AM: Stay the night and not be out on the streets again?

"I'd greatly appreciate it. Otherwise I'd be on a bench, you know that." Satoshi noticed Yukino blush a bit. He blushed as well, looking to the balcony. He might walk out there for some air tonight. He was going to need it.

"I don't really have spare clothes for sleeping attire, though, so I may have to make do with some sheets or something as cover, it's rather warm in here..."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 15, 2015, 04:57:07 AM: Haruka noticed the two's embarrassment. At first he felt a little bit the same, but was beginning to find himself in daze. "Ahh... Right." Haruka cracks his neck, and stands up, dusting off his pants. "Yeah, staying the night would be nice. The house I stay in isn't exactly the coziest. Do you have a coffee maker, by chance?"

Haruka absolutely loves coffee. Even at night, he loves a nice sugared-up cup of coffee. He glances around, looking for a kitchen area. He almost instinctively reaches up to his shirt to undress, since he normally sleeps in just his boxers. Then he looked back to Yukino, realizing why that was not a good idea. To stop another incident from occuring, he smoothly slips his hands into his pockets and smiles. He can't exactly put on his natural goofy grin as normal, but he manages to break into a wry grin. Left to be interpreted by the two onlookers.

"Get on top of her, now stay at her house? Do you have manners? Do you know how much stress Cray was just under? I should disown you."

Haruka simply keeps his composure, and stares back at his two friends. How to progress in a casual conversation however, he is unsure. Things aren't exactly the same as before. Satoshi is a pure, noble human. But what would he think of Haruka after that event? Does he even believe Haruka? That it was all an accident? And what about Yukino? What if she thinks Haruka is falling in love with her? What if Haruka IS falling in love with her?

Yukino +5 AP

Albeit, Haruka is somewhat entranced at the moment, he would prefer it if that was not the main focus of the current trio. He nods to the group before his mind focuses into dangerous territory. "So yeah. Coffee maker?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 15, 2015, 05:07:50 AM: "Yeah, someone go make him some coffee", the queen ordered and one of the maid left to do so. The butler felt a bit dejected over Haruka not being more accepting of tea... nevertheless, he left to his other duties. Yukino was sort of confused by the man sliding a hand in his pocket and giving an odd smile, but she took it as a good note. Satoshi was being cared for well, and one of the servants stated that they were about his size. They should have some spare stuff laying around for him, and they went off to fetch it.

"Father is probably going to kill you guys if you come in my room, so we'll use one of the guest rooms to hang around with. I was hoping to talk with you guys more and get some playing in."

A deck in hand, Yukino wanted to train. Even if there was nothing to really hone her skills for.

"I'll go get changed, go down the hall and go in the second to last door on the left."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 15, 2015, 05:18:59 AM: Satoshi was grateful that one of the house servants had clothes his size. It wouldn't be a good idea for him to not wear a shirt, even though it was really hot inside for some reason...maybe it was from the blood rushing to his head?

He nodded to Haruka. "You go ahead. I need a little air, I'm gonna step out on the balcony." He gently got up and gestured to the nurses that he would be right outside if they were concerned about him before opening the door to the balcony.

Walking out, he embraced the fresh air and felt a bit better. Yeah, that's what he needed, cool air. He gazed out at the Espoir estate. It was really pretty at night. Very scenic. Mr. Espoir picked an excellent location for his current estate. He unbuttoned his shirt, and a faint breeze danced against his chest. He sighed a bit and removed the shirt entirely. He was about to replace it soon enough, the lion wouldn't come to get him if he was out here a fair distance from his daughter.

Satoshi rested his arms on the railing. He'd definitely be along shortly, he just needed the shirt and a little time to stare out and think.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 15, 2015, 05:23:50 AM: "Arigatou Nee-san!" She hugged her sister back

Dad-san looked like he was settling down, so she no longer had any need to call mom-san assistance hotline. She looked upon the scene in this room. The workers were still scattering about, fixing up what dad-san had broken as well as asking him for anything that he needs. Obviously this was quite a messy scene, but Hana couldn't put her finger on what really made all this feel awkward for her. It was most likely that weird state which Yukino keeps entering and exiting constantly.

"Never seen her like that before," she said in a tone mixed with both confusion and worry.
"She's feeling doki doki." Pacifica commented.

"Their faces keep turning red..." Hana was correct with this comment, their faces were, indeed, constantly blushing and unblushing, and she was just there watching them do so from a distance. From where Hana was standing, it looked like Christmas and she sure did think that it was wierd. Eventually Yukinee invited them to the guest rooms for a session of Cardifighting. She wasn't sure whether she should join them or not as she was very exhausted from the whole day.

Of course, she should call up Mi-hime some time soon and thank her for the night of Cardfighting that they had the night before.

Affinity:
Yukinee: +1 (Hana drives a Neesan)
Geodude: +1 (Rock hard abs)
Overlordo: +1 (Pls chill)
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 15, 2015, 05:30:54 AM: Haruka watches as Satoshi walks out to the balcony out on the other side of the room. Promptly after, Haruka is brought a small mug with hot coffee in it, lightly creamed and sugared. Haruka smiles with delight and takes a quick sip.

"Better than Uncle Toshida's coffee." The aroma drifting to his nostrils was a strong one. Suddenly, Haruka didn't feel so well. He saw his reflection in his coffee. He turned to Hana, who was presumably judging them and their blushing. He opens his mouth to speak, but quickly shuts it.

The guilt was getting to him. Haruka wasn't the type of guy to leave things hanging in the air, but this was all too crazy. "Love. Friendship..." Haruka was experiencing emotions for the first time. He looked up to the butler who brought him his coffee.

"Sir. Thank you for the coffee." Haruka gives a small nod of thanks to him. Satoshi must be thinking out there. Following him out there might not be the best idea, if he's taking a bit to think. "A fight might be a good idea to clear my head right now."

Haruka seats himself on the bed in the guest room down the hall, sipping his coffee. Despite the situation, Haruka still finds himself stuck in a sweaty dress shirt and jeans. He rolls up the sleeves of his shirt and the cuffs of his pants. Comfort is a priority now, when his mind is still all over the place.

Awaiting the return of the Queen and her Royal Guard, Haruka, a man with no place in this kingdom, finds solace in his hot cup of caffeine, gulping it down in several second intervals.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 15, 2015, 05:39:26 AM: Returning to her room of a snow-themed wall, an unnecessarily large, fluffy bed... and a number of stuffed animals she'd rather keep secret, she needed to get out of these clothes. They weren't going to keep her comfortable throughout the night, and egotism of the queen seemed absent under the half-moon's shine. For once, feeling like a human being without being "chosen" or "royalty". It was only a small party with friends, which was a new experience. Shedding out of the royal garbs, donning some denim shorts, along with a small black, sleeveless, strapless tee exposing a lot of back and some cleavage, she felt... casual.

It was sort of gross, but at the same time, she had never wore these after buying them. This was a good excuse.

Taking a few moments to be content with this down-to-Earth attire, Yukino strut out of the room in her comfy new clothes, heading for the guest room. Showing off Starlight Violinist and Lamorak was going to be a treat, but seeing how her new deck functioned was going to be something more.

The butler from before approached Satoshi outside on the balcony, handing him a basket of clothes.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 15, 2015, 05:45:41 AM: Satoshi dug through the clothes and found a light buttoned shirt similar to his last one, but a bit more baggy and loose. He also chose a pair of shorts since it was so warm. Making a quick switch, he was now clothed in a reasonably comfortable way, his toned legs free from pants. He left his collar button open to expose a little bit of his upper chest, mostly because having the top button buttoned was extremely uncomfortable.

"Thank you very much," he imparted to the servant, handing him his old clothes to be laundered. He went and grabbed his bag, walking over to the guest room. Second to last door on the left.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 15, 2015, 05:53:19 AM: The queen entered the room, an air of renewed confidence about her. Noticing Satoshi coming behind, she held the door open and came instead with him. Giving greetings, two maids quickly came in with treats and snacks to carry them through the night. Another cup of coffee for Haruka specifically, as the one who brewed it was rather pleased he liked it. Yukino didn't waste time tearing into a pack of strawberry sugar waffers, hugging it to her chest while chewing on one. They were brought sleeping bags, pillows, bean bag chairs for maximum comfort if they chose to use them, and multiple Vanguard playmats.

Swallowing another treat, Hikari waved her deck about, then placed it on one of the mats.

A silent challenge to the two of them, which would face the new Chosen Sword's lineup?
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 15, 2015, 05:56:27 AM: Waiting to see who would go first, Satoshi decided to break the silence. He had things he wanted to try out himself.

"I'll fight." He scratched at his neck a little. The butler's shirt was a bit more itchy than he was expecting it to be, but he had to try to manage. Can't let Yukino have a nosebleed. He took his deck out and placed his starter down on the opposite mat.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 15, 2015, 06:35:23 AM: For a new formation that she hyped, a whole lot of nothing went down beyond a single new unit. That, and Yukino got the hang of dealing with minimal trigger checks. Munching away on more cookies, Lamorak appeared unto the battlefield against Neo Nectar. The Royals seemed to like him and his hardheaded, fierce, but inquiring personality. A few already put down their lives for him to make it out, and having five Grade Two units with ten thousand power worked out swimmingly.

Lack of triggers on both ends, Satoshi had worse luck since he drew most of his. Epona and Elaine came at the queen's final Twin Drive to rub salt into the wound.

She smiled, noting that it was fun. Not giving off a "but, of course" or a "this was only natural", but instead, a pleasant "good game". A little mental note to look into Neo Nectar units Satoshi could try was written down in mind, something like Lien specifically to give him card cycling power.

Another treat in mouth, her eyes trailed off toward Haruka. Now this was something Blaster Blade personally was waiting for. Royal Paladin and Kagero were longstanding rivals within the Sanctuary, within Cray's entirety even. Normally, he wasn't the type to get fired up over battle, but he wouldn't deny that he felt alive when combating Dragonic Overlord. Yukino could sense this yearning to battle too, getting in sync with her Avatar.

Collecting her deck, shuffling it, and setting down Reavergal, they were ready for Haruka and his flame dragons.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 15, 2015, 06:45:45 AM: Satoshi sat down after his loss. He felt like he should watch his rival, but thoughts were running through his head as he looked through his spare cards. He didn't think Behemoth seemed like a good card when he could put on more pressure with Gene and his friends. He decided to cut back on Carolla Dragon and Caramel Popcorn to play two copies of another Neo Nectar, Lady of the Sunlight Forest. Maybe this would help solve part of his problem.

He had a theory it had more to do with the triggers of his deck, but at the same time...maybe it was also just how he played. Was there a way he could manage to make it better? Maybe Yukino or Haruka knew.

The shirt was too itchy, he couldn't take it. He removed it, but draped a sheet over his shoulders instead, focusing on the cards and not the game, even though he was listening in on their exchanges.

Honestly...if Haruka was really interested in Miss Yuki, he didn't have that much of a problem with it, but it kind of bummed him out to think about it.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 15, 2015, 07:13:51 AM: The fight started pretty casually. With a few words exchanged, the fight really got intense. Haruka boldly retired a couple of Yukino's rear guards, causing some hand to move back to the board. But despite the attack after attack and burn after burn, Haruka couldn't truly put a dent in the defense of the Royal Paladins. There was just no way through. A new unit Haruka had never faced before came to the board.

"Starlight Violinist!" A unit that plays a song, a rally, a chant for it's allies, calling them from the deck to the rear guard. It was truly a sight to behold. Haruka was impressed. The fight had gotten to a boiling point. Haruka felt the flames of the fight in his body spread throughout. He was ready for a final attack, but alas, with no triggers to come, he wasn't able to break through.

The final attack came from Alfred, who managed to pass through with only one trigger. Haruka wasn't the least bit discouraged. Despite the loss, he felt like the fight was good. It was worth more than just a normal fight.

"You're a bad liar; you actually are pretty strong," Yukino said. Haruka turned his head, somewhat blushing. "Err, thanks... I guess."

He felt the flame in his chest rekindled and the flare in his eyes burned brighter than ever. The fire wasn't dying tonight. Haruka adjusted himself and gulped down the last bits of his coffee before setting down the mug. He looked back at her to see her smiling at him. This made him stop and think for a moment.

"Jeez, she's beautiful." Haruka accidentally let out. His eyes widened, he covered his mouth, and averted his gaze once more.

"That was a good fight. But if you intend to fawn over her after every one of them, we might have a problem here, Haru."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 15, 2015, 07:24:35 AM: Another win for her imperial majesty, but she wasn't happy with winning here either. No, instead, glad she had the fight in the first place, a good time. Royal Paladin and Kagero barely gave the other an inch, wrecking one another at a break neck pace. It was pretty obvious this wasn't the first war to go down like this. Even so, even the units enjoyed the thrill of the fight, gladly standing in arms with their Vanguard. Violinist made a more "epic" debut, according to Akane... denying favoritism that said debut involved her.

A magnificent play of expending three counterblasts and a soul blast to bring out Akane, then have Akane bring out another unit. The same price of Alfred's skill, but a soul blast, with the added bonus of two more units to his one. Very proud of this working, the queen bounced in place when she was victorious because of it. A bit oblivious to the reason why Haruka averted his eyes from her, but the idea she had was pushed out by joy.

"Nicely done", Blaster Blade stated to Violinist, shaking her hand as he formally met her. Giving a smile, the musician notes that it was really nothing spectacular. Akane and Wingal started shouting, it was SUPER spectacular, better than Lamorak's whole buncha nothing.

"Whadidya say?!" the axe-wielding knight yelled, furious. Gallatin tried to calm him down, but being mute let him do only so much in a heated moment. Lamorak charged at Akane, but a bunch of dogs jumped on him.

"Stoooop!", Toypugal cried. The facepaint knight only roared at it, he was going to have his moment to shine, dammit! Blaster Blade approached, trying to quell his fury, but the Ace of the Sanctuary was only rewarded with a boot to his face. Gordon cringed, that kick was powerful. Lamorak's legs had to be quite something to support the weight of his armor and axe.

"... Alright, now you've done it", Blaster Blade broke his composure.

"You want a piece of me?!"

Blaster Blade and Lamorak suddenly began duking it out! The other rearguards chanted "Fight! Fight! Fight!", even putting money down on the fight! Though the Ace was an expert swordsman, Lamorak's overwhelming prowess with a colossal weapon was not to be underestimated! Fierce blows inducing shockwaves that shook the room, Alfred simply let out a sigh. Letting them bicker, and Yukino didn't even bother to say anything to them either.

She was glad they were getting along, and even more so feeling like she improved a little. Deciding to pack away more of the sugar cookies, the queen hid behind more snacks to shy away with embarrassment from what Haruka blurted out.

... It looked like Satoshi fell asleep though.

Well, the only solution was some more fights with Haruka. Hikari wasn't tired yet, the fight in her still burned!

Royal Paladin +10 Affinity
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 15, 2015, 07:46:34 AM: Haruka found himself getting another cup of coffee as Yukino insisted on more fights. Satoshi was peacefully passed out on the bed next to them, so Haruka grinned at the thought of more fights. More training. And more time with Yukino.

"Alright, let's do this. Stand up, My Vanguard!" Haruka chants, for every one of their fights. A majority of these go to Yukino, as Haruka expected. He actually never expected to take a game off of her, however a couple of freak double criticals or 6th damage heals come his way, giving him leeway to counterattack or finish the games.

The morning sun is shining up as the two finish what seems to be their last Cardfight for the night. "Jeez. You really do not let up, huh? And you call me a jerk." Haruka laughs a bit. Haruka was starting to crash off of his 4th cup of coffee that night. He throws his remaining hand down as he takes a 6th damage. Three Blazing Flares. Nothing to guard the last attack anyways.

"Well. It was a decent night, huh?" Haruka laughs a bit more and looks back at Yukino. His eyes fix on her for a bit longer. Taking in her image. He's always been bad at remembering people's actual faces. Typically names are what he's good with, but images don't usually stick. However he wanted this one to last. A great memory.

"Hey, er, I'm sorry about what happened earlier. That was totally uncalled for. I thought you were really sick..." Haruka looks over to the sun coming in through the window. "Well. You're obviously not interested anyways, so it's a good thing that's all that happened, huh? Or this would be really embarrassing." Haruka laughed, emptily this time. His eyes fix on her one last time. "It was fun. Thanks for having me, and Satoshi, over." With that, Haruka's signature smile swoops in. This time, accompanied by a sleepy voice and bags under Haruka's eyes. He stretches and lies down on the floor, taking a pillow from the bed and puts it under his head.

"Good night, er, morning, Yukino."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 15, 2015, 07:57:30 AM: "Stand up, Vanguard!", for every last fight she called upon the white and blue knights. Full of confidence, Yukino went in with gusto... a little too much actually. Her inexperience with Kagero caused some of her early rushes to be heavily punished with countering retires. To make matters worse, Haruka began scoring some double critical rips, adding onto his harsh retaliation. Slowly, but surely, she learned how to deal with an 11000 powered Vanguard, a 1000 stage that made a lot of difference. Also, picking up on how to deal with retires by not throwing out everything to get retired was learned as well. Figuring out the flame dragons was a new game in itself.

"Stand up!", she shouted again. For probably the first time in years, Yukino kept a smile on her face. Not one of superiority, but one if her own genuine happiness.

Vanguard sure is fun, the Chosen Sword noted.

After awhile, Yukino's energy began giving out. It was hard to make out was Haruka was saying to her, she only noticed that the last game went to her. Letting out "this was really fun...", the snow angel finally clocked out. Completely exhausted, she simply laid down on her side. What her friend said became a drowned, garbled mess, but she could make out some of it before drifting off.

"I... didn't mean... that I wasn't... inter..."

Using the last bits of stamina to mutter, the snowy blue eyes were closed.

Dad Espoir strolled by with his morning coffee, peering into the room, seeing all three of them out like lights. "Heh", he gave a grin, taking a sip as he went on about his day.

Haruka +2 Affinity
Satoshi +2 Affinity
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 15, 2015, 11:55:59 AM: Hana strolled into the room in the morning, feeling much more pride in the sight than some strange awkward feeling. She felt a tingling happiness in her heart for her own sister. A bow was given to the other two, passed out cold, obviously tired from the full night of Cardfights. She giggled a little, as this signed reminded her of what she would do with Mii-Hime during practices. A sincere feeling came from the bottom of her heart, "thank you both for doing this for my nee-san." She walked up to her sister, still sounds asleep. The power of a Vanguard, Hana believed, comes from one's genuine feelings of happiness and fun from the heart, something that she felt that her own sister had been lacking until now.

"Just like Alfred, you'll gain power like your pals." Hana walked up to Yukinee, still sound asleep. She hugged her sister, feeling her soft and warm body against hers. She then moved back a little, her sister's beautiful face coming into full view. A card was in Hana's hand, and she placed it on her sister's chest for her to see when she wakes up.

"I now call upon you to be a Knight of Cray, Yukino, the wielder of the light that can change the world."

Hana walked out of the room, once again thanking her sister's comrades. She herself was in need of some sleep as she had been kept up all night, helping with organizing Cray's Alliance. Many mistakes were made and she had to constantly rely on her Bermuda Triangle to teach her a thing or two about her decision-making. She got a good deal of bonding in with them as well as learned a lot for herself, she was getting into the swing of being a princess. She giggled a little recalling that her sister always referred to herself as "The Queen." She then looked back at her nee-san from outside the room. "Who knew that it was this much fun?" She let out a faint smile as she continued towards the hallways, going back to her room.

"Exculpate the Blaster," Hana's soft voice whispered.

Affinity:
Yukinee: +3
Overlordo: +2
Geodude: +2
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 15, 2015, 06:02:02 PM: The mysterious card of light that represented "transcendence" on Yukino's chest shined brightly, fortunately not waking any of the triad up. It sunk into her chest, being absorbed into the Vanguard's body. This destiny was infused into the queen, and Blaster Blade himself, awaking him with an odd feeling. Though, feeling a rising heat in chest, the girl rolled over, letting out an annoyed groan. Fading away, heat dissipating, she managed to stay asleep, soundly snoring away.

In the middle of the day, shining gleams of the sun caressed the queen's face... and it greatly aggravated her. Unable to sleep with the heat and the bright light, despite not sleeping under a blanket, she arose. Waking up with a rude alarm, that alarm being the relentless summer warmth. Giving off a long yawn and stretching, obviously not having gotten enough rest, she looked over to the others. Yukino's boys were still out like lights. Offering a small smile, rising to her feet, she needed a shower to get ready for the day.

There were plans in preparation.

Plans for victims.

The triad failed to leave their mark in the world with an official tournament, however, it was decided that wouldn't be their end. There were other ways to go about it, and she still had her duty as the Chosen Sword to fulfill. Leaving to her room, she stopped. ... Her majesty really liked these clothes. It was sort of a shame to let them have their moment only for one night, the "gross" feeling of being "casual" had gone away. They were comfortable and the idea of being casual was comfortable. Going off toward the shower, she stated that she'd like her black top and shorts to be quickly washed. The cleaners moved with godspeed.

Letting out a soft cry of joy from being pelted with cold water due to being so goddamn hot, the queen went on to melt into bathing as the water warmed up.

"So who won the fight yesterday?", she questioned about Blaster Blade's and Lamorak's duel.

"... Soldiers from the future are quite powerful... even with my expertise", her Avatar answered, all of them having woken up in the space of her mind.

"Did you lose?"

"Lamorak is strong, but..." he coughed, clearing his throat: "nevertheless I won-"

"My ass! Don't go lying to Hikari!" Lamorak shouted, getting the morning started. "Palamedes had to break it up!"

"Look, I was going in for the finishing blow, the win was in my hands."

"Has the concept of 'dodging' ever made itself known to you?!"

Yukino gave a quiet giggle, feeling happier than ever. A maid entered, announcing that her clothes were ready, sitting down a basket. The queen thanked her, then contemplated today's schedule: fight, fight, and fight more. The only solution to get better was experience, and yesterday showed her that she had none of it. Time to have some fun for once, and obtain skills born from simple joy, thrill conceived from the game. Today, she was the "Chosen Sword" off duty. Finishing up, drying off, and getting dressed in what's becoming her new favorite outfit... the queen returned to the guest room for a moment.

Leaving a sheet of paper taped to the door for the boys, she departed.

Satoshi, try Sunlight Forest and Frontline Valkyrie. Haruka, maybe consider Flame Edge Dragon to build up soul for Blazing Flare Dragon. I know you both told me to drop Gancelot, but I'm going to keep trying with a single copy of him.

Anyway, once you two get up, meet me at Card Capital. Bring your decks, we have work to do.

Yuki~

She even doted her I's with little hearts.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 15, 2015, 06:36:00 PM: Haruka finds himself awaking to the sound of dishes rustling around. "Must be a maid.. or something." He sits up, bedhead x10, clothes very disheveled. "I could really use-" Just as Haruka was expressing his desire for another cup of coffee, the butler who made it the first time strolls in to the room with a cup, smiling.

"Here you are, sir." Haruka smiling like a giddy child takes the coffee and thanks him again. "Oh, by the way, you can call me Haruka! Sir is a bit too formal for me." The butler tilts his head, and then smiles once more. "Haruka, is it? Yes, okay then. Haruka." The butler repeats his name a couple of times. To which he then bows, and disappears out of the room. Haruka looks around the room noticing something is missing. Or in this case, somebody.

"Yukino?" Haruka searches about the room, finding a note taped to the door. He sits on the bed next to the still sleeping Satoshi. "Hey, you, wake up. Dude, get uuuuuppp." Bugging him to wake up like a child waking up their parents on Christmas, he finally manages to wake the sleeping farm boy. "Yukino went over to Card Capital. We should probably get over there, huh?" Haruka nods over to the still groggy boy, making sure he's understanding, despite being half asleep.

"Yeah, Card Capital. Let me get dressed then..." Satoshi walks over and takes off the cover he was wearing, revealing his shirtless body.

"Damn." Was the only response Haruka could come up with upon the sun's glow shining around the outline of Satoshi. He was extremely well built, from the waist up, and the calves down. No doubt he has quadriceps of steel, too. Satoshi looked over, still too tired to comprehend the situation. "Ehehe, it's nothing." Haruka was definitely not going to be able to face Satoshi ever again if he stares at this Adonis any longer.

Satoshi puts on the itchy shirt he was provided last night, and Haruka retrieves his sweater which the maids had washed the blood out of. "Thank you all, so much." He nods, finishing his coffee and putting the sweater back on. as he and Satoshi head out from the Espoir Estate. He looks at the letter again.

I's dotted with hearts. Cute.

"Alright, let's go dude. Don't wanna keep Her Majesty waiting." Haruka starts his mini dash to the inner city, Satoshi close on his heels.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 16, 2015, 11:14:20 AM: Satoshi marched his way up the long pathway to the Espoir Mansion. Along the way, Seph had told him about the Rift and its purpose in the war, making decisive moves against the balance of Cray in favor of throwing it into some kind of chaos. He learned that the person who was given the power to cause this change was the man with blonde hair he met the first day he was in the city, apparently named Jellal Kisaragi. Bastard. His disdain for discovering Satoshi's friendship with Neo Nectar was frustrating and infuriating. How could a man like that be given the power to change the tide of war?

Jellal -10 AP

He reached the steps and walked up them. His thought process for being here wasn't just to make sure Yukino and Hana were alright. No, those thoughts had settled in on the way other; the pain the queen must've felt to lose touch with her beloved Royal Paladins, the crushing blow that her younger sister experienced so soon after Pacifica's crowning...these losses were not to be trifled with to any exent.

His purpose here was different. The Espoir girls played a huge part in Cray's current war...but what's to say that their parents weren't involved in it as well? The huge lion of a man, Mr. Espoir, with his brute strength and yet clear wisdom and intellect...there's no way he wasn't familiar with what was going on, or felt what all of the supposed champions of Cray felt all around the world. This was not an easy loss. In fact, today, unlike two nights ago, Satoshi believed Mr. Espoir would not consider him a threat to his daughter, but instead a partner in fixing what the Rift had wrought upon the Earth.

He reached to ring the doorbell, but a sudden spike in anger, realizing that his leaving early from Card Capital could've helped play some sort of role in preventing this, changed his decision-making process to banging on the double doors, and backing away to shout at the balcony window, left open for a bit of a breeze.

"I NEED AN AUDIENCE WITH MR. ESPOIR!" he shouted up. "IT'S ABOUT HIS DAUGHTERS!"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 16, 2015, 05:50:49 PM: Christ, the country bumpkin was back. Natural disdain arose in the hearts of the servants, how dare he show no class? He was just another peasant who worked for the benefit of the rich anyway. Father Espoir didn't care for their irate gazes, and came down to answer the door himself. As if he knew precisely why Satoshi was here. Opening it, the enormous man of power gazed down at his guest, but it was not a threatening glare. It was a calm glance, ready to hear the boy out.

"Come inside", wasting no time, Satoshi was invited through the gate.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 16, 2015, 06:33:10 PM: Satoshi walked through and stared briefly at the behemoth of a man who let him in. The look in his eyes...he did know. Or, at least, if he didn't, he knew something and could maybe help determine what the next course of action was. That was his hope.

Upon being let in, Satoshi sighed, calming himself a bit. If the lion was so willing to let what should be his prey into his den, then there was no reason to be so agitated. He bowed to the servants he met inside. "Apologies for the rude awakening, something happened on short notice." The servant who lent him clothes bowed back and directed him to a meeting room, with two comfortable chairs sitting in front of a huge desk and a huge, revolvable, leather office chair. <This must be his office...> he thought as he seated himself juxtaposed to the giant chair.

What he didn't notice was that Seph had decided to materialize himself in the other seat.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 16, 2015, 06:40:10 PM: The servants were scattering and running around the house, all the while also constantly knocking on her door. They asked her what she needed, but there was no answer. She wasn't giving them a cold shoulder or any harsh words, no, anger wasn't being taken out on them, the servants understood that... that's why they were trying so hard. Hana wasn't ignoring them, she heard the maids and butlers knocking on her door, asking her if she needed anything, fetching her whatever she required. At first she tried to answer them, her mouth would open, she would suppress her tears. But before a single sound could come out, she would choke, and she would begin to feel her sadness and would become mute due to her state.

This was who Hana was, frail and insecure, unable to handle such intense emotions. She naturally has a large amount of stage freight, is very sensitive.. very frail... and is scared of many things. This is where Bermuda Triangle would console her, before she reached this point. The very fact that this sadness was due to their absence pit her deeper into the feeling of loneliness.

On Cray she could hear the Royal Paladin Knights, they were training outside. The sound of clashing swords, their roars vigorous yet at the same time feeling hollow. They were also afraid, they too needed someone with them. "Yukino... where are you.." Hana thought to herself. After each clash of blades, after each metallic sound, there would be a large thud on the ground, only for the noise of practice to continue once more.

"We must fight for the princess! We cannot let this happen again!" Blaster Blade commanded the rest of the knights, his breath almost exhausted, he was probably pushing himself the hardest, taking in the most blame.

That is, until the next knight entered the grounds, someone who for the longest time was beyond the title of "Knight."

"Ahmes, I'll be your next sparring partner... this'll be just like we used to back then." He let out a proud grin, hiding his regret and, hiding his feelings regarding his own weakness. He released his sword, an got into his stance, prepared to battle his close comrade.

The other knights looked upon the scene, dumbfounded. At the same time, they felt admiration, and cheered. Hana heard their happiness and increasing morale, a soothing a warm feeling of comfort coming onto her as a result.. it was strange. After the Knights had finished their training, Hana was still in a similar, feeling only a little better. On the other hand, the holy knights had found a new strength through the sight of their King as if he was in his younger days... the knight whom they loved and adored.

Alfred was the first to speak to her. She appeared on Cray yet again, with Alfred in front of her.
"As a king, I've failed to command my knights and my people effectively, I've failed to save my allies... the honor of such a title... the title of king does not suit me until I regain the trust of the Chosen Sword as well as that of the Princess of Cray. I will not stand above my comrades in status, and I will fight alongside them until I see that my own honor is regained... and that all is well again. "

He bowed down to the princess, donning his old attire from his younger days. His armor was slightly rusted, and his cape was torn from many battles. On his knees, was the king of all knights, he had humbled himself in order to regain his honor as well as the honor of his own comrades. He began to speak again.

"Behold and see the king as he once was, in his younger days, as he blazed a trail with his Knights. Alfred Early!"

With that, Hana let out a faint smile, which eventually turned into a giggle, then into a laugh.

"Alfred, you're so cheesy..."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 16, 2015, 07:02:32 PM: Alfred chuckled, and the Royal Paladins found some peace in their hearts. Seeing Alfred take the form of his younger days... Ahmes could only imagine how he felt, since the king back when he was initially crowned... Well, Blaster Blade might find himself out of a job if he speaks out loud. He simply laughed to himself over how goofy Alfred used to be, but could feel his majesty's glare... and stopped immediately.

The lion of a man took a seat in his personal chair, glancing over at the other "empty" seat, which was occupied by an astral being. His feelings toward this were impossible to tell, a stoic expression remained. Getting right down to business, resting his elbows on the desk, intertwining his own fingers, he spoke: "I'm aware of what happened with Yukino and Hana". Of course he was.

"Unless you want to get involved with a hopeless situation, I'd suggest abstaining from dealing with it", the lion continued. "Cray's in a mess, and right now, there's nothing we can do about it as long as the Dragon of Hell is decimating the Sanctuary."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 16, 2015, 08:18:31 PM: "Is it really that hopeless?" Satoshi crossed his legs. "I mean, the reason I came here is that I felt like, of all people, you would have an answer...they're your daughters and were chosen by Cray. You can't just sit there and tell me there's no point." His stare hardened. "I want to help them both as much as they can. They matter to me. They were my first friends, and without them I would've been some hick on the streets without any of a clue of what the future holds. I don't want to go back to that...I doubt anyone would."

He leaned forward a bit. "Please, Mr. Espoir...I need to help them. I don't care if I even die."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 16, 2015, 08:35:15 PM: A sigh, sprinkling sugar into his coffee. "Don't say something stupid like that, you dying won't help anyone."

"The reason I say this is hopeless is because everything was aligned with the calculations of the one who opened the rift. Hana becoming the Vanguard, Yukino's suffering, the civil war's rising climax, Jellal's efforts for Aqua Force's revival, every last bit of it was supposed to happen in order to be ruined", explained Father Espoir, confirming that he knows a great deal about everything happening. Along with some future insight reinforcing his "hopeless" stance. "They are my daughters, and I want to help them, but I know they're going to get through it because of one another already", the man continued. This wasn't knowledge of the future, this was radiating, fatherly faith. He took a drink of the caffeine, remaining rather calm, despite the despairing events and the people involved. The fact that two of them were his own children didn't seem to faze him, even with that faith he held.

"Same outcome happens no matter what we do. However, if you want to do something, start by being there for Hana. Yukino is a walking, power-hungry hound from what I can imagine. It'll take something strong to break her out of it, and you don't fit the bill to be the one", the lion was blunt. He made it clear what option Satoshi had that would at least bring success in the desire to save the two sisters, restoring their emotions. Sympathy is not what he had to offer, rather, an answer that the guest asked for.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 16, 2015, 08:45:52 PM: "But..." Satoshi wanted to protest; Yukino in particular he was truly worried for, and he wanted with all his heart to help her. Yet...the lion was right, wasn't he. He wasn't that strong to fight and snap her out of it, even if their bonds were tight. It would take a better force, one he wasn't acquainted with.

He sighed. "Where's Hana, then? I guess I'll go try to talk to her and understand better what's happening from her perspective." A servant volunteered to lead him to her, and he followed out, with another short bow to Mr. Espoir. "Thank you for telling me, at the very least, sir."

Mr. Espoir +2 AP

Seph did not follow his champion. He stayed behind, crossing his arms and still staring at Mr. Espoir. He knew that he was aware of his presence and could no doubt hear him, so he cleared his throat.

"Great Lion...do you not think that the boy can surpass his limits?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 16, 2015, 09:34:13 PM: "I never said he couldn't, I'm positive he can", the man responded to the spirit as Satoshi left. Booting up the nearby computer to get to work, he was about done with this conversation. "They all can", he continued. "But to fix this, strength isn't what they need, and that won't break Shadow Paladin's stranglehold on Yukino either. Nor will it bring back Bermuda Triangle."

He simply offered that.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 16, 2015, 11:38:24 PM: "...If you say so." Seph stood up, stretching. "Y'know, you should really consider getting involved again. The kids don't really know better."

He gave a casual wave as he went off to rejoin with Satoshi's deck.

---

After being led to Hana's room, Satoshi had a change of heart. He knew Mr. Espoir was right, that the best he could do right now would be to help Hana, but he couldn't just let his queen wander off. He had to find her, even if something was gravely, gravely wrong. He handed the servant a small note to give Hana, which read:

"Going to find your sister. I need you both together again to try and sort this out. See you soon!

~Geodude~"

It was crude handwriting, but readable nonetheless from the servant's perspective. Satoshi bowed for him before making a run out of the manor to find the city, rejoining Seph on the way. It was time to find Haruka and Yukino.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 17, 2015, 02:25:06 AM: "Nice formation everyone!" Hana clapped.

The knights were all worn down, sitting and breathing heavily. They were all sweating from a hard day of work practice. They were tired, but they were smiling, full of pride, power, and morale. Hana who had been training along with the holy order as well Garmore and his dogs has been feeling much better. After the session, Alfred and Blaster Blade greeted her a goodbye, as she was now ready to go and talk to her servants waiting outside.

She had apparently received a letter from Geodude speaking of looking for her sister.... to sort things out?

She packed her backs and placed the two Royal Paladin decks in them.

"Let's go minna!"
"Yeah!" The Knights chanted in unison.
"Woof."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 17, 2015, 03:02:50 AM: "Hana", Dad Espoir called out, knowing that his daughter was about to leave. "You're the only one who can fix your sister, so she can fix her own mess", he began. "But know that strength alone cannot win back our beloved, nor can the heart by itself either."

The lion brute of a man passed her, sipping his coffee. "So show her the answer you found beyond despair."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 17, 2015, 07:24:52 PM: Yukino had been left in a deep sleep, not having fallen asleep since going to Card Capital or eaten since the ordeal with Jellal. It was a bit worrying to the servants, but Dad Espoir assured them she's just making up for lost time. The queen was in a rather peaceful state of mind, happily snoozing the day away...

If only her dream was that peaceful.

Yukino, of course, was called upon Cray. Though, surprisingly, it wasn't about business or anything. Ahmes personally called her out into an empty wasteland portion of the United Sanctuary. Blaster Blade insisted she be there for this and off to the side, as things could get... messy. Naturally, she was confused. Whenever "Why bring me here?" or "Why here?" was inquired, the swordsman simply told her to wait, and everything would be revealed. Childishly pouting, she had no choice but to comply. After awhile, the winds picked up, fiercely blowing in their direction. Looking off to the side, the ace of darkness was approaching - Blaster Dark.

"Yunos...?" Yukino called out, but he didn't respond to her. He stood a distance away from Ahmes, facing him.

"So we're going to settle this now? While Phantom Blaster Overlord is killing everyone?" The black swordsman questioned, believing now was a terrible time.

"That is exactly why we must do this now", his counterpart retorted. The two summoned their swords in blue and black electricity, taking readied battle stances.

"Whoa whoa, hold on! What the hell are you two doing?!" The Vanguard shouted, getting their attention.

"Settling everything, I'd guess", Yunos replied. "Who gets you for a Vanguard, what happens to the traitors overall with the Princess' decision, and what we do next."

"You two have to fight for that?!"

"Yes we do, Hikari. Words fail the both of us, so it simply has to be this way", Ahmes explained, accepting battle as a way to convey feelings.

The blasters of fate spark one another's fury (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=duuec5Ybtps) by just glaring at each other. Light and Courage angering Dark and Resolution. Letting this linger for no longer, they charged at one another, bashing their swords together. Blaster Blade had the advantage of being more nimble, especially with a thinner weapon, so he quickly got to Yunos' side and took a swipe. Blaster Dark took the hit, but retaliated by banging his enormous sword on Ahmes' helmet. To add onto this strike, the black swordsman followed up by hastily smashing his rival into the ground. Then, going in for a stab, Blaster Blade rolled away as fast as he could to dodge. The sword of resolution summoned purple lightning from its tip, traveling across the terrain to harm its target. Ahmes responded by propelling himself into the sky and launching a storm of blue electricity, shocking Yunos while ceasing his attack. Yunos regained his composure and began chasing after the swordsman of light. Ahmes led him across the battlefield, and Yukino ran with them.

She couldn't miss this for the world.

Yunos suddenly became a black blur, flashing over to the side of his opponent with inhumane speed. In an attempt to strike Ahmes down, the holy knight kicked his rival in the shin! Losing his balance, the least he could do to pay him back was a ferociously powerful punch in the face. Blaster Blade flew into his queen, but she caught him. A hasty "thanks", she pushed him back at his opponent. Grinning, Yunos fired a blast of lightning as Ahmes was regaining his balance. Knowing he couldn't dodge in time, the sword of courage flew into the earth, repeating the earlier attack the sword of resolution made - lightning traveling on the ground. The two were struck, but the pain caused them to roar furiously, trekking through the shock to collide into one another. Coated in the other's electricity, they butted heads, smashed shoulders together, and clashed with their swords.

"You know, I'm still never going to get used to you. Just looking at you pisses me off!" Yunos yelled, trying to push his rival back in the struggle.

"Ha... I can't say the feeling's mutual, because I rather enjoy this", Ahmes calmly spoke, not giving an inch.

"Heh, I didn't say I wasn't enjoying this either", the swordsman of darkness laughed, taking a hand off of his sword. He grabbed the light, and tossed him into the air. Yunos supercharged the blade with power, and threw it like a circular-saw. The sheer weight of the sword of resolution was not something easily stopped, even with the sword of courage. Lack of aerial balance from being thrown, the only option was Ahmes throwing his own sword right back. They deflected one another, falling into Cray's soil.

Launching himself at Ahmes, Yunos kneed him in the stomach. Relentless was his assault - driven by his raging jealousy. Ahmes had to match that passionate emotion, so he reached out with an arm. The Sword of Courage reacted, flying out of the ground to its master. Instead, it stabbed into Blaster Dark's back - piercing through the armor, but not enough to wound him. This was all that was needed though, as burning light engulfed Yunos, being fired from the blade at point-blank range. Screaming in agony, he got kneed back by Blaster Blade into the ground. Ahmes couldn't help but give a smug smirk that told his rival "Karma's a b-"

This triumphant smirk was quickly wiped off his face as Yunos used a similar tactic. Controlling the broadsword via telepathy, it began rapidly slashing at Blaster Blade. Having no way to counter, he took all the hits, falling from the sky all the same. In an act of desperation, Yunos plucked the Sword of Courage out of the ground. It wouldn't activate, but it was still a weapon! Seeing this, Ahmes had to act quickly. Taking up the Sword of Resolution while rising to his feet, they charged at one another once again. A shockwave blowing away bits of the earth was unleashed, and even knocked Yukino down, who had been following them all around the war grounds.

After some time, the sun was finally setting... (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nMTloVZ-QLo) All three of them were laying down in a circle, sweating and panting. Yukino didn't even have much reason to be exhausted, but chasing these two around to not miss a moment was as harsh as the battle itself. The swords were planted into the ground next to each other, and the trio had smiles on their faces. There wasn't a clear winner, as the two blasters dropped to the ground at the same time, unable to continue.

"I'm glad I met you two", Yukino started them off.

"Ha... ha... I guess... meeting you guys... wasn't so bad..." Blaster Dark was content, which lit up the hearts of the queen and the light swordsman. There was so much more they wanted to say to each other, but they were all just too tired. A few moments later, Yunos started getting up. "Alright, you win."

"Huh?" Ahmes questioned this surrender, it was a tie. No need for that. He rose to his feet, and helped Hikari do the same.

"Yami, Ahmes. Here", Blaster Dark offered his sword.

"What? But..." Yukino and her light avatar were surprised by this gesture.

"I guess I'm not as willing to go through with killing you or following the Dragon of Hell anymore, so I don't need this thing... for now, anyway", he tried to rationalize. Seeing the green-eyed envious monster of a man... give something to the person he was most jealous toward...

"Yunos-"

"Don't get the wrong idea, Ahmes. I want this back later."

"... Very well."

Yukino watched as Blaster Blade took the enormous broadsword. Christ, it was heavy! In his exhausted state, Ahmes could barely hold it! Blaster Dark chuckled, muttering "weakling", a teasing jeer. As much as Blaster Blade wanted to bite back, he really couldn't considering the sheer weight of this thing. The queen smiled, happy to see her Avatars getting along. Yunos brought the Sword of Courage over to Ahmes, and his rival took it in the free hand. Suddenly, the two reacted to one another. Surprising the three, the two weapons merged! Blaster Blade suddenly held in his hands a large, glittery, transparent sword of pure energy. They stood in awe of this creation born by the reconciliation of comradeship, and Yukino's pupils morphed once again. On the left, a blue sword shape pointing downward, and on the right, a purple in the same direction.

A card appeared before her in her dream.

"Majesty Lord Blaster..." she named the weapon, getting the attention of the swordsmen.

"Well, well, look who gets to be a big shot", Yunos teased again, slapping Ahmes on the back. With how much the Sword of Resolution and this new weapon weighed, the swordsman of light's back wasn't exactly in the best of shape for a hit. He almost fell over, and Blaster Dark laughed at him. After he was finished messing with the back-broken ace, Yunos turned to Yukino.

"Yami- no... Hikari- no those don't work anymore. Yugure, Chosen Sword of Twilight, unleash your power of the Meister!" With a command, the queen fell into another trance. The majestic blade floated toward her, and its blueprints appeared in front of them. Tracing the weapon with sweeps of her hands, the sword was replicated, as was the card.

"Yugure... huh. Not light, nor shadow, but twilight..." Ahmes got used to the concept, understanding that it was more appropriate.

"End this war already", Yunos demanded, beginning to walk off. Entrusting the future to them.

"Thank you, Yunos... My avatar. ... Let's go too, Ahmes, who is also my avatar", Yugure expressed gratitude and dubbed them both hers. With a nod from Blaster Blade, her vision turned white.

Yugure awoke from her slumber with the Majesty Lord Blaster card on her chest. Taking it, smiling, Yukino hastily prepared herself for the rest of the day. Trading out her casual attire for her royal garbs, Queen Yugure departed from the Espoir household with new purpose.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 19, 2015, 05:23:32 AM: Satoshi arrived at the manor carrying a surprising amount of stuff in a huge sack tied to his back. By strange coincidence, his family had sent him a literal feast: fresh meats, vegetables, dairy...even that ice cream he had mentioned to Haruka, not too long ago. He felt it would be best to share a nice amount of this family gift with his friends, since otherwise, before long, the food would go bad. It was best to consume it sooner rather than later.

A couple servants saw him and let him in, expecting his arrival from contact ahead of time. He gave the best bow he could and kept on walking up to the manor's double doors. Two more servants let him in, and he made a beeline for the dining room. Calling for the help of some of the butlers, he arranged the feast in preparation for their return. He couldn't wait to see how much Yukino and Haruka would enjoy naturally grown and raised food.

Meanwhile, Seph smiled, watching over Satoshi's preparation. He was more than likely to eat enough food to pass out, and then...then he would have a chance to talk with Yugure and the Seraphim about what was going on in the world. They both saw it and knew each other had seen it. It was time they got some of the answers they deserved.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 19, 2015, 05:43:53 AM: I've never spent this long in front of a damn mirror.

Haruka was on his third cup of coffee that evening after getting home. He had been a bit worried about tonight and how to address himself. Last time he was there, he almost died. But at the same time, he wanted to make a really good impression this time around.

"Hrmm, maybe this tie? Eh..."

"I told you already, go with the red one, ya dolt!"

"Shut up, Vortimer! I get it. But don't you think she'd like the blue one?" Haruka turns around, where an ethereal knight, dressed in all black armor stood there.

Scout of Darkness, Vortimer. The Grade 1 piece to the Spectral Duke ride chain. It seems Haruka wasn't hearing a dragon at all, but an actual knight. He still wasn't exactly used to it.

"Okay, so blue or red?" Vortimer sighed and shook his head.

For, once in a blue moon, Haruka was ditching his scarf tonight... Sort of. He was keeping it in his backpack for just in case he felt too uncomfortable without it on. Haruka found himself dressing up at nearly one in the morning, for what? He was just going to change into sleeping clothes soon after he arrived.

"Come on, this is my one excuse to wear the ties my Uncle got me. Now help me out here!"

After another fifteen or so minutes of picking through clothes, Haruka ended with a linen dress shirt, dark slacks, a pair of loafers he never broke in before, and a blue and white striped tie. "Eh, good enough." Vortimer was literally done with Haruka's shit for the night. He just wanted to get at Garmore's throat again.

Haruka made it into the Espoir Estate after a couple of name checks. He approached the door, and a friendly face showed up.

"Haruka, sir! Come in, please! I'll make you a cup of coffee." He was already ecstatic. "Y-Yeah, sure! Thank you very much, I appreciate it."

With that settled, Haruka wanted to make himself a little comfortable, waiting for Satoshi, Yukino and Hana to show up, but he wasn't exactly sure how to go about getting that done. He scratched his head and decided to take a look around the building. He'd never been in any place other than the main living room and guest bedroom, so this was mostly a new experience.

"So Vortimer, what's it like over there." Haruka questioned his new mate about Cray. If he could get any new information now, that'd be a great asset. Unfortunately, Vortimer was unlikely to respond after such a battering about his appearance back at Haruka's house. So no such response was given, other than a grunt from the black knight.

"Fine, have it your way then."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Azuki Frappé on August 19, 2015, 05:51:49 AM: Ighanna and her chauffeur sends the four people off at the Espoir Mansion, a second thought came to her mind, lets greet Mr. Espoir because she hasn't seen him ever since she was very young. The mansion looks quite similar to before as she can recall some of the things like the wallpaper however there seems to be a lot more fancy furnitures, Barbara Barry Chairs, Fendi Sofas and a Sub-Zero Fridge, good taste she thought. The butler then approached her and so she replied that she wanted to greet Mr. Espoir. It was also getting late and her stomach is growling even after the ice cream, and in Neo's case dog food, she deeply wishes Mr. Espoir would invite her for dinner.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 19, 2015, 06:08:31 AM: Great, everyone else being hungry made Yugure hungry. It didn't help that ever since her ordeal with Shadow Paladin, she's been forgetting to eat more and more. The queen has been sort of a mess, lately. She didn't notice that she was the first to bolt out of the limo to get inside. The doors opened, welcoming the queen and princess back home. Yukino motioned Miyuki and Ighanna in too, inviting them for the sleepover. With a growling stomach, however, she quickly turned away and blushed. One of the maids quickly got on her case for skipping every meal before leaving to Card Capital. An apology was given, but said maid was sure this would happen again...

A sigh of remorse, she left to go check the Guest Room for Satoshi and Haruka.

The butler who understood Ighanna's request went to fetch Father Espoir, who was playing poker online instead of actually working...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 19, 2015, 06:14:33 AM: Satoshi noticed Yukino and Haruka were around, wandering the house. Didn't they smell the food when they walked in?...

"Hey!" He waved his arms, catching sight of Yukino, still wearing the tanktop from before. "C'mere, I've got a surprise for you in the dining room! Get someone to grab Haruka!" He was really desperate for their approval, even if he already had it, technically.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 19, 2015, 06:14:49 AM: Haruka heard doors open, a smile rose to his face. He set his backpack down by this side as he heard people pouring in. The voice of a maid was heard, and so was the voice of who he believed to be, err, Queen Elizabeth? Wait, no, it was Ighanna. Right.

"Hoh, hello? I'm in here!" Haruka sent a light holler down the hallway. He originally had intended to go straight to guest room, but he was given coffee and a small message to go to the dining room.

Haruka doesn't know how to get to the dining room. He can't even find the kitchen, let alone a dining room. He sips his coffee a bit longer, staring at the all the ornaments in the house. "It really is nice in here." He adjusts his tie once more in a hallway mirror, fixing his hair and all. "I wonder if I look weird."

"You do."

"Oh NOW you talk, huh?" Haruka was a little salty. Just a little.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 19, 2015, 06:18:59 AM: Driven mad by her famished state, when Satoshi said a surprising in the dining room, she wasted no time at all. Zipping to Haruka almost like a blur, the queen took him by the hand, and yanked him in the right direction to whatever food that was in there. Yugure needed to eat, but if she ate regularly in the first place, this wouldn't happen.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 19, 2015, 06:24:18 AM: It only took a moment for Haruka to realize he was suddenly being dragged at Mach 5. "H-Hey, slow down! Where are we going!" He can't really see in front of him at this panicked state. All he realizes is that he's moving at an incredible pace down some stairs and through hallways until-

"So. Much. Food." Haruka was in a state of absolute awe staring at the banquet laid out upon a long white tablecloth. "Where... Where did this come from?" Haruka pointed to all the food on the table.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 19, 2015, 06:34:25 AM: Satoshi grinned from ear to ear as he saw Yukino run up, dragging a rather nicely dressed Haruka by his dress shoes' heels. No need to be so fancy, but...he did look pretty good, albeit just a tad goofy given who he was.

"Well, welcome to...the greatest Kurosaki Farms feast ever created!" He opened the double doors of the dining hall to reveal...

Tables of food. So many tables of food. There were tables devoted to the meats: chicken, turkey, ham, steak. Tables for fruits: melons, apples, bananas, grapes. Tables for vegetables: carrots, potatoes, corn. Tables of cheese, homemade noodles...and of course, a table in the back with Satoshi's favorite frozen delight: homemade ice cream.

All of this, gifted to him by his father after finally receiving his letter about what had happened in the first few months of being on his own. The funny part was that there was so much food here, and yet, he hadn't even brought it all; he still had enough small portions left to eat another week without buying food back at Haruka's place. He had his own personal fridge; that was one of the more recent accommodations he acquired.

He extended his arms, showing all the food. "What do you guys think? This is complement of my family, since I never got to bring you guys down over the past couple months." He adjusted his glasses, then gave a wink and a grin with a thumbs-up. "All-natural and homemade. I guarantee it's all good."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 19, 2015, 06:41:42 AM: "Don't tempt me like that man-" Haruka's stomach became a rolling thunder, producing a sound similar to a roar. "I-uh." Haruka looks around nervously before proceeding to awkwardly grab one of the turkey platters and a soda. "I'm just gonna.. yeah" Haruka starts to nearly shovel food into his mouth, curing the hunger pangs brought on from drinking coffee without eating anything with real sustenance that day.

"Mmmm, dis is SHO good!" Haruka praises Satoshi and his family for the good food. He sits down in a chair at the end of the table almost, digging in to his heart's content.

"Oh..." Haruka stops for a moment, embarrassed, and swallows his food. "Thank you for the food!" He then proceeds to devour his body weight in meat and mashed potatoes.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 19, 2015, 06:57:30 AM: Yukino pushed Haruka out of her way before he gets started. Manners be damned, the queen was starving. Practically drooling over everything, she horded meat like it was her job. The snow woman even hissed at anyone trying to stop her or call out to her. Nothing the Espoir servants could do except let her rampage... At least the maid that scolded her a few minutes ago pulled out a chair for her.

Yugure then proceeded to half-ass grace and thanks, immediately digging in. A ravenous queen gave up on thought process and nearly choked a few times trying to devour everything whole.

Garmore and Ezel wanted some of that... but she would probably kill them too...

Dad Espoir entered the dining room and sighed at the sight of his daughter's lack of class at this moment. He gave greetings to all his guests.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 19, 2015, 07:01:16 AM: A sweatdrop formed behind Satoshi's head. They certainly were...hungrier than he expected. Good thing he brought plenty. In fact, it was actually enough to share with more people, too. He gestured over to the servants. "C'mon, there's plenty. No matter how much these two eat there's still going to be a lot left over, so feel free." Some of the servants still remained a little reluctant, but others turned to each other, shrugged, and got themselves plates.

With a firm smile on his face, the farmboy who made it all happen got his own plate of food and began eating, thanking his parents for the blessing of food to bring everyone together once again.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 19, 2015, 07:08:03 AM: It only took Haruka a few seconds to notice the breakneck speed Yukino was eating. He stopped and stared for a moment as everything from her plate went to her mouth without as much as a second thought. He turned to Satoshi, pointed silently, then looked back at her. She could be scary sometimes. This is one of those times.

"It's not going anywhere Yukino... You have time." Haruka tilted his head. "Uh, err-" He shook is head, starting to take his meal a bit slower. He found his hunger pangs had decreased, so he went ahead and snagged the ice cream that Satoshi brought. Supposedly it was really good, but he had to taste it himself. Let the judgement begin.

Hmm.... hmm..... mmmmmm...

"This. Is. Amazing." He gnawed down his bowl of ice cream in seconds. So much for savoring the meal...

Despite such an amazing feast and such, Haruka was a little upset that the charm from the suit seemed to be weak. No response was elicited from anybody it seemed. Well, it was a worth a shot. Haruka rolls up the sleeves of the shirt, loosens the tie up and heads to the dining room door, stuffed. "Hey guys, I think I'm gonna head to the guest room. I'm actually pretty beat after all this and need to relax a little." Haruka waves to Mr. Espoir with a sincere smile.

Less tension equals less pressure. Haruka walks out, breathing a sigh of relief. He ruffles his hair up a bit and heads to the guest room, a little disappointed. The evening was nice, and he was full. "Maybe next time or something." He ends up shrugging the entire thing off and heading to the bedroom, lying down on the mattress. It was his turn this time after all, Satoshi took the bed last time.

"Yeah.. maybe next time." Haruka begins to peacefully rest on the bed, eyes closing, dozing off rather quickly.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Azuki Frappé on August 19, 2015, 10:07:56 AM: "Hello Mr. Espoir. Nice to meet you, my name is Ighanna R. Colberg, I hope you remember me because my father, Mr. Colberg, was your friend. I even came here long time ago" Ighanna stood up as she greeted the figure.

"If you don't mind, I'll join in on this dinner, theres a lot of food and it'll be a shame not to finish it" Ighanna turned around and said to Yukino, however she was actually hungry, as spoilt as she is, wasting food isn't quite the priority here. Asides from that the luring scent of the deliciously cooked meat drew her in, along with the colorful assortments of sauces, fresh ripe fruits and other several emerald green garnishes which acted as a rope tied to her stomach, dragging her towards the food. Finally she sat down and with her utensils ready, she dug in as swift as leopard.

Her silver fork pierced into the golden brown flesh of the meat, spilling an overflowing amount of juice. The second later she flung her wrists, pulling the piece of tender beef onto plate with some of the excess juice and oil sprinkling around in the air, she could see a rainbow for a split second. She then closed her eyes and scaled her nose through the selection of sauces like how a pianist would scale his fingers across the piano, suddenly she stopped and then used her butter knife to scoop the golden, aromatic cube which looked like a bouillon and slathered it across her piece of juicy meat. Soon the cube melted down like butter and a waft of parsley diffused in the air in front of her. It was Cafe de Paris! A sauce made of butter mixed with herbs and flavored with a hint of curry powder. Then she took her sharp meat cutting knife and sliced through the meat in order to bring out a perfectly bitesized meat, however just before cleanly slicing through she began to tear it instead to prevent the supremely annoying sound of knife slicing on a ceramic plate. The insides of the meat are perfectly crimson red, the flesh inside is still intact, this is indeed the perfect rarity of them all, Medium Rare. She tested it by poking her finger onto the meat then her palms and nodded. Before entering the wide cave of her mouth, she dipped it in the excess sauce and it nearly melted in her mouth.

The second thing Ighanna wanted to try was the cold platter; ham. From Jamon Iberico to prosciutto, there was everything. Salami, parma, Ighanna could not resist herself and grabbed some of the mouthwatering processed meat from the ebony stone cutting board. Aligned next to it was a wild selection of high quality organic cheese, from cheddar to brie, however her favourite combination had to be Blue Cheese with orange blossom honey, the hard yet chewy texture of the blue cheese along with the smooth honey combines perfectly not to mention the slightly salty and sweet contrasted by the distinct aroma of blue cheese with unique honey extracted from honey blossom. The prosciutto with fig jam was also surprisingly delicious, even though most people call it jelly, its jam you guys its jam. The truffle infused scent of the prosciutto along with the light salty flavor goes very well with the soft yet cooked type of ham, with the jam contrasting the temperature making it a very light dish after her heavy meat.

She still wasn't satisfied and tried some more main course, this time being the lamb, which is a meat famous for its distinct smell of rawness which some people dislike. However this baby lamb was cooked perfectly medium rare, garnished with rosemary to partially remove the smell. Despite this Ighanna thinks that it is what makes the lamb a unique type of meat, the warm juice flowing from each bite lures her to try more. The sauce to counter fatigue from eating lamb has to definitely be the mint jelly, yes this is jelly not jam. The refreshing sweet and sour along with aroma of mint contrast perfectly to cover out the smell a bit meanwhile the cold jelly melts as it fuses with the warm meat. Personally this was Ighanna's favourite sauce as it is extremely refreshing, to the point that it might as well be in a dessert, so this makes it lighter compared to the heavy Cafe de Paris. As a side dish for this she had baby carrots and corn dressed with gravy, however it was a little different. This gravy's smell is very recognizable, they must have used the earlier meat bones to simmer beef stock for this special brown and creamy gravy. It was supposedly to be eaten with the squashed butternuts for the pure white turkey breasts however it wasn't Christmas so she didn't feel like it.

For the homemade noodles, it tasted like homemade fresh, cold angel's hair pasta, and was cooked with fresh abalones and topped off with caviar and truffle oil. Despite being noodles, this dish tasted more extravagant than the other as the noodles itself was cooked al dente, meaning it wasn't too soft or hard, perfectly chewy yet slightly soft. The cold temperature of the dish along with Abalone and truffle oil's unique texture and smell made it extremely mouthwatering, as you chew the noodles and abalone away. Meanwhile the caviar was of perfect quantity and quality, the black pearls have a distinct salty flavor to the dish to contrast the abalone's natural seafood sweetness. After finishing half of the noodles, she was quite full and decided to proceed to desserts and fruits.

As a typical multiple course meal, Ighanna ate some ruby roman grapes, one of the most expensive and rare grapes grown with perfect glucose content level and temperature, moderated to the perfect size, she was surprised Satoshi's farm grew these. To pair these grapes would have to be the same selection of cheese, combining them together makes it both a dessert and a main course, perfect to shift her palette. Along with that she ate some bright yellow bananas, dipped with the organic homemade peanut butter and some freshly cut melons which flooded her mouth with sweet melon juice, this was extremely delicious and the flesh was of perfect hardness. The banana, melon, grape and cheese kind of acted like a petit-four dessert for her.

Finally to end her course was the ice cream, which was laid on top of some crumble and sided with a raspberry sauce, topped off with a swirl of caramelized yuzu skin. The ice cream was scooped into a quenelle, an extremely unique shaped, sort of like a rugby ball, which is mostly used in high-class meals. Despite being full, her stomach seemed to separate allowing her to fully consume the creamy ice cream that melts in her mouth. That was the end of her gourmet food meal, she thanked the Espoirs and Satoshi meanwhile said good byes to the others. Too bad there wasn't a sommelier present so she couldn't have wine pairing, different wines go well with different food after all. However she thought it would probably be a better idea as wine pairing gives you quite a lot of alcohol so she could possibly get drunk from that. After that her chauffeur picked her up and she headed back home, wishing she would meet the group again sometime later. Chauffeur-san was probably tired after sending the others home too so better give him some rest.

"Metatron I feel bad that you can't eat hehe" Ighanna mocked Metatron as she pouted. It was a tiring day after all, Ighana abused Metatron's knowledge quite a lot so she would have felt tired. "Sorry, maybe next time" she continued as she laughed off a little bit.

"Good Night" Metatron said sarcastically as the card went to rest.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 19, 2015, 08:26:16 PM: Yugure... ate so much she not only put on a few pounds but she completely crashed. Not only that, but this food-induced coma left the queen out like a light for the entire day. Everyone had been invited to different Guest Rooms, and she specifically requested Haruka and Satoshi stay in the same room with her like before. While Dad Espoir growled violently, he let it pass. The thought of speaking with Seph crossed mind, but the girl wound up clocking out before Satoshi did. It was only in the evening when she finally got up.

"Oh, damn!" Yukino shouted, realizing her plan to speak with that spirit might be gone. Not only that, but the whole day was gone!
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 19, 2015, 08:29:46 PM: Seph materialized behind Yukino and tapped her on the shoulder.

"Mornin', sleepyhead." He chuckled. "You all ate so much food yesterday. Hard to believe you're still alive, let alone awake."

He floated over to the couch and touched down, laying on it. Haruka and Satoshi had both passed out on the floor like she had.

"So, let's get down to business. What is it you want to know?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 19, 2015, 08:41:34 PM: Frankly, he was right. Last night, Yukino became more meat than human. Stifling a small burp left behind by yesterday's feast, Yugure rose up. She sat with her legs together, leaning toward the side casually, rubbing her thighs together. Pupils morphing into blades, she was ready to get down to business. Where to even begin was the first thought. Everyone's lack of knowledge of other clans? The beast that took away everything during the rallying of Paladins, including almost herself as Exculpate? Cray's state of affairs were bad enough as it was, but it felt like specifics and details were complete unknowns. There was just too many places to start with.

"What exactly is going on?" Was simply something she blurted out. Having to think of a follow-up quickly since that isn't specific, she picked a random topic. "Why is it no one, including Satoshi, remembers anything about certain clans?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 19, 2015, 09:03:39 PM: The morning had come and gone, meaning the evening sun was just now starting to come around. Haruka woke up with back pains and a splitting headache. His dream last night was rather interesting. Except Haruka would never tell anybody about it.

Too embarrassing.

Hmm... why is Satoshi in my room?

Haruka completely forgot that he had slept over at the Espoir Household, and still believes to be in his own room.

His perception is unfortunately very dulled out from last night and a lack of caffeine in his veins. "Mmmnhh... Wha..." Haruka stretched out his legs and arms across the bed, making a weird moaning sound as if he's in pain but also not. He then rubs his eyes and sits up. Satoshi is passed out nearby. His first idea would be to get out and go find a cup of coffee, until he realizes Yukino is awake too and in the room.

"Uh..."

Wait. What.

"... Y-Yukino..?" He reaches out.

Maybe I'm still dreaming. Before his hand reaches her, he finds himself falling off of the bed and hitting the floor with a solid thump.

"Hoh.. Not a dream." Haruka says, hanging off of the bed.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 19, 2015, 09:09:56 PM: Seph gave a slight half-smile before issuing a more stern look. "Fancy that being your first question. Albeit, it's one of the more important ones." He sat up, folding his arms.

"Well, the answer to that question is tied to a more important one, which is how all of this happened in the first place. From what I understand based on Ezel's contributions to the council, Yugure, you're well aware of what happened to Alfred, Ahmes and Yunos, and by proxy Pacifica and Dragonic Overlord. They were all locked away from Cray by a powerful being whose abilities were not exactly the most comprehendable."

He gave a slight smile. "If you're curious how we know this, it's because your father has some interesting ties to the Oracle of the Council of Cray, also known as the CEO of the clan Oracle Think Tank, Amaterasu." He gestured to Haruka's sleeping body. "She told us that you and the one they call the Seraphim here would be aware of the the changes in the universe due to your ties to the most significant role-players in Cray's existence, the ones who forever shape and reshape the world as we know it. Normally, I'd doubt her just a little, but..." He scratched the back of his ponytail-bearing head. "She was right about the revival of Aqua Force and the Dragon of Hell being shaped as one of the Rift's mighty forces."

Seph stared into Yugure's bladed eyes, stern look resuming. "The reason no one remembers the clans Royal Paladin, Kagero, Shadow Paladin, or Bermuda Triangle is entirely to do with one of the Rift's powerful generals. Because you and the Paladins were destined to break the order of clans by combining into one, unified force against the Dragon of Hell, the Rift has made its according move on the warpath chessboard. One of its generals has awakened alongside Aqua Force, due to the failure of the Dragon of Hell, and sealed away the forces most able to protect us." He shook his head. "And it is most unfortunate that this happened. The end result is that while Cray recognizes the existence of such heroes and has thus turned our normally peaceful Council of Cray into a War Council, those on Earth...are made oblivious by the sheer magnitude of power."

Seph stopped for a moment and rolled his eyes. "Well, that and most of us were told to not tell our champions because if we did, bad things were predicted to happen by Amaterasu. Things such as the sealing of even more clans." He narrowed them again. "We can't have that happen, and thus we swore to secrecy, except to the champions of those sealed away. That means that you, the Chosen Sword, Haruka, the Seraphim, your sister, the Princess of Cray, and..." He shook his head a bit at the last one. "Jellal Kisaragi. Those four, alongside your father, are the only ones completely aware of the changes in the world."

He shrugged. "At least, that's what I'd like to believe. I'm not certain all the heads of organization have kept their word. Take Metatron of Angel Feathers, for instance. I heard a rumor that she already told her champion everything. Whatever. If she's asking for another clan to get sealed away, that's her burden."

He leaned back a bit. "Anything else? I'm sure you're wondering about Limit Break, no?"

THUMP!

Seph looked over. "Oh, the Seraphim rises from his slumber, too. Good timing."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 19, 2015, 09:22:02 PM: As Seph explained the initial ground of the situation, the memories of that cyber terror kept flooding back. Visibly cringing, a lot of the past two months greatly bother her, and constantly at that. Remembering Ahmes and Yunos throw themselves in harm's way when she couldn't move was one of the more painful. Of course, she wasn't surprised by Father Espoir's connections to Cray's Megacorp. Amaterasu and those of the clan with foresight concerning suggestions of the future was frighteningly strong, especially Sakuya's.

Wait, did he just say Aqua Force awakened?!

"Hold on, what?! How is it possible Aqua Force was revived?! Jellal and I haven't done anything yet!" This promise was important, it was the driving force behind her getting to Jellal in the first place. If the Rift went ahead and did it anyway, whilst warping time-space by eliminating Cray's most prominent leaders from the chessboard... Did anything in the past two months even matter? The thought that everything was for naught made the queen feel nauseous. Of course a War Council was prepared, the planet was still going to have to face the threat of whatever was coming eventually... Even still, she looked like she would cry.

Angel Feather... and only four people remembered anything... Metatron breaking the rules didn't seem like a pressing matter, but Limit Break was-

Yugure stopped and just sort of stared at Haruka and his reaction. This doof forgets where he is, thinks this is a dream, then rolls off the bed, hits the ground, and just calmly understands this is real. That was an impressive feat in itself. "Hey... We... need to talk", she greeted the awaking dork. Hopefully he can see Seph, but more importantly, she needed to talk to him about Kagero. Motioning him over with a finger, he was invited to the chat.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 19, 2015, 09:27:08 PM: Haruka rubbed his eyes with the remaining hand that wasn't already supporting his body. "Hm? We need to talk?"

Those words usually spell out bad news, no matter the situation. Haruka rubs his now splitting headache and climbs off of the bed. Sitting down cross-legged, Haruka looks around the room. "What is it? Er, did something happen?" Haruka attempted to play everything off coolly. When he turns his head back to Satoshi, he picks up on something.

"...?"

What was that?

He turns back to Yukino, waiting for her to explain "what they need to talk about." He sweats nervously, dismissing the presence just a moment ago.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 19, 2015, 09:36:27 PM: "About the disappearances of clans, including Kagero", finally speaking with Haruka about it would remove some of her lingering isolation. She wouldn't be the only one who remembers, someone would understand... That, and the details surrounding Overlord's aftermath were sort of sketchy. The Empire's number one set fire to his own lifeforce to charge in the civil war in the Sanctuary to help give it an ending. However, as far as the Sanctuary was informed, none of them understood what happened. The nightmare was the last time Yukino even saw the dragon.

"How much do you remember?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 19, 2015, 09:44:16 PM: Haruka's mood takes a nosedive.

His face warps from sheepish and sleepy to dark and depressed. He turns away for a moment, staring at the wall, somewhat sulking. "I was actually wondering if you knew. Overlord was suddenly gone... I woke up to a deck, with a clan called Gold Paladins." Haruka takes a deep breath, trying to explain what he knows without being too much of a baby about it.

"All I know are the last things Dragonic Overlord told me." He turned back to Yukino.

"This isn't the End." Haruka grinned a little, remembering how much Overlord was kind of nerd. "But I think it meant something. I'm not sure what... But I believe him. That it really wasn't the end." Haruka's grin waned, but he tried to keep up a decent front.

"I remember the fight, I remember Exculpate the Blaster, I even remember the way the fight ended. That night itself was a bit fuzzy..." Haruka trails off with a yawn.

"And that was it."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 19, 2015, 09:56:33 PM: "So you remember everything as I do..." It was obvious bringing this up hurt him, but it made her happy to know she truly wasn't the only one who missed their friends. She missed Ahmes and Yunos, he clearly yearned to meet with Overlord again. Giving a wry smile, trying to let him know that he isn't alone... the queen did find a detail odd. The Air Force Division of Narukami had the incarnation of lightning: Dragonic Kaiser Vermillion. If whoever changed their decks wanted to keep something close to what they had before, wouldn't it make sense for Haruka to have that?

Though, maybe it was better this way, she thought. Less painful for him and Vermillion if they ever came together.

"This isn't the end..." Yugure repeated. Of course it wasn't, the civil war's end wasn't the last of Cray's troubles. However, it possibly had deeper meaning than that. Meant solely for Haruka in fact.

"So judging by Seph's words, you - the Seraphim - got connected to Kagero more than anyone else."

Actually, now was a good time to ask Haruka about that.

"Why are you the 'Seraphim' anyway?" The queen inquired, also considering to finally ask about those burns of his too.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 19, 2015, 10:02:41 PM: Seraphim.

The name rung in his ears for several seconds. He heard a resonating "cling" over and over.

"Se-ra-phim." Haruka gulped at it. He had no idea what it meant. Nothing about the name was important to him by prior events. However the name was all too familiar.

A seraph was an angel, sent from heaven. Seraphim was something very similar, however it had a different connotation. A darker angel. He felt his heart pound a little.

"I don't know what that means. Or what I am. What does that mean to you?" Haruka was answering questions with questions. He felt bad at first, considering he was now filled with more questions than before.

"I'm not sure. Maybe I have a connection to Kagero? A real connection, not just through the cards. But... I feel like you know just as much as I do." Haruka cradled his legs in his arms, staring back at Yukino, using his knees as a rest.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 19, 2015, 10:10:14 PM: Haruka's reaction wasn't pleasant to watch, believing in a tinge of fear covered by a blanket of confusion. That was only her guess by how he gulped, repeating it. Perhaps it was best to pursue another topic about him then, seeing as this wasn't a good one.

"What about those burns?"

They were probably unrelated, honestly. Yugure would make an attempt to rationalize that they have something to do with his title and connection to Kagero. However, it was more mere curiosity of his person.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 19, 2015, 10:32:00 PM: Instinctively Haruka grabbed at this neck to cover up the lightly showing marks. Probably his number one insecurity.

"They're from.. Well." He wasn't sure how to go about all of this. Was it appropriate? Probably not. But the story would be too hard to believe otherwise.

Let's do this.

Haruka untied his tie, and unbuttoned his shirt, revealing his chest and the burns that sprawled from the top of his abdomen, all across his chest and towards the edges of his collarbones.

"When I was younger, I lost my parents, yeah?" He was mostly saying as a reminder. "I lost them in a freak fire.... Earlier that day, my father came home. I never got to see him, because my mother came up screaming, telling me to stay in my room. He was... wailing in pain. I don't really remember a lot of it, not that I want to. After a while, everything was quiet."

Haruka gulped hard, touching his chest where the burns are. "The house was on fire. I didn't even know for a bit... I went to touch my door knob and it burned my hand. I had to bash it down, the door I mean. The first thing that greeted me was..."

Smoke. Heat, smoke and flames. Everything was suddenly becoming surreal for him He remembered it all a bit too well, despite saying he doesn't. He could remember the hues of the fire and the intensity of the heat. Everything was coming back to him all at once.

"Smoke."

Guh. This sucks.

"I thought they escaped through a window, so I went out too. But... they weren't there." He breathed hard.

"The cops picked me up and helped me out of the building. I was safe I thought, so they told me to sit down for a minute, relax. I sat in the grass, vacantly. I was horrified. And then, the most unexpected part."

He revealed the remaining burns and scars. Haruka would be blushing at the insane amount of top-side showing, but he was too busy telling a story. He was pretty air-headed sometimes.

"The house, well... exploded." That was the best way to put it. It was a moving burst of energy and fire at a rapid pace. "The fire spread across the grass and reached me, only for a moment... but they got me bad." A moment was an exaggeration. Four seconds of fire burning across Haruka's body. They centered on his tattered shirt, getting most of his upper body.

With one more long powerful breath, he puts his hands in his lap and nods. "That was that. They were gone, and my Uncle and Aunt took me in. Now I'm here, after they offered to let me live alone here in the inner city. Kind of them, eh?"

This was Haruka's coping. He tried hard to stop thinking about it, but he was already about to break down again. He simply gripped his slacks in his lap and bit his lip.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 19, 2015, 11:02:21 PM: This had nothing to do with Kagero or Cray, not even Seraphim. So that only made Yugure feel awful to see him relive everything with his mind's eye. Listening to his story, her eyes closed, illustrating everything she could mentally. The tragedy played out in her mind... a boy sitting in his room, lost in confusion and isolation. Mother telling him to stay, and a man's agonizing wails from the outside. Then, the boy cries when he touches a scorching doorknob. Breaking it down, the sight of flames was burned into her mind. An endless storm of heat razing the household, and leading a poor kid to escape from a window alone.

Parents gone... Subsequently, Yugure cringed when the image of the explosion occurred.

Making sure he wasn't left unscathed physically, leaving emotional scars too as a constant reminder.

The feelings Haruka carried through his life must've been unimaginable. Never mind her own despair, she couldn't even sympathize. Saying "I'm sorry" wouldn't help anything, so those words didn't come out of her mouth.

After a few moments... Yukino moved over toward Haruka, crawling to him. Instinctively, the girl hugged him, squeezing her friend in a gentle embrace. Words probably couldn't soothe the pain, but, still yearning to help him cope somehow, silently holding him was her choice of action.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 19, 2015, 11:09:55 PM: Seph sighed. His purpose was to relay information and not necessarily take in anything from these two, but he couldn't help but feel a bit sorry for the Seraphim. A boy, surrounded by flames, touched and abused by their dance. A boy who should be dead, and yet rose up from the flames anew. Standing once again...that must be why Dragonic Overlord picked Haruka as his champion.

He smiled a bit. Satoshi was in good hands with these two, even if he wasn't to know anything...at least, for now. Seeing the two embrace, Seph thought about what they would look like together. After all, while their nations clashed, there was some Earth saying he remembered hearing Satoshi's father say long ago, when the boy was young. Something about how "opposites attract"? He had posed this question to Lox of Great Nature, who had explained magnetic fields in response. Perhaps these two had a magnetic field that bound them tighter than their bonds with his own champion.

He chuckled a bit, then whistled. "Hey, not to ruin the moment or anything, but...I'm still right here."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 19, 2015, 11:16:21 PM: "H- uh.." Haruka felt Yukino's arms wrap around him. He wasn't exactly sure how to respond. The nerves on his chest were numb due to the burns, be he felt warmth surround him everywhere else. He dug his forehead into her shoulder and reciprocated the embrace. He wanted to cry a little.

"Y-Yukino.... Thank you." This was probably the only thing he'd be able to say right now, considering the backlash that telling the story he just told was making it difficult to breathe even. His breathing slowed and calmed. Yukino's consolation made it a great deal easier to keep it together at the moment.

The warmth spread across his shoulders and back, as well as up his neck and face. Oh, he was blushing.

"Mmm... This probably wasn't very pleasant to hear?" Haruka felt sort of bad, as if he were tugging at Yukino's heartstrings. Talking about himself or his past was usually not the most entertaining activity, but she had asked and he felt like she should know.

Then the whistle. "E-Eh..."

He turned his head, the blush became a full red across his face and neck. He didn't know what it was, but due to the fact it sort of took Haruka by surprise, he ended up hugging Yukino a bit tighter.

Sorry! I, uh, I hope she's okay.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 20, 2015, 12:07:25 AM: Honestly, Yukino wasn't sure how to continue from this either. She remembered back during her Shadow Paladin rampage when the clan stabbed her with glares... Those that expected the best, nothing but furthering the insatiable hunger for power. Yet, they weren't satisfied, and blamed it on her. Yunos didn't, however. Yunos embraced her too... yanking all the swords out one at a time. The girl's hands rubbed Haruka's burns, unconsciously trying to spark warmth from her own gestures like Yunos did.

"It... was really sad", she responded. Of course it wasn't pleasant to hear, but she didn't expect anything that brought burns like those to not be. Holding him tighter, doing everything in her power to make sure he felt even a little better... that was the only thing in mind until Seph spoke.

Right, they were talking about Cray.

Yugure blushed some, letting go of Haruka, but staying next to him. "S-Sorry...", an apology was given to the both of them. Invasion of personal space and completely forgetting the spirit was even here... Awkward barely described her current feelings. Yet, she was happy she went to Haruka anyway.

"A-Anyway... Haruka, clans have been locked away by some monster that appeared on Cray... It seems prominent figures were targeted first, as I saw Overlord float away... and then Ahmes and Yunos too", Yukino got back on topic, explaining her dream.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 20, 2015, 12:19:26 AM: Haruka felt the warmth run through him for a moment longer until Yukino suddenly let go. He was relieved, as he wasn't sure how to progress, yet also suddenly a little empty.... He missed the feeling immediately.

"Right... So what monster? And what happened to Overlord? He... Floated away?" This struck Haruka as odd considering Overlord was capable of flying. He must have had some sort of binding upon him.

The dream wasn't at all familiar to anything Haruka knew, but he felt as though it made sense. Ahmes, Yunos, and Overlord were taken away, and maybe others too. He nodded his head, taking in the information presented. Whole clans disappeared. This, he was sure of.

"So, how do you propose we go about getting them back?" Haruka wanted to get back on topic as quickly as possible before embarrassment struck him again. He was genuinely interested in the safety of Cray, but at the same time he felt the echoes of the feeling of Yukino's hands on his back and shoulders.

It was pleasant, but it was awkward to think about when a serious topic was brought up; this was his way of pushing the earlier attachment away for a moment and to keep focus.

"Any plans?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 20, 2015, 12:55:06 AM: Yugure visibly trembled, the fear that this beast instilled into heart was something that just wouldn't creep away. It feels as if she's bothered every minute of the day now. "I... I don't know what it was... it was some mechanical... thing... Orbs hit and people flew away in bubbles..." explaining it only replayed the horrific scene over and over again. The hissing roar that it let loose, taking away the knights that finally reconciled their relationships. It almost took her... it almost got her and sealed her away... this thought made her shake even more...

"I don't have any ideas... Father told me the War of Liberation began, but I don't know what that is... Gold Paladin is scrambling to get control of the Sanctuary after its mass panic still, according to Garmore..."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 20, 2015, 01:03:18 AM: "Hey, hey! Here, calm down." Haruka kneeled in front of her, placing his hands on her shoulders to help her stop shaking. He wanted to help her as she helped him, but this was different. It wasn't a faint memory of a scorched past. Its a fresh problem, a wound that had yet to heal. It was happening now, as they spoke.

He took her hands in his. "Look, its okay. War of Liberation, right? Freedom. Its a war to free the clans, obviously. And if the Gold Paladin are in charge, its probably their job to put everything right. Trust in them." Haruka himself didn't trust Vortimer all too much, but what did he have to lose? If he wanted to save Overlord, Ahmes, Yunos, and everyone else, he needed to believe in his own units as well.

"Garmore. So that's the name of your new unit I assume? After the Royal and Shadow Paladins were..."

He didn't finish that last sentence.

"So that's who Vortimer was talking to... I guess he can hear your guys too." Haruka pondered the idea for a couple of moments, forgetting he was holding Yukino's hands.

"Do you know if the Gold Paladins are split into factions or anything like that?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 20, 2015, 01:33:08 AM: Having Haruka comfort her immediately helped in calming her breathing. The sheer terror of the fact that she could have been one of those people sealed away was enough trauma to last a lifetime. Ahmes and Yunos threw themselves into harm's way, taking the fate she should've had instead... It was a mixed feeling of how Ahmes and Yunos must feel, and how she would've felt if they hadn't. Nowadays, fear was just... just so prevalent in her mind. What happened to the proud queen who stared fear in its eye?

At least, after he made sense of her words, she relaxed some. Of course she trusted Ezel and Garmore. It was a bit unfair to Gold Paladin to focus her attention entirely on saving Ahmes and Yunos, considering these people are her allies too. These warriors born from trust united in the Sanctuary thanks to her. While they didn't blame her, the lion and wolf were glad to see her think like this. Even if they had a mission to save those they've lost, they want nothing more than Yugure to be at ease with this clan.

"Garmore and Ezel..." adding the other knight's name to Haruka's inquiry about the heroes. Hearing his question of other factions, she asked Ezel.

"Ezel says... there's the Red Lion corps, the Black Chain forces who are also the Black Steed, the White Hare faction... and the Blue Falcon aerial squads."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 20, 2015, 01:40:15 AM: Seph closed his eyes. Yeah, he really should've said something a while ago.

"Okay, look. The War of Liberation is a directive Ezel made when he came into power as the representative for Gold Paladin on the Council. As a clan, they're seeking the Beast Armors to acquire enough power to save Cray. The Beast Armors have unnatural levels powers that spike the potential of those who wear them beyond their normal limits. Ezel has the Red Lion's armor, Garmore has the Silver Wolf's, and Vortimer has the Black Dragon's. When they assemble the Beast Armors together, the goal is to be powerful enough to break the seal."

He waved an image of a dark, ebbing bubble. "This is the Rift, the place that we currently fight against. A great power was freed alongside the long-gone Aqua Force, and the Rift is its domain, utilizing its power to seal Alfred, the Blasters, Pacifica and Dragonic Overlord. Our goal is to, hopefully, defeat this power. With Ezel at the helm, this should be quite possible, and we will be able to avert a crisis on Cray." He nodded curtly to Yukino. "Yugure, you were chosen by Ezel to be his champion. Once again, you are the human being who must lead the other champions to fight against the forces of the Rift. But you will need as much help as you can get this time."

Seph smiled a little. "To support the Gold Paladin's path to success, all of the clans have stepped forward with their own champions, those who have also surpassed their limits. And with those champions..." He bent the energy of the dark bubble into a more pleasant, soothing, green energy. "I stand as the protector of Neo Nectar. Many know me by my human form, Seph. But extending beyond my limits...I am Arboros Dragon, Sephirot." He ceased the bubble of energy. "With time, I will assist you all by means of Satoshi. But I must know that he can handle my full potential, first. Such extensive power of Limit Break is staggering, you know."

He nodded, then dipped his head in thought. "Be careful, however. While this quest does seem to end in our victory...Amaterasu says a darkness will linger. There are more shadows behind the figure we know that sealed away the Chosen Ones; we just can't feel their power at this point in time. As for what to do in the meantime..." He scratched his chin, then nodded. "Search for the bearers of Metatron and Vermilion. I most recently felt their presences by you all. And...I know this may be hard, but keep all of this a secret from Satoshi. I will tell him everything when it is best to, I promise."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 20, 2015, 01:52:54 AM: "Ezel... Hmm." He lets the name sit for a moment before picking out a couple of things Yukino said.

"Black Chain and Black Steed. Sounds like Vortimer and Kahedin's squads. Makes sense considering their armor. They remind me of Shadow Paladins in a way, to be honest." Haruka remarks at the way his units act and have skills similar to that of Shadow Paladins themselves.

"Okay, that's good at least. We have information, and some idea. We just need a plan, and people to back it up. Of course, who knows about this? It seems everyone around us just kind of, always used these clans... Its weird, right?" Haruka puts on a small smile, in an attempt to lighten the atmosphere. He sits down in front of her, sort of on his knees, sitting on his legs and feet.

"What about Hana? Does she know? Satoshi? Maybe even Neo-"

Stop. She doesn't need to be assaulted with questions now.

Haruka stops mid-sentence. He looks at the fearful Yukino.

She's brave.. Standing up to all this. I can see why if Ezel is some commander, he chose her to lead.

Haruka puts a hand on Yukino's cheek, caressing her lightly and simply says, "You're one brave fighter, ya know that."

Soft.

With that said, he heard the voice. And saw it too. It spoke of the history and lore of the entire war and its purpose. It also spoke of what was believed to be Limit Break.

"Pushing past our limits..." Haruka remembered Spectral Duke Dragon, a vanguard that allowed him to restand after an attack, but there was a requirement. Limit Break.

"So you're saying there are champions, one of Vermillion, of Ezel, and of Metatron? And they're the main forces of the coalition?" Haruka wanted to make sure he has the facts straight this time around.

"Where are they? Do you know? Or..." Haruka glanced over to Satoshi. Maybe he knows.

Hmmm.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 20, 2015, 02:53:12 AM: After receiving the Armor Break Dragon Card at Psy Shop, Neo decided to walk around yet again. He then comes across this mansion. "Wow.." Neo said looking around at the property.

"I honestly dont think I would be allowed in here" Neo said to himself

So he decided to walk up to the front gate and buzz the doorbell. "Never hurts to try" Neo said
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 20, 2015, 03:10:43 AM: "Um..."

Hana saw Neo ringing the bell from the gate outside the mansion and was a bit surprised. She had just come from the forest, still holding Mi-hime's hand.

"Hello DogeKaiser!" She greeted him.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 20, 2015, 03:13:18 AM: Oh.

"Hello Hana and Miyuki" Neo replied. I was just ringing the doorbell to this mansion but no one has come out yet.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 20, 2015, 03:20:34 AM: Hana wonders why he is here tonight, is he a stalker?.... Perhaps it is something else. Nonetheless it doesn't hurt to have visitors, and anything that he tries to do, he would have to go through Dad-san first anyways, so no problem. Hana walked forward and let go of Mi-hime's hand, "sorry Mi-hime, just have to open the door and stuff." She then walked towards the gate.

"Well I have the key right here." Hana told him. She opened a small hatch along the side of the gate to reveal a scanner of some sorts.

" OPTICAL SCANNER ON, " a robotic voice sounded from the device. Hana move her hair out of her face and scanned her right eye.

" ACCESS GRANTED, WELCOME HOME HANA ESPOIR. "

With that, the gate slowly swung open, and lights guided their long path to the mansion. "UGH I HATE THESE STAIRS." Hana groaned.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 20, 2015, 03:23:10 AM: "The Black Chain forces are members of Shadow Paladin actually", Yukino added about Haruka's point of interest. The queen took a few moments of silence to absorb the vast quantity of exposition Seph relayed to them, along with learning of who Vortimer and Kahedin were with Ezel telling the squads. Gold Paladin was the single most enormous clan on Cray as it stood, being a massive fusion of two different clans having come to agreements. However, the lion stopped and told her to relax. War plans weren't for Yugure to come up with at the moment. Finding Metatron and Vermillion's "champions" were also other matters entirely. As was Satoshi being worthy of wielding Sephirot - Neo Nectar's personal, no, Zoo's personal Guardian Dragon.

... And then the Rift... the wormhole that nearly took her away even before the cyber dragon too...

Still feeling down and scared, she looked up at Haruka as he spoke, asking about others. He stopped for some reason... then placed a hand on her cheek. A special kind of warmth washed over her, one that she dearly wished someone gave her during her Shadow Paladin rampage. Someone to just hold her - caress her, to tell her everything's alright. While this touch wasn't all of that and more, it was something. Yukino placed her hand on his, squeezing it, trying to keep it in place. Almost crying, she sat there in silence with it after Haruka's compliment.

Meanwhile, Dad Espoir's father senses were tingling. Another boy in his house, goddammit. As long as he isn't getting too close to Hana, he supposed he could let it slide. As for Haruka...

...

Dad sighs.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 20, 2015, 03:24:30 AM: "Well stairs arent that bad" Neo said to Hana.

Neo then followed Hana inside and looked around while walking up the stairs.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 20, 2015, 03:25:49 AM: Miyuki was suprised to see Neo here of all places. It was a bit of a shock to be sure. And at this time as well. Hana walked ahead to go unlock the gate, so she moved over to Neo. Might as well check up on him.

The doors were unlocked faster than she thought however, so she didn't manage to get in a word. Looking at the familiar long stair case, she decided now would be the time to check what exactly Neo was doing here.

'Hii Neo was it? Eater of Dog food. Sorry by the way, I didn't bring any with me. So umm, what brings you to the Espoir mansion at this time?' She deeply regretted not having spare dog food right now, the poor dog -- um boy was looking rather hungry.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 20, 2015, 03:29:54 AM: Neo replied "Well Im having a long, crazy, cant explain kind of day. From almost dying, being saved by the enemy and hearing voices and cards magically coming to me, I decided to keep walking around. Since you know I really dont have a home. Im a wanderer. And as for the dog food it was only a one night thing, Im not hungry this time around" Neo chuckled.

"I had more questions for Hana concerning some things I wanted to ask" Neo said.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 20, 2015, 03:34:39 AM: Seph sighed. Satoshi was definitely screwed out of it this time. But honestly, that was okay. These two were cute and he'd get over it.

He heard footsteps downstairs and hopped up. "Well, I'd love to say more, but it looks like you have guests. We'll chat again soon, Yugure. Maybe eventually on the same battlefield, yeah?" He winked, then faded as Satoshi stirred.

"Wha's all th' noise 'bout..." he muttered, rubbing his eyes and stretching out on the floor he had slept on. The boy hadn't fully opened his eyes and seen the embrace Yukino and Haruka were sharing.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 20, 2015, 03:36:13 AM: She walked up the stairs, still a long way towards the mansion itself. The lights shone brightly, lighting every step of the way. Around them would be the greenery, usually visible in the morning. The front yards had many fountains. In the dark, they merely create the soothing sound of flowing water. "More questions," Hana heard him utter this.

Still continuing to walk, "What questions do you have?" Hana asked.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 20, 2015, 03:38:49 AM: Without missing a beat he smiled back. Haruka was bad with words. Everyone and then some knew that. So instead he would express himself through his actions.

However with what sounds like the recent arrival of people, the action he had in mind might have to wait for another day. He simply sat there with Yukino for a moment before deciding it would be a better idea to go ahead and enjoy the remainder of the night. While Haruka wouldn't mind staying like this for awhile, he couldn't stay there all night.

Again.
Haruka stands up, buttoning his shirt. He offers a hand to Yukino. "So, shall we greet the guests? Or rather. Your guests?" Something sparked in Haruka's head for a moment.

"Also, shouldn't we wake up Satoshi? He's slept through all of this after all..."

Spoke too soon.

"Evening, sleepyhead. We're about to head out, yeah? We slept through the day, so we should probably get back to the house soon."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 20, 2015, 03:43:11 AM: "I was able to get more infomation on what we talked about earlier with clans vanishing, but I wasnt sure who i should ask so I decided to ask you, Is a place called PSY Shop related to all of this" Neo asked.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 20, 2015, 03:43:58 AM: Satoshi rubbed his eyes and put on his glasses. "Yeah, you're probably right." He gave a sleepy wave to Yukino. "Hey, you and everyone else can keep the leftovers. Just be sure to eat 'em by the end of this week or they'll go bad, 'kay?" He whipped out a stick of deodorant he had brought with him, swiped under his arms and turned his attention back to Haruka.

"Whenever you're good, we'll head back---"

Suddenly, he held his head. Something didn't feel right. His whole body started to ache as though it was going through some intense turmoil.

Then it just...stopped. He removed his hands from his head.

<W...what happened?> he thought. He was sweating suddenly. Seph replied from inside him. -I'm not sure, actually. I did take a bit of time outside for a while, but this is new to me, too.-

He shook his head and put on his best smile to his two best friends, trying to cover up whatever had just happened.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 20, 2015, 03:51:51 AM: Yukino let out a little surprised cry when his hand left, wanting to pull it back in place... Though, it took a good few seconds to hear the sounds of arriving guests. This manor of there's was getting really popular all of a sudden and the queen wasn't sure how she felt about it. Months ago, she'd have barely considered it happening. But now, she wouldn't mind a little party with genuine friends one day soon. Taking his hand, she rose to her feet. While there were still a mountain of questions in store for Sephirot to answer, there just wasn't enough time. Satoshi was waking up and people were on the way.

"Hi, Satoshi. Your food knocked us out a good one. Not Hana and the others, apparently. We should go meet up with them. Oh, and don't worry about the food going bad, I'm eating the rest tonight."

Did she even know how much food was actually left?!

Giving a smile to Satoshi, but not noticing his sudden aching, she turned to Haruka. He got more of a blushing smile that exclaimed "thank you" silently.

Haruka +5 Affinity
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 20, 2015, 04:00:10 AM: Haruka found himself still holding Yukino's hand, despite him about to leave, he didn't want to let go. So instead, as appreciation for earlier, Haruka plants a kiss on Yukino's cheek, as quickly as possible. The less witnesses the better.

Let's hope this doesn't backfire. Let's hope.

Yukino AP +5

Satoshi/Seph AP +3 (Good meal!)

"Yeah, lemme just grab my bag. Its over there actually. Mind throwing it over?" Haruka was trying to look non-suspicious, but he was pretty bad at fooling people. However despite the quick commotion Satoshi had, Haruka mostly dismissed as maybe light-headedness.

"Also Satoshi, anything you wanna grab on the way back? I'm craving ice cream." As per usual. "Maybe soda too?" Also as per usual.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 20, 2015, 04:01:03 AM: "PSY Shop?..." She said in surprise.

Did one of those nerds actually invite him?....

Nonetheless, Hana wished to relax the rest of the night, and thought that he should relax too. It's been a long day, and really, there is no need to keeping on thinking about all this. Such a loaded question... She intends to answer this someday and some time soon as well, but as it is right now, it can wait.

Hana continued walking, they just about reached the entrance to the mansion itself. "About all that, we have more time later on to chat about it... it's best to just take this time right now to relax, it's been a long day."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 20, 2015, 04:07:44 AM: "Yeah, your right" Neo replied. Do you mind if I stay here for just the night?" Neo asked Hana as we reached the entrance.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 20, 2015, 04:18:47 AM: "Um... Sure, I'll ask one of the workers to get something ready for you." Hana answered surprised.

Hana swung the front door open, finally glad to be home. She yelled, "MINNA I AM HOME!!!!" as soon as she entered and quickly gave her purse to a worker. She also probably made everyone in the house jump in surprise. She then continued to speak, asking one of the workers and possibly setting off dad-san's father senses.

"I brought a guy home, and he asked if he could sleep with me here tonight!" She exclaimed without thinking about the wording, her naivety, childishness and lack of thought, striking once again at the worst times.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 20, 2015, 04:20:35 AM: Yukino didn't initially know Haruka was still holding her hand, so it took her subconsciously squeezing it to realize. Before getting to react, he kissed her cheek! "Red" wouldn't do justice to how much she was blushing, covering her mouth with the free hand to keep from blurting something out. Instead, the queen screamed internally, bouncing a little in place. Oh god, oh god, mind racing for a minute, she took her hand away from Haruka's. Firmly planting it atop the other hand to further contain her squealing. Not spending a second to see how Satoshi reacted, she dashed out of the room.

Dad Espoir punched himself a new window.

The window was not his intention.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 20, 2015, 04:28:45 AM: Neo walked in and noticed her energy. "I guess shes really happy to be home" Neo said to himself.

"Thank you for letting me stay here" Neo said to Hana. I really appreciate it.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 20, 2015, 04:33:27 AM: Satoshi rubbed the back of his head. That was definitely flirting and kissing those two did. Weirdly enough, at one time, it might've bothered him, but this time? Nah, he could see it.

Rejection hadn't necessarily jaded him; it mostly made him reconnect with his own emotions and realize why he felt what he felt. These two were his best friends, so why wouldn't he want them to be together if they really liked each other? He slyly smiled and winked at Haruka.

"I have some extra ice cream back at your place. Maybe we can share it and have a chat about women, huh?"

Seph chuckled a bit, watching from afar.

Yukino +1 AP
Haruka +1 AP
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 20, 2015, 04:35:51 AM: If wasn't until Yukino made a sudden escape from the room, Haruka noticed how red she was.

"Hoh..." Haruka grinned a little, putting his now free hands in his pockets after obtaining his backpack and getting ready to leave.

So cute.

"Huh, oh, yeah sure." Haruka blushed brightly too, scratching his head out of habit.

"Saaa-tooo-shiiii. Let's go!" Haruka was ready to head out. Once making it to the front door, he noticed familiar faces.

"Hana, Miyuki, Neo. Evening!" He smiled, and made his way out of the house and to grab ice cream for the trip home

"Today was... Nicer than I expected." Haruka said to himself.

I can hardly wait to be back.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 20, 2015, 04:41:22 AM: Yukino ran across the entrance and headed straight for the dining room to drown her excitement in leftovers.

Dad Espoir, holding in his fury, came down to greet everyone. The gigantic, over-seven-foot lion of a man sized up Neo. He wasn't nearly as violent as he was with the first two boys in his house, as this one hadn't made a move... yet. His stern glare made it very clear instantly that if he dared to make a mistake involving Hana, he'd crush him like a twig. A gaze lingered over Haruka, ready to pounce on him. Luckily, it was coated by an accepting sigh.

If he made a mistake, "wrecked" wouldn't describe what comes down on the scarved guest.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 20, 2015, 04:44:58 AM: "Hello Sir" Neo said to Dad Espoir

"Im only here because I needed a place to stay for the night. I promise to not be a bother" Neo then said"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 20, 2015, 04:55:56 AM: Huh.

Okay either he knows his place or is completely oblivious. "As long as it stays that, you're welcome in my home", Dad Espoir spoke to Neo. You know, he might like this one. Unlike the others, he wasn't trying to get at one of his daughters. ... Some of the servants were quietly warned to keep an eye on him anyway.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 20, 2015, 04:57:53 AM: "Is it ok if im shown to where im sleeping?" Neo asked nicely

Its been a long day.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 20, 2015, 04:58:48 AM: Hana was glad that Dad-san easily accepted him. She invited Neo up to her room. It was a fine time to relax, possibly get a few practice rounds of fighting in. "Have you ever had a dream that you've wanted so much that you practiced until you passed out to reach it?" She asked him, giggling a little at the memories of when she did.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 20, 2015, 05:03:38 AM: "I did was i was a kid to be honest" Neo replied.

"I am one that always keeps fighting" Neo said to Hana falling asleep.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 20, 2015, 01:19:03 PM: It had been a long night. Neo was nicely invited to the Espoir Mansion to spend the night. Despite being stood up by the "Dad" of the mansion I think, Neo just wanted a place to stay for the night. He was very thankful to Hana and her friends and family for letting him stay, so he planned to say a big thank you when everyone woke up.

As for Neo, he had woken up and didnt sleep as much as he would have liked. He looked around the room and saw Hana sleeping. He knew that she had a rough past 2 days staying up late. So Neo decided to look through his deck to try to add in the Armor Break Dragon he got from PSY Shop yesterday.

"PSY Shop.... This Armor Break Dragon.... That girl..." Neo started thinking to himself. More questions and even less answers.. Neo decided to just wait intil everyone woke up, but he didnt want to throw the questions in there faces, so he decided he wouldnt ask them.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 20, 2015, 02:14:54 PM: Hana woke up, scratching her eyes. She had a dream about walking through the forest with Miyuki, or at least a continuation of it where it they could've spend more time together.

Affinity:
Mi-hime: +3

Now that's she's woken up, a worker came into her room to ask her what she wanted for breakfast. She wondered if Neo was still here from yesterday, to see if he was still over, and wanted some breakfast.

"Is he still here?" She asked one of the butlers.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 20, 2015, 02:41:49 PM: Miyuki got up slowly, stretching. 'Man I've been waking up late these past few days, normally I'd be up earlier'. Shrugging she looked around, realising that she was in one of the guest rooms of the Espoir Mansion. Yesterday flashed back to her, the walk in the forest with Hana, when she'd let out all her worries in one breath. They were still there, but she did feel better about it.
(Hana AP +3)

She glanced at her deck, and pulled out Farah. 'Are you actually anything special' she wondered. As usual she felt weird when she looked directly at the card. That aside, she wondered where the others were. She decided to look around the mansion, to see if anyone was still here.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 20, 2015, 02:45:47 PM: Neo was walking around the mansion and saw the worker.

"Yes im still here" Neo replied. Was just washing up.

"Uhh, ill have some eggs with toast and a coffee please" Neo said to the worker.

"Good Morning Hana" Neo also said to Hana.

Neo put a smile on his face because he felt welcomed by other people, a feeling that he never felt before.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 20, 2015, 02:50:15 PM: Hana heard eggs.

"Eggs!" she exclaimed. This was her chance to shine. She had asked the worker to handle the coffee. She quickly ran into her closet and pulled out an apron.

"I will cook these eggs." She then rushed downstairs to the kitchen to cook some eggs.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 20, 2015, 02:59:31 PM: Neo saw Hana get all excited as she ran down to make breakfast. I waited for the worker to make the coffee as well. In the meantime, Neo spread his deck out across the table still trying to figure out how to fit the Armor Break Dragon in his deck. But he just couldnt figure out a way to do it

"So many card choices, yet so little space" Neo said.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 20, 2015, 03:11:50 PM: Hana had finished cooking her eggs. She ordered one of the workers to come and prepare them on a plate. She then walked back to the dining area where Neo sat, looking at his cards in an attempt to make changes to his deck. "Do you need any help?" she asked. Of course, her help wouldn't be really so much as deck building, more like, if he wanted to have a fight to test things out, she would act as his opponent if he wanted to.

"I can help you test some things out if you want." she offered him.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 20, 2015, 03:14:56 PM: "Sure I would love some help" Neo replied.

"But after breakfast im going to take a walk to clear my mind" Neo said as he waited for breakfast to be served
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 20, 2015, 03:33:29 PM: "Alright, I understand."

Hana sat down on the dining table, and ordered the workers to bring in the food. It seems that Yukinee went out early today. Today's breakfast was eggs, rice, eggs, coffee, eggs, pancakes, eggs, mashed potatoes, and eggs. The tables were quickly set and she took the utensils and prepared to eat.

"Thanks for the food."

Breakfast had began.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 20, 2015, 03:56:33 PM: "Thanks for the food" Neo said

Neo started eating and then started thinking so much he started to space out.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 20, 2015, 04:06:46 PM: Hana finished with breakfast. DogeKaiser wanted to go take a walk after to clear his mind and he seems to have spaced out while eating. She assumed that he needed time on his own to think, so she took the plates from the table to help the workers clean up.

"I'll leave you alone to your thoughts for now, the font yard is a great place for a relaxing walk, or you can just take a walk around town. I'll just be cleaning up around the house if you need anything." Hana disappeared into the kitchen, followed by multiple clashing plates and the sound running water hitting the glass.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 20, 2015, 04:10:52 PM: "Neo left a thank you note for Hana for letting him stay the night.

Neo then left the mansion and took off for a walk to clear his many thoughts..
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 20, 2015, 06:23:45 PM: After hours of walking around the mansion in circles, she finally gave in. 'Did everyone just leave or am I just missing them?' She really couldn't be sure of either, the mansion was bigger than she remembered, and there were too many rooms. She knew that Hana wasn't in her room, but that was the only room in the mansion she knew the place of.

Then she spotted a butler casually walking by. 'Why didn't I just ask one of them beforehand?' That was a good question.

'Um, hello mister? Do you know if anyone else is in? If so could you guide me to them? That or the exit, either would be fine at this point.' Sighing, Miyuki resolved herself to never wander around mansions when she'd just woken up. The butler seemed to know where he was going, so she just followed him, wondering where she'd end up.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 20, 2015, 06:30:49 PM: Hana had just finished washing the dishes.

"Right, Mi-hime should be awake by now."

She stepped out into the dining area, hearing footsteps in the hallway. That may be here. Hana peeked her head out, spotting her following one of the butlers... for some reason. "Mi-hime!" she waved over as she called her name. She seems like she's been wandering around the mansion for awhile now. "Kawaiiiii~" Hana thought to herself.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 20, 2015, 06:45:37 PM: As she was following the butler, she heard Hana calling her name. Turning around to try and find her, she greeted Hana.

'Hii Hana. Oh yeah, i was just wondering, is anyone else still here? Neo or Yukino or someone else?' She thought she should at least say hi to Yukino if she was still here, plus possibly check up on Neo. Obviously if they had already left though, nothing could be done.

'Your house is too big Hana, you need to provide like a map to guests' she complained.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 20, 2015, 07:11:04 PM: Hana hugged Mi-hime. "How was your sleep? Hope you slept well!" She continued.

"I cooked eggs! wants some?" she kept on asking her questions.

Surely Mi-hime must be hungry, Hana thought. So she ordered one of the workers to set the table once more for her.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 20, 2015, 07:43:58 PM: 'Sure, I'd be glad to eat something.'

Her question seemed to have gotten ignored, but it really didn't matter. Realising that she in the dining room, she sat down at the table that the workers prepared and started to eat. It was already quite late, but this was fine, she'd been waking up and eating at weird times the last few days already, another meal couldn't hurt.

Looking at Hana again, who was sitting next to her, a question floated into her mind. 'Sooo, do you remember what we talked about yesterday?' She said, in between bites of food. 'Is everything ok?'
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 20, 2015, 08:01:05 PM: Hana sat down, as the workers continued to clean up the kitchen. She looked at Mi-hime, slowly eating, until she was approached with a question. She nodded, "I remember. Yeah, everything is alright. We'll just have to adjust with how things are now until we find out if something can be done y'know?" Then out of curiosity, another question popped into Hana's head.

"Hey, Mi-hime, do you remember anything about the clan that you and I used to use?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 20, 2015, 08:10:29 PM: 'T-the clan that we used? What would that be?' She thought for a second. Sure her memories told her that she'd used Pale Moon, and that Hana had used Angel Feather since they started playing vanguard. She could picture Hana winning Nationals with Angel Feather. But still, her experiences had contradicted that.

'If what I'm feeling is correct, it's not Pale Moon or Angel Feather is it? But I have no memory of ever using a clan other than Pale Moon.' Although, she had possibly felt something for a second, when she first placed down her starter. A feeling of preparing for a different kind of performence then the circus tricks that she usually tried to perform in a cardfight.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 20, 2015, 08:16:09 PM: Hana looked at Mi-hime, seemingly more deep in thought than usual. "I see..." she looked down on the table, casting her own reflection upon it. She thought to herself, "It seems that Mi-hime doesn't remember much but just like everyone else, she does feel that something that should be there is missing. I don't want to worry her anymore. I should probably change the subject at hand." Hana looked back up, Mi-hime was still in deep thought.

"Mi-hime I guess we things will just unfold on their own right?... If we can't even point our finger on what it really is, there's no use worrying. Let's just live each moment to the fullest!"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 20, 2015, 08:21:05 PM: 'Yeah, let's do that', she replied. 'No point in worrying about these kinds of things if I don't even know why I'm worried.' She shrugged and went to finish eating the meal.

Finishing up her meal, she put her plate down, looking around for a place to wash it. Noticing a nearby sink, she stood up, walking over there. 'By the way' she said, calling over her shoulder. 'Did you have any particular plans for the day? It's already quite late, but I don't really have much to do really.'
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 20, 2015, 08:34:23 PM: Satoshi walked up to the gate and rang the bell. His plan, when he got back to the forest in the first place, was to find Yukino and Haruka, get their numbers, and maybe see what Muse had to offer. If anything, maybe he could understand what Seph wasn't telling him.

Problem was, he hadn't a damned clue where they went because he hadn't had a phone at the time. So he couldn't just text and sey, "Hey, where are you guys? Something cool happened and I wanna talk to you all about it." After all, he had a pretty good feeling those two had also been to PSY Shop.

So he had decided, instead, to see if they were at the Espoir Mansion still, the two silly lovebirds. Maybe they were having a fight of the tongues rather than a fight of Cray's clans.

"Anyone home?" he asked through the gate's radio. "It's Satoshi."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 20, 2015, 09:20:37 PM: Seeing as Hana told her that she'd be busy for a bit, she decided to leave the mansion. She wasn't really sure what she was going to do, she just felt like doing something. As she was walking out of the door, and up to the gates she noticed a man standing there.

'Is that Geodude?' she thought.

'Hi, um Geodude? Or whatever your name actually is. What are you doing here right now?' she asked through the gate.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 21, 2015, 01:07:55 AM: Satoshi blinked. Time had passed so suddenly, he had missed Hana's friend---Miyuki, was it?---ask him what he was doing here. Instead, a bunch of servants stared at him just standing there.

"Are you coming in?" one of them asked.

"Uh..." Satoshi shook his head. "If I could just get Yukino's number, I'll text her. Got a phone." He waved the celluar device. The servants seemed reluctant until the one servant that helped him before with clothes stepped forward.

"This kid's Miss Espoir's Royal Guard. No harm in sharing the number with him." He then explained to Satoshi how to add numbers and text. One would think the farm boy would have a tough time learning, but as it turned out, he was a fast learner. He sent a message Yukino's way:

"Hey, I just went to PSY Shop. Need to talk to you and Haruka at some point. Got a phone, this is my number.

Satoshi"

He bowed to the servants and then went on his way, hoping to get a message back.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 21, 2015, 01:14:01 AM: Hana was in the kitchen, adding some eggs to her cake when a worker had informed her that they had a visitor. She quickly removed her apron with an egg printed on it and ordered one of the workers to finishing stirring the mixture and to put it into the oven. After rushing over to the main hall, Hana saw Geodude texting someone.

"Since when did he have a phone?" She wondered to herself. She then waved at him to try to get his attention and greeted him.
"Hello Geodude, how are you this evening." She gave him a curtsy as she said the greeting.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 21, 2015, 01:42:00 AM: Receiving Satoshi's text and saving his number, a fatigued queen returns home. Her stomach growled, thankfully not inside the house. She forgot to eat again...

"Are you alright?" A concerned lion - Ezel checked on her.

"I'm... okay."

"Ahmes and Alfred noted that you've begun taking care of yourself less and less. It's more than showing."

"I'm alright, Ezel. Thank you, and thank you for today. I really owe all of you an apology for being so skeptical and uncomfortable. You're all still knights under the Sanctuary. More importantly, you're all precious comrades of mine."

Yugure dodged the actual problem... Scared, hungrier, sleepier, these were all symptoms of declining mental health. She simply shrugged it off, trying to focus on Cray's situation. Focusing on fighting and understanding, while furthering her relationship with those she cares about. While everyone was happy with that, Ezel most certainly wasn't at the expense of her own being. He watched as she waited a few moments before going inside, trying to make sure her stomach quiet down so none of the maids greet the Chosen Sword with a lecture or a scolding. When it finally shut up, Yukino walked inside while texting.

"I'm here, just let me grab something to eat before I come to the Guest Room."

The lion sighed, and the wolf shared his sentiments.

Gold Paladin +20 Affinity
Ezel +20 Affinity
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 21, 2015, 01:47:06 AM: At that moment, Hana also received word from one of the workers that her sister had just come home. Her eyes widened in excitement that perhaps there would be another dinner over at Espoir Mansion today. She bowed once again to Geodude and apologized, "Ah! Sorry I got to go prepare dinner!!!" She hurried excitedly into the kitchen, and put on her egg apron. She order the workers to fetch her a dozen of eggs so that she could make omelettes. Meanwhile, her cake had just finished baking so she removed from the stove and prepared to put icing on it. Beside where she placed the cake was a bag of cookies that she specifically made for Miyuki.

"Everyone let's gogo!! We have to prepare a feast!" She ordered everyone as the workers quickly hustled across the kitchen somewhat giggling about the young mistress' energy.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 21, 2015, 01:57:38 AM: Haruka finds himself showing up at the Espoir Household for another evening. He was originally here to find Satoshi and see what he was up to. Instead, he found himself with Miyuki at the park earlier that day. He was secretly somewhat looking forward to seeing Yukino, as well as Hana. Just seeing people again would be nice, considering he spent all evening in his own home and at the park.

I wonder if Yukino's here... I mean, it's kind of late. Wait, I need to find Satoshi too.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 21, 2015, 03:10:25 AM: Satoshi received her text, sitting in the guest room. Hana and the servants had let him in for the sake of waiting for Yukino's return. The littlest sister was busy preparing her own little feast. It smelled delicious, and he secretly hoped he could have a bite or two. Or three. Or five.

He sat with his cards sprawled across the table, making adjustments here and there as he smiled at Muse. She was welcomed warmly by the rest of his cards, her now being his new avatar. At least until he understood what was going on with Seph. Speaking of...

Satoshi looked over at Seph, who was lost in thought on the couch in his spiritual form. Was he ever going to tell him why he was acting so quiet, or was he going to have to prod some people who could have answers...like Mr. Espoir or Tomo? He shrugged and went back to adjusting his deck.

He especially wanted to practice tonight.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 21, 2015, 03:34:06 AM: Haruka was glad to be here, however something had come over him. He made it to the front door, and had his hand on the doorbell. But he didn't press it. Or rather, he couldn't press it. Something felt foreboding all of a sudden. His insides were tied in knots and his head was whirring. He tried several times to press it, but nothing happened. He couldn't even get his hand on the door at that point.

With a step back, he looked up. The balcony. He gave a thin smile. The one he used to, before he met all of his friends. Before he found his own strength. A thin, pasted on smile. He sighed, and turned around. A decision had been made.

"Haruka here! Just wanted to say good night! :3" Haruka pressed send on a text directed to Yukino.

That'll suffice. I need to sleep or something. Maybe I'll call in the morning...

Haruka suffered from what felt like a fatal illness all way back to his house. Even when his head hit the pillow, the word he had heard all the way home rung in his ears like a metronome that never stopped.

That bloody name.

Seraphim. Seraphim. Seraphim.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 21, 2015, 03:41:00 AM: Yugure managed to keep up an act of deception for a good two minutes before nearly passing out. Though the servants insisted she get some rest after getting something to eat, the queen explained that speaking with Satoshi was more important. She needed to be awake. After awhile, they gave up trying to force their queen into recovering. They told her of Hana's upcoming egg feast, and this caused a giggle. The Espoirs were rather obsessed with eggs, but Yukino was the odd one out who never understood it... and preferred more meats and sweets.

Everyone sat her down, gave her a dosage of the queen's favorite apple juice, and tended to every other whim possible as they waited.

Yukino responded to Haruka's text: "ttyl in the morning, we need to talk about PSY, sleep tight".
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 21, 2015, 03:50:54 AM: Satoshi yawned. It was another late night, but the more he thought about it, the more it made sense to want to go later and later. He needed to be ready, at any time of day, for anything that could happen to the Queen or Haruka. Lost in thought for a moment, a servant came in and mentioned that Yukino was eating before coming up to the guest room.

He sighed. "That girl really need to watch her health..." Hypocritical, of course, because he was up at this time too. Luckily, he had swung by home with Haruka and eaten some of the remaining food. He was in pretty good shape right now. "Can you tell her that she can take as long as she likes eating and that I'll wait regardless?" He paused for a moment, and then said, "And...there's a bit of wine in the fridge from the feast last night. I stored it in the back. Can you bring it up with some glasses?"

The servant raised a inquiring eyebrow. "You aren't planning on seducing Miss Yukino, are you, Mr. Satoshi?"

Satoshi blushed a little and shook his head. "N-no, no. It's freshly squeezed grape wine. I'm thristy, and it's one of my favorite things to drink. I just thought I'd share when she comes up, though I'll probably have had a bit of it in the meantime." Before the servant could question him again, he quickly added, "The alcohol content is little to none and I don't think either of us are lightweights, so please don't worry about it." The servant sighed, but agreed to it and bowed before exiting the room to perform his tasks.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 21, 2015, 04:32:57 AM: "Perfect!"

Hana had finished her egg cake which was a cake that was shaped like an egg. It had vanilla icing as the shell, and and creamy mango ice cream in the core of the cake, like an egg. The cake was perfect and heavenly, like an egg.

The other workers had also finished their dishes, and they were all now ready to serve. Hana commanded them to go get the visitors around the house to inform them that dinner was now ready. Hana was also wondering where Miyuki has gone, because she was wondering where's she's been. Hana even baked her cookies! She headed to the dining area to set the table for everyone. This has been the first day where she's been able to fully relax herself in so long.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 21, 2015, 04:33:32 AM: Despite trying to hurry, quite a bit of time had still passed. 'Oh well, it can't be helped' she thought. She just hoped that she hadn't kept Hana and Haruka waiting. As she walked up to the gate, one of the workers noticed her, and let her in, telling her 'that a feast was being prepared.' This confused her, but she made her way to the door.

'At least I can navigate the outside without getting lost' she thought. Although the workers had probably told them that she was coming, she rang the doorbell instead. It'd feel wrong just walking casually into the house with no actual warning.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 21, 2015, 04:59:31 AM: Upon hearing about Miyuki's arrival, Hana became filled with joy and headed into the kitchen to get fetch the bag of cookies. After retrieving it, she made her way back to the dining area where she placed it on the table along with her Vanguard deck. Hana has been noticing that she's been feeling a bit strange around her friend lately, or at least, strange feelings have been coming to her mind whenever she thought of Mi-hime and she wasn't sure what it was.

"I'm a cupid." Nociel commented.
"W-what could that even mean? I know you're stupid!" Hana asked, flustered.
"You know Hana! I'm a love machine gun!" Nociel laughed a little.
"How did you even get past the weapons check for the manor then?!" She continued arguing against the unknown feeling.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 21, 2015, 05:12:41 AM: Well, the door had swung open after she'd rung it, so she guessed it meant that it was fine to go in. She asked a butler this time to lead her, not wanting to get lost like beforehand. Making her way through the huge mansion, her thoughts drifted a bit. The first day she had gone to Hana's house had been similar to this. She'd been invited over, but had had to deal with something at home first. When she actually turned up, she'd been awed by the size, and just followed some workers to her destination.

'Thinking of it, ever since I really met Hana, we haven't been apart for that long. Sure we weren't together all the time, but she has played a huge part in my life since I met her.' Feeling herself slipping down memory lane again, she shook her head, and realised that the butler had stopped. Gathering that he had lead her to the dining area, she thanked him and went inside. Spotting Hana inside, she waved.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 21, 2015, 05:14:30 AM: Satoshi yawned a little more. He was getting kind of tired, and the couch was rather comfortable. Maybe he'd sleep here another night...

In fact, Yukino hadn't come up yet. It wasn't really that he was impatient, but the wine's buzz was soothing to his excitement over Muse and he really felt like he could just curl up asleep.

Wine still in the chiller the waiter provided, Satoshi started to doze on the couch. Seph also felt a bit tired, so he receded back into his champion's deck, though still keeping a listening ear out for Yukino, Haruka...or perhaps Hana.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 21, 2015, 05:21:04 AM: Ighanna's driver got us to the mansion in record time. More like breaking every rule of the road. But it was worth it.

Ighanna's chauffeur then honked the car horn loud to signal that we were here. Neo stood tall as he was ready to ask the questions that could lead him to why Kagero disappeared. And maybe the disapperance of his parents.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Azuki Frappé on August 21, 2015, 05:26:35 AM: As both of them stepped out of the car, the Espoir's plentitude of maids and butler welcomes them and questions what business do they have here today.

"We would like to have an audience with the Espoir mistresses and her guests, also this person over here will be staying over with the rest of the party again so sorry for the trouble." Ighanna declared to the head butler as they open the large wooden door into the elegant mansion. A maid then lead both of us to the living room in which she waited as another maid comes in and delivers a stand of afternoon tea snacks along with a teapot of warm Indian Darjeeling tea, this reminded her of her time in London.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 21, 2015, 05:30:55 AM: Neo waited in the living room for everyone to come.

In the meanwhile he took out his Dragonic Kaiser Vermillion and Armor Break Dragon cards and started to space out thinking to himself "Is there even more power for Narukami I dont know about? And that girl who used Kagero even though the clan is gone.." Neo said to himself. He awaited for Hana and others before thinking any futher
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 21, 2015, 05:31:50 AM: "M-Mi-hime!" Hana blushed a little from what Nociel had been saying. No, it couldn't have been that. Hana had never been interested in such things, her love was only for dancing and singing because she had Bermuda Triang-. She doesn't have them anymore so maybe those feelings now are actually possible.

"Your seat is over here!... next to me."

Hana had ordered one of the workers to help Mi-hime get into the chair next to her. She was also informed that [ GUEST CODENAME : DOGEKAISER ] had entered the vicinity of the area, well living room. She asked some of the workers to go and fetch him as well as Iguana-chan who's car was apparently spotted breaking the traffic laws outside. Hana then sat quietly again, in her own thoughts.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 21, 2015, 05:33:06 AM: Satoshi wanted to doze off, but noise from downstairs indicated there were guests. He sat up, rubbing his eyes to wake himself up a bit.

The sound of clacking heels...was that Ighanna? He remembered she was by and didn't really have the opportunity to speak with any of them, because after the meal, they had passed out. Maybe it would do him some good to have a little something to keep him awake.

He walked out of the room and downstairs to the dining room, bringing the chilled wine with him. He peeked his head into the dining room when he arrived.

"Hana?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 21, 2015, 05:38:48 AM: With everyone gathered in the living room, Neo was ready to speak.

"The reason im here is because I found out some infomation about the missing clans..." Neo started to say. "And then... I cardfought someone. This girl and she used Kagero against me.. My memory is foggy but i remember using Kagero in the past somewhat" Neo continued.

"I also needed to ask you again Hana, do you know anything more about Narukami and the Dragonic Kaiser Vermillion?" Neo asked.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Azuki Frappé on August 21, 2015, 05:46:53 AM: Ighanna tries to continue the conversation as she brings out Metatron from her handbag and as she guessed, everyone here probably already knows about the disappearance of the four main clans.

"I remember correctly, last time the person who you called Jello was also involved in this, yes? From his battle with Yukino from the slums he seemed to be using a clan whom strength opposes Yukino's "Royal Paladins", the "Shadow Paladins" however I happen to meet him at the Shopping District and he was using "Aqua Forces" instead, so I can assume that none of us should be able to use the "lost clans" but if what Neo said is true, how can she wield the lost clan of flame dragons, "Kagero"?" Ighanna questions as she warns everyone to not be surprised about the fact that she knows about the lost clans. Metatron is a wise high-ranked angel after all.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 21, 2015, 05:57:19 AM: "Ah! Geodude, take a seat and eat with us!" Hana offered.

DogeKaiser instantly made the event extremely serious. Hana actually wanted to go a whole day without having to think about the whole sealed clans ordeal. She's been bothered about it by the alliances of Cray non-stop for the past two months and on top of that, her own heart has been changing, her mind causing her to just burst into tears during strange times when the memory of Bermuda Traingle strikes her. This was really that last thing she needed during a day in which she just wanted to relax. She rubbed her head and sighed.

"Someone using Kagero huh?..." So there might be hope that the sealed clans are returning she thought, but who was this person. Hana looked up back at DogeKaiser and said, "I'll have to check on the status of what exactly is going on with that later. Also what do you need to know about Narukami really?... I think aside from when I speak to Vermillion during meetings, there really isn't much difference between what we both know at this point."

"Jellal was using Aqua Force, that was his goal during the last time we met anyways, no surprise that he was able to bring it back after his fight with Yukinee right?... for things to ask around about." Hana made the list in her head and sighed a little, both tired of all this, and also hoping that there is a slim chance that this would free the sealed clans.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 21, 2015, 06:02:39 AM: "Im sorry if i came off serious right away" Neo said while shaking his hands

"You guys are the only people I can talk to about this, and I figured you would have wanted the infomation. But the question I had about Narukami isnt important anymore.." Neo said

Neo started to rapidly think in his head. Vanguard is supposed to be fun, not so serious like I have been lately."

Neo then looked down at his deck. "What would my parents think of me? Using anger to try to find the answers"

Neo then sipped some of his tea.

Im sorry if I made any of you upset. I uh... "Not knowing what to say, Neo started to head to the spare room thinking everyone didnt want to talk anymore"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 21, 2015, 06:06:37 AM: After everyone had gathered, they immediatly launched into serious talk. Something about clans being missing, and a person using Kagero. She sighed inwardly, but resigned herself to trying to remember what happened. Memories of these clans had obviously been replaced, as well as memories of another clan.

These thoughts stopped when she looked at Hana. She saw her sigh, and look down. She moved her chair closer to Hana, and held her hand. She almost glared at Neo for bringing up the topic, but knew it was hardly his fault. At least he realised that he'd destroyed the mood though, and backed off, vanishing into the spare room.

'Well then, let's not get caught up on this right? Ighanna, how have you been? Haven't seen you for a few days?'
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Azuki Frappé on August 21, 2015, 06:11:29 AM: "I'm fine, my schedule has been very tight lately so I didn't really get the opportunity to cardfight. Last one I has was with Jellal when I met him a little while before the Victoria's Secret Shop opening so that was kinda during work" Ighanna replied as she sighs a little to sound tired. With Queen Elizabeth's task and her personal career interfering each other she hasn't been able to get much sleep. After staring at Miyuki's face a little, her puzzled look probably suggests that she knows nothing about the lost clans.

"Also Satoshi, thanks for last dinner, the food was extremely delicious, I ate a bit too much haha. I hope I'll have the privilege of tasting your wonderful gourmet selection again next time!" thanked Ighanna as she recalls about last dinner and the elegant full course of meal.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 21, 2015, 06:23:03 AM: Neo seems to have left the room. He seems to have understood that he came far too sudden and far too serious for the occasion. Tomorrow, Hana returns back to having to look at the situations on Cray. Hopefully she would be able to get answers by then. She kept a mental note of all the things that she had to ask as well as persons of interest. First on the list would be Neo who she must apologize too, but at the same time, she hoped that he would take time to relax as well, it's unhealthy to always be so stressed out.

It seems that Mi-hime ha changed the subject, and the mood grew lighter. All of the sudden, Mi-hime had gotten more close to her and held her hand. Hana blushed a little and made sure to not move her hads at all.

Then there was Iguana-chan and Queen Elizabeth again... probably not that Queen Elizabeth...

"Where has Jellal been anyways and how's he doing?" Hana asked.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 21, 2015, 06:27:44 AM: Neo closed the spare room door as quietly as he could trying not to make a sound. He prepared his bed and layed down with too much on his mind.

"I miss you guys so much" Neo said refering to his parents.

Neo planned to apologize to Hana for what he just did, coming off as serious about the missing clans. Intil then Neo just decided to try to clam down, relax and go to sleep while everyone else talking in the living room.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 21, 2015, 06:29:58 AM: Satoshi stared off into space in a daze. The moment the name "Royal Paladin" was mentioned in conjuction with the questions about Kagero and Narukami, Seph realized it was time to spill the beans, and while the group discussed the serious affairs briefly, the spirit explained everything to his champion. It would probably be a mistake to, but in the end...what was there to hide from someone who needed to play a role in saving Cray?

The clans being sealed...His memories being altered...Everything made sense, even if it didn't. It meant that someone out there was manipulating Earth on top of Cray. It meant that there were still a lot of questions and not enough answers. So many things going on at once...

Satoshi was happy Seph had finally said something, but all the same...he felt his headaches from earlier resurface. As a result, after nodding in acknowledgement to Ighanna's praising of his meal, there was only one thing he could do.

He chugged the bottle of wine, holding it by the part still contained in the chiller.

Ighanna +2 AP
Seph +15 AP
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Azuki Frappé on August 21, 2015, 06:32:20 AM: "Well I met Jellal at the shopping districts but I'm not sure what he's up to nowadays, though I'm so embarrassed I called him Jello all this time, Hana your nicknames are misleading ~_~" says Ighanna trying to lighten up the mood.

"Well since Neo's gone into his room and its getting pretty late, I'll take my leave then, say thanks to Mr. Espoir for me too. The tea and snacks were delicious" Ighanna yelled as she stood up from the chair and walked towards the front door. The butler then bowed elegantly and her chauffeur was already waiting at the front steps surprisingly. The butler must have called him beforehand, good service.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 21, 2015, 01:29:51 PM: It was morning, and another long night had come and gone. Neo woke up and went to wash up, put on a change of clothes and started to head out the mansion while everyone else is sleeping. Neo however had left behind a note for everyone in the mansion.

"Dear Everyone,

I would like to thank you all again for letting me stay over again last night. I also would like to apologize for last night. I just threw questions at all of your faces about the missing clans. I didnt take into account that you all could be affected by this. For that I am sorry. If you guys want to cardfight or even talk or ask me something, just hunt me down. Im not that hard to track. Thanks again. Neo" The letter said

With that Neo headed out

"Now then, where should I go today?" Neo said to himself
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 21, 2015, 06:46:29 PM: Ugh, dammit... Yugure groaned, awakening in her room in the upcoming evening. The queen meant to speak with Satoshi, but wound up falling asleep in her chair at dinner. Forcing herself to sit up while gently facepalming over her stupidity... she took awhile to finally get out of bed. Today was the day to start getting real answers, including answers about that girl who had Shadow Paladin. Though, the woman subsequently rolled out of bed by accident, hitting the ground with a loud thud. "God..." she moaned in pain and annoyance.

While crawling over to the closet to get ready, Yukino sent Hana, Satoshi, and Haruka a text:

"Where are you right now?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 21, 2015, 06:49:16 PM: "I'm in the woods. was clearing mind."

Haruka hits send, sitting from a tree stump back in the forest.

The mosquitoes are vicious today.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 21, 2015, 06:55:52 PM: Satoshi mumbled, feeling his phone vibrate. He was back in the guest room, a new chilled bottle of wine sitting on the table with a note in front of it reading:

Don't go overboard this time.

He sent Yukino a text before rolling over once again:

I'm in the guest room. Passed out last night from wine and good feelings.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 21, 2015, 07:21:15 PM: Hana had just won Mi-hime a teddy bear and was jumping around when she got the text.

"Oh I'm with Mi-Hime at the Amusement Park today."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 21, 2015, 07:28:55 PM: "I'm coming to the Amusement Park. Haruka and Satoshi, you guys go there too. Hana, we need to talk about PSY."

After forwarding that message to everyone, the queen slowly prepared herself. Upon exiting her room to shower, a servant forced a stick of french toast in her mouth. Her forgetful majesty wasn't skipping out of another meal by "accident" today again, A bit annoyed with how they began smothering her, Yugure still managed to not yell at anybody. Quickly swiping the Gold Paladin deck off of a table, she snuck out before anyone else jumped on her about maintaining her health.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 21, 2015, 07:31:35 PM: Receiving her text, Satoshi grumbled again as he pulled out his phone, only to jump straight up when he read the text. Throwing on some freshly laundered clothes that had apparently been left out for him and freshening up a bit in the nearby bathroom, he dashed off, shouting out to the night:

"MISS YUKI! WAIT FOR ME!"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 22, 2015, 05:41:24 AM: The Espoir Household is suddenly colder. The atmosphere was sullen, and wails filled the sound waves. Haruka knelt in front of Yukino, cradling her sister Hana.

He gave it his all to make it better. He tried everything he could think of.

Jokes. Which all sucked.

Stories. None of them were interesting.

Compliments. He felt as though all of them would be denied and were sort of uncalled for to begin with.

He was unable to bear the burden of Yukino and Hana like this. Haruka's fire was being dampened and all he could do was try and try again. But the mood wouldn't budge. Something had broken in the Espoir sisters, it seemed.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 22, 2015, 05:48:41 AM: Ezel and Garmore felt as powerless as their queen. Garmore felt even worse, failing to protect important people in his previous clan. Of course, as a knight, he had to save everyone he could. And he did, saving innocent bystanders along with other, lower ranked warriors among the Sanctuary. Yet... The same question played in the wolf-armored man's mind: "What if I saved them instead?" The belief that he could've possibly brought about a greater solution to the War of Liberation by still having their original commanders...

He needed some time alone to collect himself.

The lion understood his feelings - the queen's feelings. Yet, he also understood more than anyone at the moment the will of those locked away. While despair of the past choked knights and humans, hope for the future remained in his heart. A kind of warm flare that he wished he could impart unto the Espoirs.

Ezel +10 Affinity

Back at the mansion, Yukino stayed in the same place. Holding a sobbing Hana while staying quiet...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 22, 2015, 05:53:14 AM: Well this wasn't looking good. Both the Espoir siblings looked like their souls had been crushed, they were wallowing in despair. She desperately tried to take their mind off of things, divert their attention, anything to lessen the pain. Nothing was working however.

She glanced at Haruka, who was also trying to help them. Miyuki silently questioned him if he had any idea what to do, but his attempts seemed to also be failing. Despite both their efforts, nothing seemed to be getting through. In the end, all she could do was hold Hana, and whisper semi-comforting words to her.

'Is there anything more that I can do?' she thought. Her thoughts turned to Mr. Espoir, however she got the feeling this was something he couldn't interfere in. Giving Haruka another look as if to say 'we have to do this', she continued trying various means to coax the siblings back into a semi normal state. Even if it felt like there was nothing that could be done right now, she had to try.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 22, 2015, 05:56:50 AM: She held her sister tightly, feeling a deep loneliness in her heart that had been building up for two months being released in the form of the actions in which she did now. Hana doesn't want to cry, not right now. What she wants to do is comfort her sister, and be optimistic in the face of this challenge, but for some reason, her mind and body reject her commands. Eventually she got herself to speak.

"S-s...orr... y Y-u...ki... nee." She said, struggling, but then also there was someone else that she had to apologize to and be strong for.
"M-Mii-hime... I was...selfish." Pausing for a moment, Hana recollected her thoughts. "It.. was ... y...our cl...an too.... and I ...."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 22, 2015, 06:05:03 AM: Haruka responds to Miyuki with a nod, responding to the glance. But no matter what he tried, the sobs wouldn't end and neither of them would move.

Until Hana found herself a voice. A weak one, mixed with cries and wails, but it came out. She apologized to Miyuki, about Bermuda Triangle disappearing. Haruka was speechless at the thought. He completely forgot that was Miyuki's clan too, and now it was suddenly stripped from the both of them.

He was out of options. He was exhausted. His steam was past empty and he was running on fumes. But he couldn't give up on these people now. Not after so much. Despite how easily he could shut his eyes and pass out, he ended up staying awake a second night in a row to keep these girls from falling any further.

With occasional checks with Miyuki, the two had to keep fighting. Miyuki was already sending signals Harukas way. He saw her determination to stay with Hana and fight through all of it with her. It was inspiring at least. He smiled a little at it.

So this is that feeling we talked about on the bench. The one of never wanting to see these people hurt.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Kisaragi Zane on August 22, 2015, 06:10:18 AM: Jellal's first time in the Espoir mansion, albeit, he'd of preferred to have entered under better circumstances. Seeing everyone in such a sad state made him feel down. He remained silent as he wasn't exactly good at cheering people up, not like how he used to be. But it was to be expected, he couldn't understand what it felt like to be separated from your clan.

Then again, he had already lost things before, the pain it causes, the despair that ached into the mind, body, and soul. He knew it all too well, for it was then he knew that he could relate to them and better understood how they felt: the feeling failure and being powerless to stop it from happening. Those feelings is what made him feel he needed to accept his weakness and get stronger by any means to face those demons. Those feelings that led him to the Shadow Paladin, which are now gone from him. Even though he disliked Phantom Blaster Dragon, he still felt a bit upset that his former avatar: Blaster Dark, was taken away from him. That and, the deck that he was using, belonging to a friend, was no longer in existence to return to. He soaked it all in, their emotions, and his own emotions and experiences. He took out his deck and looked at Blue Storm Dragon Maelstrom.

"I have what I've been looking for." he said to himself in his mind. "But..." he turned to face the sisters who were broken and devastated. "They recently lost what they've had their entire life..." He shut his eyes and walked approached the group. There was only one thing he could do or say to them to see what they plan to do.

"You're not giving up are you?" He asked in a calm voice looming over Yukino. "What about you?" He looked over to Hana. "And you?" He turned his body to face to Haruka.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 22, 2015, 06:15:30 AM: Satoshi lay on the floor, still struggling with his mind. How could it be that the being's form caused him so much pain to look at? Groaning a bit, he passed out, his body beginning to strain as though he were about to have a seizure. Never before had anything this intense befell his body. Not even the heavy lifting on the farm.

His mind took him to a dark abyss, where the form of the being once again showed itself. But this time, instead of pain, he felt nothing. Only familiarity. Calmness, even.

A voice rang through his mind:

"Strange, isn't it? You want to seal away the pain that you've felt. The suffering. The disappointment. The misery. The despair. You want to lock it away as your memories were, make it so that you're protecting everyone. That's how you convinced that TOMO-ZO, after all."

"I..."

"Yet even when you try, you cannot escape the feelings of loss. You cannot deny how detached you are. Why would your own guardian lie to you about your memories? What purpose does it serve to keep you in the dark? Stupid, stupid, stupid." The voice accentuated the last words, making them ring throughout Satoshi's heart and soul as well as his head. "Locking away how you really feel for hope...foolish."

The voice laughed. "You should realize that the real answer is that those who hope should be locked away. Life is a cycle of continual despair. Even hope for the future has an unlucky outcome. In time...you'll understand this and want to lock it all away, too. Knowing there is only despair is what is truly liberating, after all."

Satoshi suddenly shot awake, coughing up blood. The pain was gone instantly, but the experience he had...it was all he could think about. He wanted to speak, but he feared no one would understand or believe him, so he closed his mouth instead, breathing slowly.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 22, 2015, 06:16:50 AM: Miyuki froze for a second when she heard Hana's words. Of course she had come to realise that BT was her clan as well, she had pieced the bits together, but it still hurt. However, she also knew that this could not compare to how Hana was feeling.

'H-hah, don't be silly Hana, it's fine. There is no need at all for you to apologise, and you aren't being selfish.' She tried to put her feelings into words, but wasn't fully successful. However, unable to leave it at that, she gave Hana a hug as well. A slightly awkward one, seeing as Yukino was holding her as well, but it was the least she could do.

'Just calm down for now, and relax'. She could hear Jello or whatever speak some words behind her, but she didn't really pay attention. Mentally, she thanked Haruka as well, he had inspired her as well, with his efforts.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 22, 2015, 06:19:09 AM: Was she giving up? Did Yukino even have a choice in the matter?

Not answering anybody, Yugure simply rose to her feet, helping Hana stand. Having the little sister lean on her, she took her inside. The others were motions to come inside and spend the night if they wanted. How the queen yearned to say that Hana had nothing to apologize for, but words failed to escape beyond her lips. Just another failure to chalk up on the life of the Chosen Sword. It was her job to help Hana find some peace, at least. She wanted to start with getting Hana to sleep... So they traveled to her bedroom. Squeezing Hana's shoulders, holding the princess closer after every few steps. This walking was almost to the point of stepping on each other's shoes, but a reasonable amount of distance was kept.

The queen cut off her emotions, focusing on carrying the princess back to happiness of possible. Or simply finding enough calm to rest through the remainder of the night. All that was important was fixing Hana...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 22, 2015, 06:26:43 AM: They were gone. While motioned to come in, Haruka had something just posed to him.

He stood up, groggily. His legs were wobbling beneath him, and his eyes were bloodshot from lack of sleep. He looked at Jellal with every ounce of whatever was left in his conscious.

"Give up? That's a joke, right?" His grin was unbearably honest, something you see from delirious people or psychos. Haruka might be both in the end. But right now, he knew what he was saying. He was never going to give up on anybody. He had devoted himself to this from the moment he fought for Yukino when she went to Shadow Paladins.

He looked at Jellal, breathed in and out. Then spoke. "I'm. Never. Ever. Giving. Up." He swallowed the remainder of his energy, walked through the front door, and passed out in the hallway.

Before falling totally unconscious, he mentally noted he needed to talk to Miyuki and Jellal again, and devise a course of action while the Espoirs recovered.

Jellal +5 AP

Miyuki +5 AP
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 22, 2015, 06:50:48 AM: Satoshi pushed himself up, wiping up the blood with a bit of his shirt. Everyone else had essentially left for the night, distraught over events. But unlike previous nights, he was wide awake. No amount of wine, food, good times, or anything of the sort would get him to bed right now. He was completely focused on what he experienced during his blackout.

<Locking away hope...> The notion was jarring. The voice had said that his confidence was falsified by sealing his pain and loneliness, but the thing was that he wasn't alone. Logically, he had sealed the truth to feel bad about himself, and had unsealed it with kind words and reassurance, did he not? How was this lying to himself that things would be okay?

Well, then again, they weren't. Hana was a sobbing mess. Haruka had never looked more bitter and frustrated. Miyuki and Jellal were at losses for words. Ighanna had remained silent, uncharacteristic of her. And Yukino...she looked the most emotionally distant of all. The amount of pain this was causing her was unprecedented. And to go through it all like she did...Satoshi couldn't imagine what it was like.

Seph sat cross-legged next to him with crossed arms. "Well, now what? FUKI wouldn't share with us any more details, and you all look to be in bad shape. Perhaps it would be good to rest and mull over what you've learned..."

Satoshi shook his head. The experience he just had...and the documented memories that PSY Shop had shown them...the figure and the girl who played the figure---

Something clicked. He stood up. There was an answer. A very difficult answer to pursue, but a lead nonetheless.

"Neu Edelweiss." Satoshi lowered his brow for a moment, then nodded, agreeing with himself about the name he just said. He had to find Neu Edelweiss. While she was more than likely a danger to be in contact with, she was likely the only one with answers. Not just for the memories...but for the words he just heard. Something about them seemed...dictated. Not by a being of Cray, but a real, human being.

He whipped out his phone and rapidly typed a text to Yukino, though it was quite long:

Miss Yuki,
I'm very sorry for everything that was discovered and learned about tonight. I know the hardships you are going through, and trust me when I say that I want to be there for you as much as I can, as well as for your sister, Hana. I was planning on staying the night, if that would not be any trouble.

Yet...something has happened. I've been having violent headaches, ones I can't possibly begin to describe, and it all has to do with that night. Something feels wrong, so very wrong that I need answers. And while I want to be here for you all, I can't just sit around and expect answers to fall into my lap. I think I have a lead, and I'm going to pursue it right now. I can't just sleep on this, I need to act now.

Please, keep in touch with me. I need to be sure that you all stay well. This has been driving all of us up a wall, and I need to do my part to help you all succeed. Share my number with Haruka, Hana and Jellal as well.

While I believe I can get the answers I'm looking for...I may need more help than expected. As I said, please, message me when you wake up.

Thank you,

Satoshi Kurosaki

He bowed shortly to Jellal and Miyuki. "I'm going now." He fastwalked out, bowing to various servants and stepping over Haruka's sleeping body in the hallway as he made his way out.

Seph sighed and followed, uncertain what his champion was really up to.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Azuki Frappé on August 22, 2015, 07:50:45 AM: Ighanna, uncertain of what to do, apologized to the group and cheered them up by ensuring they'll be fine.

"If you need my help, me and Metatron are always free to do so" said Ighanna as she gave everyone her number. She then called her her chauffeur to pick her up at the Espoir mansion and she supported Yukino and Hana who were probably feeling down the most. As soon as her driver arrives, she thanks her friends with courtesy and left off with a dry smile.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 22, 2015, 10:06:36 AM: After hearing everything that Neu had to say about the missing clans, Neo decided to walk over to Hana's mansion. He wanted to ask Yukino about the entire situation and wanted to know who this Jellal person was. Neo knew he had an important role to play in this entire thing and Neo was determined to found out what. As Neo walked closer and closer to the mansion, he started having flashbacks to the last time he was at the mansion.

"The last time I was here, things didnt go all that well" Neo said to himself almost at the front gate.

Last time Neo was just throwing questions left and right and not even thinking or caring about how everyone else felt. He knew back then he hurt Hana's feelings when asking about the missing clans. He knew that one of the missing clans, was hers. Neo didnt want to just barge in again and have a repeat, but he felt that he was so close to finding an answer. So he reached the front gate and rang the doorbell as the sun started to rise.

"I hope someone is awake to answer the door" Neo said to himself

It wouldnt surprise me if someone was awake considering everything
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 22, 2015, 02:14:53 PM: A worker opened the gate and bowed,

"Sorry, but everyone is still either asleep or currently occupied, we are not accepting visitors at this moment."

Dad Espoir upon seeing the state of his daughters along with their friends made this decision. They needed time for themselves and time amongst themselves. He worried for all of them and wanted to help however he can, but this kind of thing was not his strong point. Mom Espoir would usually be the best here as she is usually able to cheer up the daughters in an instant, but she is unfortunately on an important business trip abroad.

The worker closed the game.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 22, 2015, 02:18:22 PM: "Thats fine" Neo said

" I hope they feel better soon" Neo said

Neo then started walking, not sure where to go at this point.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 22, 2015, 04:17:44 PM: "...Hrm...Eh.." Haruka found himself lying on something soft. He felt around with his hand. Silk. Rolling over, he finds himself staring at a white ceiling and an ornate ceiling fan, decorated and gilded.

Right, Espoir House. He reached out to the dresser and turned on the tiny lamp. He sat up, rubbed the sleep off of his eyes and simply sat in silence.

What are you going to do, Seraphim? Save everybody?

Haruka's face warped into one of frustration. This darker undertone of a voice had been following Haruka for the past bit. Ever since the return of the damned name, he hasn't been able to escape it. However another voice accompanied it, in response.

"Damn right, he will. This man is a Knight! In fact, he's My Vanguard."

Vortimer?

"V-Vortimer?" Haruka said shakily. Vortimer materialized on the bed, in front of Haruka. He took off his helmet, revealing his long green hair.

"That's right. You're My Vanguard now, Haruka. We haven't bonded as much as you and the Overlord. Not even close... But... I trust you. We, the knights, formerly of the Shadow Paladins and Royal Paladins, have our complete trust in you to fix this." With those parting words, Vortimer gives a slight grin, one Haruka had never seen before. He then places his helmet back on, and disappears.

Hmmmm. I see. His strength will be known in due time then.

With that, both presences disappear altogether. Haruka stood up, using support of the wall. His body was still in nearly critical condition from the day before, plus the immense amount of fatigue he was suffering from. Haruka only slept for about five hours after all that happened.

He debated checking on the Espoirs, but knowing their mental fortitude and the state they were in, Haruka felt it best to stay out of it. At least, just for now. He limps downstairs onto the satin-covered sofas, and takes a seat. He stares at Vortimer a bit longer. All three generations, plus Spectral Duke Dragon.

"The Knights trust in me...?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 22, 2015, 05:30:48 PM: The nightmare of nearly being swallowed by the Rift and watching the gravitational monstrosity take away Cray's heroes connected itself to Neu's domination over Yukino, Haruka, and Jellal. It was far worse than before. Queen Yugure found herself with little to no sleep because of the replaying horror, and decided she got enough rest to carry her through the day. Time passed to late in the afternoon anyway. She staggered about, quickly throwing herself together to get ready.

Those who stayed the night might still be here. This would be a good time to talk to them and think over a plan. Before that, Yugure quietly knocked on Hana's door. If she was asleep, all was well for the time being. If she wasn't, the queen needed to focus on soothing her.

Still, the queen rubbed her eyes. She was tired...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 22, 2015, 05:49:49 PM: Hana had a really nice rest. She was able to sleep soundly, tired from the day before. She dreamed and dreamed a dream that she wished that she had never dreamed. It would've been better if she were awake. She saw her Bermuda Triangle again, along with many up and coming idols. She danced with them and the stormed the stage to be greeted a roaring crowd. The happiness was answered by stern disappointment when she woke up.

"Someone is knocking on your door," Nociel informed her.

"Right I better go get that." Hana rose from her bed and ran her fingers through her hair and scratched her eyes just to tidy herself a little. She then went over to the door and opened it. It was Yukinee.

"Hello Nee-san..." She greeted her sister.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 22, 2015, 05:51:07 PM: Hmm?

Haruka heard soft footsteps throughout the house. It was a large house for sure, but the acoustics made it easy to detect nearly anybody walking in the mansion. Who was up? Haruka had not the faintest idea where Miyuki was, if she had stayed. Hana and Yukino went to bed surely. Haruka... well he woke up in a bed, but he's 99% sure that's not where he had fallen asleep at first. And Haruka hadn't seen Jellal since last night either, after his little preach of determination.

That also poised the question of, Where was Satoshi?

Back to the footsteps.

While he wanted to call out, it could have easily been a butler or maid and Haruka didn't want to disturb their duties. He went ahead and checked around the house a bit more himself instead. He might come across the person anyways.

"Kitchen... kitchen..."

Haruka desperately craved a freshly brewed cup of coffee.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 22, 2015, 06:02:17 PM: Yukino ran a hand through Hana's navy blue hair, lowering it to caress the little sister's cheek. "How are you feeling?" The queen had come to check on her, and it looked like the princess already had a better time sleeping. Wanting to remember any negativity, big sister smiled and hugged the younger one.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 22, 2015, 06:13:43 PM: "Nee-san..." She was in surprise when her sister hugged her, a tender feeling, a truly heavenly kind of warmth.

It seems like her sister, unlike her had a hard time sleeping. The happiness that Hana felt inside her dream, she wanted to share it with her sister. She was only disappointed in the moment, but as the princess, she was taught by Pacifica and the others to always plan ahead, and to see the bigger picture. She kept her sister in the arms, enjoying the moment, as bittersweet as it felt, and she began to speak.

"Nee-san, I saw the Bermuda Triangle in my dream, and it wasn't just the ones that we're lost, I saw more idols and that's when I realized." She fell silent, the thoughts flowing into her head from her dream, made her smile now in reality, "there's a future for the Bermuda Triangle, there will be new idols and they will work hard to get their senpai back..." The way she saw the Bermuda Triangle in her dream, it was similar to the state of Gold Paladin now, that's why she wanted to tell her sister. "Ahmes and Yunos have their own kouhai... the Gold Paladin, and I don't think that we should feel like it's hopeless because we don't want to make the little brother and sisters of our old friends feel like they're not good enough. They want to get strong for their senpai, nii chan, and nee sans..." She grabbed onto her sister more tightly, "and I'm sure that they'll save them..."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 22, 2015, 06:14:56 PM: Miyuki had manage to walk over to a spare room before falling asleep. She didn't sleep well however, now that no-one was there the events of the day hit her. Bermuda Triangle huh. Trying to ignore these thoughts, she paced around the room for a bit, until falling into a restless sleep.

As usual it was late when she woke up. She didn't feel particularly better, but decided to move. 'Dwelling on things won't change them' she told herself. For now, she headed to the kitchen, to see if anyone else was up. If she could find it that is.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 22, 2015, 06:19:50 PM: "Coffee at last."

Haruka found himself sitting in the kitchen with, you guessed it, the butler who brought Haruka coffee two months ago and some. With a bow and a smile, Haruka received his cup of joe and sat at the kitchen table, savoring his morning treat. However that didn't last all too long, as thoughts started to whir in his head again.

Save everybody.

That was Haruka's initial goal before anything even close to an evil presence had occurred. Even now, Haruka was unsure if he was able to save anybody at all. And at that, if he would need saving.

He dropped the subject quickly as footsteps happened to be coming by. Light, again. Maybe the person from earlier? Regardless, nothing was going to drag Haruka from his morning coffee. Sips and gulps were all that was heard from the kitchen. Having such a high roof made the sounds obnoxiously loud as they bounced off of the walls, but it didn't bother Haruka, nor the butler. In fact, the butler was delighted with his handiwork. It was a decent day for the both of them so far.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 22, 2015, 06:24:13 PM: After a bit of walking around, and help from some workers, Miyuki managed to make her way to the kitchen. Peaking in, she could see Haruka sitting there. 'Looks like I was right' she thought. She entered the kitchen and sat opposite him. He seemed to be drinking some coffee.

'How are you? she asked. 'Oh yeah, I'd like to thank you for yesterday. It really helped me, seeing you try to comfort them.'

(Haruka +5 AP from the day before)
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 22, 2015, 06:26:35 PM: "But I'm their senior!" Garmore shouted.

Yugure held Hana in a tight embrace, listening to her beautiful image of the Mermaid Idols returning to new students - understudies of the diva way. Hearing this hope for the future lit up the queen's heart just a little bit. Just as Pacifica had a legion of musicians to return to, Ahmes and Yunos had a mass following of knights to come home to. Well, "unruly brats" as Yunos would belittle them to, but it was his affectionate way of claiming them as his brats. "It's not hopeless, we'll save them", Yukino responded to Hana's dream. Rubbing her back, they shared this sentiment. Unfortunately, it wasn't as strong for the queen. Another matter tugged at her heart, but Hana finding some peace kept said matter out of reach for the time being.

Her majesty eased up on the hold, pulling back with a hand on the princess' shoulder. "I'm glad you're feeling better."

Taking a step to Hana's side, an arm wrapped around her back. Yukino urged her to come to get something to eat to start off their day.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 22, 2015, 06:29:31 PM: Haruka looked up. So somebody had shown up, and it was somebody he actually needed to talk to as well.

"Hey there, Miyuki. I'm... Well I've been better." Haruka points raises the arm holding his coffee, noting all of the bandages draped across.

"But I'm better now. And I should be thanking you. I was about to pass out. Give up, I guess..." Haruka didn't want to admit that he even thought about giving up ever, but it was bound to happen if Miyuki's efforts to help as well hadn't rallied his strength.

"I should be thanking you, really." Haruka's voice was purely sincere. "Truthfully, I don't know if I would have ever been able to help them. But you've known Hana for a long time. I feel as though you're one of the few, Yukino as well, who could really help her right now." Haruka's voice trembled a little, only due to his lack of real sleep and sustenance. Haruka had nothing but cotton candy, and now coffee, in the past 48 hours.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 22, 2015, 06:41:19 PM: 'No need to thank me, I guess we both just tried to help the people we care about.' God that was corny she thought. She almost winced saying that, but it was how she felt. That aside, Haruka looked to be on the verge of collapsing.

'So, do you like eat anything other than ice cream? Because you certainly look, well out of it.' To be honest, although he was holding himself well, he looked horrible, those bandages really didn't help. 'It might not be the only thing on your mind, but you should eat something as well. If you want to help them, you have to make sure you don't seem to be about to die. Kinda worries them otherwise' she laughed, trying to force herself into a better mood.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 22, 2015, 06:51:53 PM: He sort of pouted at the comment about ice cream.

"So what if it is all I eat..." Haruka was obviously joking as his face broke into a genuine smile, and then laughter.

"It's been a little rough is all. I'll eat when I get home, or maybe have breakfast here if it's permitted." He nodded, understanding Miyuki's note on that if he himself wasn't healthy and ready to go, how could he expect to help others too?

Gotta help yourself before you can help others.

"Want anything Miyuki? This guy over here makes an amazing royal brew." Haruka pointed to the butler washing some dishes, who smiled at Haruka's remarked.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 22, 2015, 07:00:42 PM: Seph popped next to Yukino, sweating profusely. He had just come from the amusement park, where things with his champion had once again taken an awkward turn.

"Y-Yugure..." He didn't know what to tell her. It might not even be the best time, but...this wasn't going to go well if Neu Edelweiss had her way.

"Neu Edelweiss...we met her."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 22, 2015, 07:08:26 PM: Yugure sent off Hana to get food alone, as the queen had no appetite. Seph popping up in a nervous sweat already told her that he and Satoshi had some sort of falling out.

"And?"

Judging by Satoshi's text, this "lead" was probably the mastermind behind everything herself. So the queen expected them to go meet her. Nothing good could come out of it, but Hana had come first in the last night. Now, this could be addressed, as the little sister got some spirit back.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 22, 2015, 07:13:35 PM: 'O-oh, hmmm, sure I guess.' She didn't really have much experience with coffee, but if this butler was apparently great, it couldn't harm her, right. When asked how she'd like her coffee, she had no answer though. She looked helplessly at Haruka, who just shrugged. 'I guess I'll have it how you usually do it' she answered. Waiting in anticipation, she wondered how it'd taste.

She had a sip. Just a small one. Even once she had taken the sip, she managed to not spit it out. 'W-well, it certainly has a unique taste' she said. 'Extremely bitter' she added to herself. 'How do people drink this?' She stared at Haruka with newfound respect, this man must have truly worked hard to be able to take a drink like this, and just casually sip it. In the end though, she could only manage 1 small sip. Despite feeling bad for the butler, it was just way too bitter.

(Haruka +1 AP)
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 22, 2015, 07:17:03 PM: Seph sat on the table, still shaking. "He...he wanted to get information about what's been happening to him...there's an image and a voice that's been plaguing him since last night that he refused to tell me about. She managed to make him..." He swallowed.

"She managed to make him believe that these losses were for the better of Cray. The fact that people are still so happy without knowing anything about what's going on, or how they're being fooled...it's a world without pain, except here, in this house." He shook his head, sounding like he was possibly about to cry.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 22, 2015, 07:25:37 PM: Hana sat down at the dining room table, her eyes somewhat closed. She was practically still half-asleep.

"Uhhhhh huh... I'll have eggs... also where's Mi-hime I thought I heard her..."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 22, 2015, 07:25:54 PM: Of course.

"Ignorance is a bliss, so for everyone else who weren't connected to Cray like the people in this house, she isn't wrong", Yukino accept this fact. For a majority of the world, Vanguard was simply a game and nothing more. For the Espoirs, Vanguard was a connection and a destiny. Despite how important they believed themselves to be, they did not make up the entirety of humanity's point of view. People got worthy exchanges for their previous clans, so of course they'd be happy.

"Satoshi probably understood this", she continued. "That, or this mysterious voice you mentioned helped drill it into his mind."

The thing is, what could Yukino even do about it? Holding her chin in thought, what was there to do about it? The woman could go find the two, and then what? Yell at Satoshi and Neu, despite the fact that Yugure agreed she had a point for everyone not connected to the Espoir? Satoshi didn't even have to keep suffering like a sidekick if he wanted, seeing as he must've felt useless watching them all fall to Neu's arrival.

Hopelessness born from an expected failure arose, and she choked.

There wasn't anything in her power that could fix this at the time.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 22, 2015, 07:27:55 PM: Haruka noticed Miyuki's intolerance to the black coffee, immediately.

"Eer, you can have it with sugar you know?" Haruka laughed a little at Miyuki's reaction and requested sugar cubes.

"Its more of a pick-me up to be fair. I don't drink it solely for the taste." Haruka remarks, as he takes another gulp.

"Oh, sleep well?" Haruka was actually fond of chatting with Miyuki. It was a lot more casual than most conversations he had these days.

Miyuki +1 AP

As he asked, the little princess makes her entrance to the kitchen, sleepy-eyed as hell.

Sheesh, she's more tired than me. Probably.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 22, 2015, 07:29:50 PM: "Yugure, please..." Seph shook his head. "Satoshi though of his cards as his friends for so long. It's this misguidedness that comes from interacting with people that makes things so difficult. He keeps getting lost in people because he wants to understand how people are all so different..."

He stared in her eyes, tears forming in his own. "Come on! You don't find him and Haruka just 'sidekicks,' do you? That's not the Yugure I watched grow over the shoulder of the Royal Guard! That's not the Snow Flower he so lovingly calls you! You changed!" He bit his lip. "What's to say Neu can't change, either?!"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 22, 2015, 07:40:27 PM: "What makes you think I can make her change as I am?!" Yugure screamed. Of course she didn't think of them as just sidekicks, but what could she do about it or anything right now? The queen accepted her powerlessness, as she was bested twice by this villain who stole away the warring Paladins and Dragons. Gritting her teeth, she went on to speak: "Satoshi still has the cards he thinks of as friends."

Jealousy controlled her tone. She lost her clans, but he didn't. It wasn't his fault, of course, but the queen had a hard time feeling sympathy for that statement when Satoshi lost absolutely nothing.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 22, 2015, 07:53:06 PM: The scream echoes through the halls. Haruka stands up walks out into the hallway to see Yukino, yelling at, what seems to be air.

Lost friends.

Haruka showed up in time to hear her remark of Satoshi still having his clan. The tones of anger brewing in her words caught him off guard for sure.

"Yukino..." Haruka called out lightly to her.

"What's going on?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 22, 2015, 07:57:52 PM: Seph's face softened. While he was pained, he could see Yugure was struggling with problems herself, particularly the failure that had so driven her over the edge before, back when Jellal had crushed her with Phantom Blaster Overlord. She wasn't managing well without Ahmes and Yunos and Alfred...all of them had been particularly close, and it wasn't really his place, as the Guardian Dragon of Neo Nectar, to chastise her for feeling the way that she did.

But his thoughts changed to Ezel, which made him sigh and speak once more:

"You're right. He does still have the cards he thinks of as friends. But let me ask you, Chosen Sword: do you not feel the same of Gold Paladin, the remnants of Royal and Shadow Paladin alike to find the Beast Armors and free those friends you love?" He gave a slight smile. "I can't say I speak for Ezel or Garmore, but from as far as I know they fight on your behalf, every day, trying to get things back to the way they were. Vortimer, too, on behalf of Haruka. Vermilion, on behalf of his champion. Even Maelstrom longs for a battlefield where Aqua Force can contest the justice of the Paladins or the fierce flames of the Kagero. Cray itself is determined to undo the seals, but they still need their champions. All of them."

He materialized more realistically and lightly touched her shoulder, attempting to console. "I know you don't believe this, but right now, I understand your losses very strongly. I don't want to lose Satoshi any more than you wanted to lose Ahmes or Yunos. But to say that these Gold Paladins can't be your friends...isn't that acting a bit like the one you want to stop?" He stroked that shoulder with a nod. "You're different from Neu Edelweiss. You know you are. You know Cray matters. You, Hana, Haruka, Jellal...and I know Satoshi does as well. He's just...confused. He needs his leader to guide him."

Seph pat her shoulder and turned to Haruka with a slightly awkward wave. "Hi. Didn't see you there. Satoshi's in trouble because of Neu Edelweiss. As far as I know, they're still at the amusement park. But I don't really know if Yugure's in the shape to make her case yet..." He scratched his chin and raised an eyebrow. "Do you think you could perhaps run out and have a look, Sera---" Seph coughed, making sure he didn't finish the name to hurt Haruka as he accidentally had before by telling Yugure. "I mean, Haruka?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 22, 2015, 08:12:33 PM: Yugure scowled, not a single person would ever be able to understand how she felt right now. Seeing Haruka show up took her attention from Seph. "Speaking with Satoshi's Guardian Dragon", the irate queen responded, disdain obvious. She was down on her luck, losing Royal and Shadow. Even so, the bonds she had with Gold Paladin were rising to be on equal terms that she had with the former two. Ezel and Garmore never got on her for this attitude, as the lost is still devastating. That, and they had warming up to her to do themselves, and vice versa.

"I never said they can't by my friends, nor did I say they're not. But I still lost friends, was my point."

Again, she wasn't given too much choice her. Always a duty to fulfill, and she wasn't looking forward to meeting Neu again.

"I'll go find him. He needs me to change his mind", the woman caved in, deciding to go. Quickly rushing to get the Gold Paladin deck before venturing out.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 22, 2015, 08:20:16 PM: The rage sent shivers down his spine. Haruka was most definitely unsure of what to say at this point, but that was normal for him.

"I see." Haruka made notice of Seph and sort of just stared at the two for a moment.

What do I say? I can't...

She had made her choice as she stormed off, seemingly to catch up with Satoshi and help him. His instincts said to follow her, but something inside of him told him to stop.

His chest began to hurt, as per usual now. He hung his head down, standing in the hallway.

From the pit of his stomach ranged guilt and confusion, and the subtle lack of drive. He felt useless.

He was useless, as of now.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 22, 2015, 08:23:53 PM: "Yugure, please don't trouble yourself if---"

Too late. She was already out the door. All that was left was Seph looking at a very distraught Haruka. Similar problems, maybe?

He touched a hand to his shoulder. "They need you, too. You're the glue that stick the two of them together, and right now, I have a feeling that's going to be more than necessary to make things right." He smiled. "That sounds like something Dragonic Overlord would want of his Vanguard."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 22, 2015, 08:28:54 PM: Haruka's eyes glazed over. He heard the words but they sort of passed over.

The Seraphim had a grip on Haruka's heart and mind now. All he could do was nod and break a weak smile, despite paranoia coating Haruka's conscious. He looked up, hands in pockets and simply nodded, as to get Seph off of his back.

"When I get around to it." Were the Seraphim's words.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 22, 2015, 09:17:02 PM: Miyuki looked slightly doubtfully at the sugar, but mixed it into the coffee anyway. She had another sip, then realised it needed more sugar. After adding more sugar it became drinkable. 'I'm not sure if this is the right way to drink coffee, but oh well, it's actually quite nice now.'

After finishing the coffee, she looked around. Haruka was nowhere to be soon. 'Wait, what. I thought he was right here.' Confused, she looked at the butler, who simply said that Haruka had left a bit ago, whilst she was messing around with the sugar. 'Well whatever'. Thanking the butler for the coffee, she walked out and wondered around a bit more. Maybe the dining room would have people in it? With this thought in mind, she headed there, vagually remembering the location from last time. She made it this time, and entered to have a look.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 22, 2015, 09:27:32 PM: Hana had finished brunch awhile back, eggs. Then she returned to her room and had a meet up with Cray's council. Dinner time! Hana ate eggs for dinner. She had just finished, now she see's Mi-hime entering the dining room.

"Hello Mi-hime." She said her usually greeting, just lacking the usual enthusiasm.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 22, 2015, 09:40:31 PM: She noticed Hana sitting in the dining room. She moved over, and sat next to her. Noticing that she seemed down, she thought of what to do. 'Well, let's just be straight-forward about this'.

'Hii Hana' she said brightly, trying to dispel the slightly moody atmosphere. 'Are you feeling better? Sorry I couldn't be of more help yesterday'. She hoped that this would work, otherwise this could end badly. She could tell that Hana had quite obviously not fully recovered, she just needed to see how she'd respond in order to help her. 'Can I do anything for you?'
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 22, 2015, 09:57:54 PM: Mi-hime was sitting next to her again, whoau.

Hana really didn't think of anything that could come to mind, but then again she remembered that she hasn't been keeping up with her Cardfighting and that can't be as a national champion, she had to keep herself in good shape. A bunch of games just to bond with her Angel Feather deck doesn't sound bad either...

"Hey Mi-hime we should do a bunch of games later, also invite Yukinee and the others if possible..."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 22, 2015, 10:04:59 PM: Miyuki thought about it, and nodded. Yes it seemed like a good idea, everyone seemed down, this might be a good way to cheer them up. She was still worried however, that actively cardfighting would just flood Hana with memories of Bermuda Triangle. Well whatever, if Hana wanted to do this, then she'd help. That seemed to be all she could do right now.

'Of course we can Hana~ But first', she said, her stomach growling, 'can I have something to eat? I kind of only had coffee today and nothing else'. She laughed, keeping her voice bright and upbeat.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 22, 2015, 10:11:34 PM: Hana called over a servant to fetch Mi-Hime a meal. Miyuki's upbeat personality and overall cuteness made Hana feel better. Miyuki may as well be a Bermuda Triangle unit, she was a real idol through and through. Speaking of fetch, there was something that could never go wrong in doing while waiting for dinner. A servant was immediately ordered to fetch the dog.

"Woof." Yes it is Hana's Labrador, a fountain of eternal happiness.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 22, 2015, 10:25:27 PM: Thanking both Hana and the servant for the meal she started to eat. She noticed Hana call her dog, a Labrador over, and smiled. Hana was obviously trying her best to not feel down. She continued to eat, watching Hana play with her dog. She wondered where Haruka and the others were as well, he had just vanished, and she hadn't seen Yukino since they had returned from the weird shop.

When she thought of the weird shop, her mood darkened slightly. She still hadn't gotten her feelings straight with what had happened there. However, that wasn't important right now. She could do that once Hana was better. As long as she could cope until then, it'd be fine. She forcefully lightened her mood, by concentrating on her meal, and enjoying it. She kept that train of thought up until she finished her meal.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 22, 2015, 10:44:49 PM: "Woof!" Hana yelled out.
"WOOF!!" The puppy answered back.

She placed her on the floor and let her play, running accross the living room. Hana turned to look over at Mi-Hime still eating. She wanted to check up on her as well. Of course yesterday she really was just making things worse by worrying, but now Hana was at least somewhat able to help. "Mi-Hime you're doing fine right? Not getting a fever or anything?...do you good grades?... hows your foot?" She asked whatever she could, even some jokingly just to maki Mi-hime laugh and feel better as well.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 22, 2015, 10:58:28 PM: The walk home wasn't very long, but Haruka cherished a majority of the time on the way back. Once in awhile they would exchange small bits of information, nothing about the War of Liberation, but just small things that were going on.

But Haruka had two conflicting feelings. His heart was being torn and pushed by Sera. But at the same time, the wounds were healing at rapid speed by the comfort of Yukino and Satoshi being there. He didn't feel all too alone at the time.

The grip on his hand however, was firm, but caring. Warmth spread from his palm to all over. It was something Haruka would learn to cherish for a long time. That warmth he got from Yukino, whenever he was in shambles.

Haruka would've confessed right there and then, if he wasn't so physically fatigued and embarrassed and all. He would save that sort of moment later, should it ever arise.

"I wonder how Hana and Miyuki are... I sort of left them here without saying anything."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 22, 2015, 11:17:36 PM: The gate, then subsequently the doors to the Espoir Mansion opened with the triad's arrival. Yugure kept a firm grip on Haruka as internally promised, but then released it once they were inside. Surely, Seph was awaiting their return with Satoshi, and she wasn't going to have a part in their upcoming argument. Furious with the Guardian Dragon as it was, she started heading up the stairs to avoid the spirit entirely if possible.

"Yami..."

Yukino held her face in hand, starting to believe her growing depression was driving her to insanity. Yunos' voice echoed once again, but a quick scan of the area proved he was nowhere to be seen. She was about sick of these mind games, but had to live with them. It was either the taunting Blaster or the Rift nightmare.

Staying frozen, she felt incredibly sick at her choices. Almost puking at how both chained her mind to despair.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 22, 2015, 11:30:08 PM: Hana checked up on her as well. That was nice, although she was worried that she'd noticed something off about her. 'Yeah, I'm fine for now, thanks for asking'. Hana was speaking about random things now, in an effort to cheer her up. 'I'm not the one who needs this' she said to herself. Now that she was finished with her meal, she got up, and started to put her plate away.

'Oh yeah, have you seen Yukino or Haruka recently? I saw Haruka a bit earlier, but he vanished, and I haven't seen Yukino since'.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 22, 2015, 11:35:12 PM: "No I've been here the whole day," Hana replied to Mi-hime.

Hana had also been talking about a certain water crisis that was really hitting hard on Cray. It was bad, reaaaaaally bad. It was time for her dog to take a bath so she stood up and picked her up. She also turned to Mi-hime, and the Labrador started licking her face a little.

"Hey Mi-hime want to go with me to give this little puppy a bath?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 22, 2015, 11:42:35 PM: 'Sure, let's go give the puppy a bath', she replied. And a water crisis on Cray? For some reason that brought to mind Satoshi of the thirsty footstools, she didn't know why though. She had once lived ina country where there had been a long drought, due to her parents work. Resrictions were placed on how much water one could use, so perhaps she just naturally thought of the thirstiest person she apparently knew. There was probably some accident or something that had happened, with what was going on there. Or perhaps it was another of Hana's jokes, she had said some pretty random things whilst she had been eating.

She stood up, ready to follow Hana to where they needed to go. Hana had talked about wanting to cardfight, but they could do that after the puppy was cleaned. Plus it'd probably be nicer with Haruka and Yukino there, this way they'd have time to come back from wherever they were. 'Lead the way' she said, whilst having a quick look at the Labrador.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 22, 2015, 11:45:25 PM: Haruka travels through the front door as Yukino makes her way ahead. He's determined now. That trip had instilled a bit of hope in keeping everyone together. Haruka still trembled at the thought of being abandoned, but that didn't worry him anymore.

Of course he was now met with a decision.

Follow Yukino upstairs, and see how she's doing,

or travel around the house searching for Miyuki and presumably Hana. He wasn't too concerned about Satoshi at the moment, remembering he still needs to have a chat with Seph, so Haruka thinks for a moment.

"Hmm..." The easy way out would be leave Yukino alone with her thoughts and give her time to figure out an answer. He never knew when a good time to bother her was anyways. However he also felt as though maybe talking to Hana and Miyuki would be a great pick-me-up, considering their excited demeanor and ability to make anyone smile, despite the circumstances.

With a deep sigh, Haruka made his decision.

Time to go bug the Queen. That was what Haruka felt he was doing.

With a couple steps up, Haruka notices Yukino is in some sort of pain. She's holding her face in her hand, her face was warped and upset. Haruka's cause for concern was well-warranted, as he rushes up stairs to the queen.

"Yukino, hey, what's going on? Are you okay?" He says, resting a hand on her shoulder.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 22, 2015, 11:46:30 PM: Once they reached the restroom, there were a bunch of workers already there and ready to give the dog a bath. Hana handed it to one of them. After that, they gave each other a mutual bow and the worker went off. Hana actually has yet to learn how to give the dog a bath, but she plans to in the later future. For now she shall wait for it as the workers give it a good cleaning.

"Things really have been weird lately huh, but I swear I'll bring things back to the way they were!"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 22, 2015, 11:59:18 PM: After following Hana to the restroom, she noticed workers in there. 'Figures that Hana hasn't washed a dog before' she thought. So instead they sat down and talked for a bit whilst the dog got cleaned. Hana seemed to have at least slightly recovered, which was good. They casually chatted, for what felt like the first time in ages. Although it had only been yesterday since they last did so, the last day had seemed to last a year.

At Hana's mention that things had been weird, she nodded. 'Yep, things sure are weird. But at least we know a bit more about what happened, so we can try to stop it.' Again she tried to speak brightly about it, refusing to let the topic drag down anyone's mood. 'Oh, by the sound of things, the puppy's been washed' she said, and indeed a worker was back, holding a clean dog.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 23, 2015, 12:03:44 AM: Hana hopped up and hugged the doge.

"Woof."

Now with the dog clean, and dinner done, Hana was set for the night. Tonight she just planned to relax and fight her heart out. The Angel Feathers have been feeling quite neglected lately, but at the same time, they understood why. Now Hana was ready for action once again, in order to save the Bermuda Triangle, she must be in tip top shape!

"Let's go Mi-hime," she said while holding the dog. At that time also, when Mi-hime and her would walk together, she planned to go and walk a little closer to her, and even lay her head on her shoulder, just because she was curious of what that feeling was from before.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 23, 2015, 12:17:34 AM: Yukino was sweating some, breathing a bit heavily. She sat on the stairs, trying to catch her breath while holding her stomach. The realization hit her: the was no escape. That made the queen incredibly nauseous, knowing that there was no way out until the blasters returned, and all the clans were back together on Cray. Initially, a response to Haruka wasn't given, trying to calm down over this revelation. Honestly, all she wanted to do was cry. Neu was too strong for this to end immediately, so she was forced to suffer through this grueling War of Liberator until one of them was strong enough to bite back. While Yugure wants it to be herself, it wouldn't be in the state she's in.

"I'm... okay", finally breathing normally, she got back on her feet.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 23, 2015, 12:25:56 AM: I'm okay? Try again, sweetheart. That wasn't anything close to okay.

"That wasn't okay. Yukino, you're obviously in bad shape and need to rest up. You probably don't wanna get lectured by me right about now..." Haruka was actually mostly unable to do anything close to a lecture. His speeches were rather poor and words didn't help. All he could really do was console her and he wasn't sure if that was going to help.

A small smirk appeared across his face.

He walked up to Yukino, placing a hand on her face. A caress, like before. But this was different. It wasn't for the one sole reason it had been for before. It was to signify comfort before, but this time, it was a let-know.

"I'm here too, you know. Maybe it's not my place to judge but," Haruka wanted to make his message clear, maintaining eye contact with her, "I want to fight whatever battle you're facing with you. That's what friends are for-" Haruka stopped for a moment.

Friends was the word he had used, but he wanted to say something else.

"That's what I'm here for, after all." Haruka corrected himself. He was wholly unsure what it would take to fix this, or what it would take for Yukino's shell to come down.

I hope Miyuki is having more luck with Hana. This thought lingered for just a bit in his head. But his attention immediately flipped back to Yukino. His words weren't great, but with enough courage he felt his actions spoke enough for them.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 23, 2015, 12:28:50 AM: 'Yes, let's go'. Miyuki had originally planned to follow Hana to wherever they were going, however Hana slowed down, walking right next to her. That was fine though. 'I guess we're going to her room then' she thought. 'I know the way there, and Hana did want to play vanguard'. Before she could ask however, Hana lay her head on Miyuki's shouder.

'E-er, Hana?' she questioned. 'This makes it harder to walk, are you alright?' Despite her questions, she could feel her heart speed up, and she could feel herself blushing. 'Must be all the things that have happened today' she thought, althought she did wonder why she was blushing. Letting Hana's head stay on her shoulder, they continued to slowly walk through the mansion. Then she realised that she had forgot to say something.

'Hana? Where exactly are we going by the way?'
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 23, 2015, 12:34:35 AM: Yugure looked at him, wide eyed when his hand met her cheek again. The gaze of a sickly woman faced Haruka's eyes - a kind of look like a dying pet would give, looking for some kind of mercy. A quiet breath passed as she looked down, a near-silent chuckle. Lecture? This guy? The thought of this goofball fumbling through his words to lecture someone put a small smile on her face, but it quickly faded. Looking back up, another expression of gratitude was gifted to him.

"Thank you", the woman began, holding that hand. When he corrected himself from "friend", it made most of the nauseous feeling go away. "I'm... fine, really."

This wasn't a battle anyone could win, and she certainly didn't want to drag Haruka into it. The queen beamed at him to ensure she was at peace, even if she really wasn't.

His hand was squeezed, like it always was.

Haruka +2 Affinity
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 23, 2015, 12:41:10 AM: Neo had found himself back at Hana's mansion.

"I know everyone wasnt feeling well today.. but for some reason I felt like i needed to come here" Neo said to himself

So neo rang the doorbell and waited for the usual worker to come.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 23, 2015, 12:43:44 AM: Hana felt the feeling for sure. It was nice and warm. Her face felt weird though, but this was definitely a really nice moment. She lifted her head from Mi-hime's shoulder.

"Well, Mi-hime, we're going to use dad-san's fight room tonight."

It was at one of the hidden corners of the house, hard to find, but once one was at that location, it was hard to miss. It had a large wooden door, so heavy that Hana had to call a team of ten workers to get one door to even budge. Usually dad-san opens the two doors by himself, sometimes breaking it because it's not heavy enough to support him. The inside of the room was a large circular auditorium, with a center stage having four tables with a good amount of room in between each other so that two cardfights could happen at once. This site was exactly like the fight stadium that Hana fought in during the national tournament.

"This is where Dad-san and his friends used to train their fighting skills, he said we should use it tonight. It has a working holographic system and everything." Hana went to a corner and turned on the computer that was there, the recessed lighting scattered across the rest of the room flickered on, presenting the grand fighting stage deep within the Espoir Mansion.

"Right, I should invite everyone."

She sent out a group text to Yukinee, Yukinee's bf, New Thirst-kun, Jello, DogeKaiser, Iguana-chan, Screamo-kun.
Invitation to have a night of fun fights over at dad-san's holographic cardfight room! It'll be fun, just ask the workers to lead you there! Also dad-san won't be there its ok Yukinee's bf. <3 ~ BELLA
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 23, 2015, 12:45:30 AM: While waiting at the front door, Neo got a text from Hana saying to come to her house to train and practice.

Neo then texted back "Im in front of your house" then waited to be let in
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 23, 2015, 12:47:59 AM: Haruka sighed, smiling back.

"Fine? Ah..." Haruka thought he knew Yukino decently well enough by now to know what she had meant. He definitely needed to worry a little less about her. She was strong-willed and was a brave, powerful woman.

That's what attracted me to her I suppose.

He lets his hand remain for a moment. Remembering the first time he had done it, she let out what seemed like a small gasp. Maybe this was something she was particularly fond of?

Of course she is, stupid! She would have told you to get off by now!

So instead, he nods and begins to speak. This was probably the best he could do now.

"You're welcome, Yuki. I'll keep doing me then." Assuring he wasn't going to change was probably the best he could do, leaving her to fight her battles without the worry of Haruka being somebody different by the end of them. With his free hand, he takes her hand that was left at her side, and brings it to his lips. With a light kiss, he looks up.

"Your Majesty." He starts to chuckle a little, remembering the days he only referred to her as the Ice Queen, but he saw her as something different now.

However right on command, a text buzzes his cell phone. He steps back a moment, letting her kissed hand down, and taking out his cell phone. "Holographic Cardfight room?" He looks at Yukino, expecting some sort of answer to Hana's message.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 23, 2015, 01:02:24 AM: Yukino managed to keep things bottled up while feeling better in the process. Haruka made it clear he'll always be Haruka - the boy she was falling in love with. That reassurance woke her up and stopped Yunos' voice from returning... no, his presence ceased the latter. Staying up to stay away from that nightmare and shutting out a tormenting, hollow memory would help her last. Though, the queen was caught off guard by Haruka kissing his hand. Twice now have those lips met her skin, but never her own lips. That wasn't fair, they began longing for his. A giggle at "your majesty", remembering the days of being a... egocentric queen. Not the most pleasant of memories, but she did meet her two friends while like that.

... No, she had enough.

Yugure almost started to lean forward before her phone vibrated in sync with his. Reading the message, she sighed. A night of games could probably help her out some, but she highly doubted it. Yet, if it kept Hana in a good mood, it'd be worth it.

Standing up, she spoke: "Follow me, I know where she's talking about."

Another text was sent to a servant, stating to allow Neo inside if he arrived. And since he was already here, he was let in.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 23, 2015, 01:08:39 AM: Haruka noticed Yukino had moved forward a little before the text had been sent out.

What was that about?

"You, sir, My Vanguard, are denser than osmium."

Haruka dismissed Vortimer's light comment and followed Yukino's heels. "Don't tell me you guys actually have a holographic fight area..." Haruka was pretty easily amazed by things, meaning this would get added to the list very quickly if it's what he imagined it is what he thought it was.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 23, 2015, 01:15:10 AM: "Father had to get that buff somehow", Yukino replied. "It doubles as a gym and a fighting room. He and a bunch of work buddies, along with mother used to stay in there for longer than believed humanly possible to train."

You know, the Espoir adults were probably classified freaks of nature.

The queen opened the door to the holographic chamber as soon as they got to it.

Meanwhile, Lop Ear and Dindrane were gossiping with each other. Like how Marron and Akane would. ... The only difference is that Pellinore - a higher up - joined in their childish shenanigans. Garmore and Ezel quickly scolded them for acting like giddy teenagers.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 23, 2015, 01:26:50 AM: Neo was allowed in the mansion by one of the workers

"Thank you" Neo said

He walked up all the stairs to find Hana
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 23, 2015, 01:37:31 AM: No. Way.

"So this is in this house too, huh?"

Haruka finds himself staring in awe at everything in the room. He's unable to take it all in at one time so he stands sort of frozen in the room.

"This is crazy, Yuki." He cranes his neck to get a look at all the fight tables. Well polished and lit-up. But what did they mean by holographic exactly? The fighter's became holographic or the units...?

"That was a dumb question. It makes you able to see us."

Hoh. Well that's cool, too.

Haruka's stupid grin brightens. He was a bit too excited for tonight.

"Get me on that Vanguard Circle and we'll take the field by storm. Got it?"

Haruka nods.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 23, 2015, 01:47:34 AM: Hana is talking to a worker, ordering him to fetch a few drinks and snacks for the guests who come. She then holds her deck in excitement. Angel Feather, in this version of the world, a world where Bermuda Triangle never existed, she has been plying this deck forever, so she should love this deck as much as she did Bermuda Triangle right? She looks at Nociel, somewhat apologetic of how she has been treating the Angel Feathers, as temporary replacements to the Bermuda Triangle clan.

"Nociel I've been wanting to say lately that I-..." She began to speak but was interrupted.
"Hana we understand how you've felt. We want to become close to you too, but we also tried to keep our distance because we feared that you weren't ready to accept as yet or that you'd think that we would take Bermuda Triangle's place in your heart." Nociel explained to her.
"R-Right.... but, I have a place for both of you guys... N-Nociel-chan...." Hana said under her breath.
"I see... Hana-chan...." The pink haired trash also uttered silently.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Lance Korilum on August 23, 2015, 01:49:33 AM: Cero had received an invitation to the mansion of his rival from someone named 'Bella.' After learning where said mansion was (It was the only mansion around so it was kind of difficult to not notice), Cero entered. In his usual shouting manner, Cero demanded that the workers lead him to the 'holographic cardfight room' so he could meet his rival in combat once again. The workers were initially confused by this insane man who just walked up and started shouting at them, to which Cero responded, "I am Cero Kirguis, Europe's King of Vanguard and rival to Yukino Espoir!"

With this information, the workers asked, "Sir, are you sure you don't need to go to a hospital?" The same question. Again. The question that people seem to ask everywhere he goes. It's returned.

With every bit of air in his lungs, Cero screamed at the workers, "I DON'T NEED A HOSPITAL, I'M HERE TO FIGHT MY RIVAL!!! NOW LET ME IN BEFORE I SMASH YOUR HEADS TOGETHER AND WALK IN MYSELF!!!!!!" This response was not the most elegant of Cero's words, but it seemed to work. The workers lead him to the cardfight room, but not before phoning in that a 'clinically insane foreigner' had just attempted a break-in.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 23, 2015, 01:55:45 AM: The ear-splitting roars of a new guest echoed throughout the house. Dad Espoir was real sick of these boys entering, but he won't give a damn if Cero doesn't intend to harm his little girls. ... Just in case, he told the servants to be on watch, and to use deadly force if required. The queen nearly went deaf hearing Europe's king downstairs. She wanted to be glad he was back in Japan, but she was too sad and her ears were still ringing.

She greeted Hana and Miyuki, but heard herself speak in a muffled tone.

Shaking her head, she said "We're here" and was able to hear it.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 23, 2015, 02:05:07 AM: "Hana-chan! Hana-chan! Everyone we can now be friends with Hana-chan!~!" Nociel chants happily.

Hana smiles seeing that her sister has arrived. She nods and greets her, "hello nee-san." Next up, Hana hears the screaming coming from downstairs, perhaps a burglar, but no she knew that yelling. It was Screamo-kun, who had returned from Europe, his mental condition seemingly having gotten worse. With the deepest of concerns, she called her father and asked if the workers could be equipped with tranquilizer guns for their new visitor. Dad-san was actually already ahead of her. This was, of course, not to Hana's surprise as she expected no less from dad-san!

The tables are prepped, the first two to fight may begin at any time. Hana allows a bit more time for visitors to make their way up.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Lance Korilum on August 23, 2015, 02:07:08 AM: Cero looked around the room, and when he heard Yukino, he marched over to her and slammed his deck on the nearest fight table. He pointed at her and continued his shouting, "I'm here for a rematch! I've surpassed the limits I had when we last fought, and I'll prove it to you here!" Cero's eyes glared with the intensity of lightning at his rival, the rival he had abandoned his old deck to surpass. Cero couldn't remember exactly what deck he was using before, knowing only that he had decided that he had lacked enough of a connection to it to become truly powerful. Now, he had found a clan he felt connected to and was ready to defeat the woman who had defeated him so many times.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: NeoBuster on August 23, 2015, 02:11:16 AM: Neo made it to the top floor eager to cardfight the different fighters that were coming.

He then noticed a person who had challeged Yukino. Neo took a seat and started watching the cardfight
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 23, 2015, 02:11:30 AM: Haruka didn't notice that anybody else had shown up besides the four in the house previously, due to his awestruck state. The screaming had totally gone over Haruka's head. He probably assumed Father Espoir had gotten angry or something and was just venting a little.

Until a slam on the fight table nearby suddenly made Haruka jump in the air. He saw a screaming man, challenging Yukino to a rematch. Who was he?

...

.....

.......

No way. The guy from the construction site. It's been months, where did he go!?

Haruka looked over at Yukino, hand on hip. "Well you have a challenger it seems."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 23, 2015, 02:30:00 AM: For some reason, she felt extremely tired for a second. Trying to shake her head of it, she noticed some of the people had arrived. She nodded to Yukino and Haruka, hoping that Yukino was feeling better. Even Cero the King was here, and he swiftly challenged Yukino to a fight. However, Yukino didn't seem to be quite ready for a fight just then.

'Hmm Hana, want to have a fight?' she asked, partly to keep Hana entertained, and partly to buy some time for Yukino by allowing a bit of a show before her fight.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 23, 2015, 03:15:33 AM: The fight had ended with Hana as the victor this time around. They both healed three times, got a draw trigger whenever one got a draw trigger, and got the same amount of triple triggers with the fight ending in a double critical from Hana. The fight was close and quite intense because of how things went and Hana enjoyed every moment of it. Nociel sustained lots of injuries, the grade 1 at least, because the grade 2 never actually came out to the rearguard circle.

After the game ended, Hana gave Mi-hime a hug and watched Yukinee's game against Cero.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 23, 2015, 03:19:16 AM: Yukino got the advantage, Superior Riding to Grade Three while Cero was stuck on his first ride. Things were looking up, except no Grade One ever came to the queen except Mark. The fight carried on as Cero summoned his new avatar: Dragonic Kaiser Vermillion. Neo had this, but she never personally fought with it. The image it provided was overwhelming, sweeping her entire front row. Garmore, who had desired to rekindle any sort of recollection of the bonds he had with the king, was ridden. Letting loose a reminiscent howl of his Limit Break, he fought Cero with his own passion. It wasn't enough, but he feels that his emotions reached. A selfish request just to meet his fiery spirit again... He thanked Yugure.

Gold Paladin +10 Affinity

In the midst of the fight, Yunos' voice rang out again. Yugure's copies of Viviane... morphed into him. They became Blaster Dark Spirit, the Avatar of Resolution who solidified himself into the fray with Gold Paladin. A complete shock to everyone, the queen included. The queen synchronized with him again, but his power was incredibly weak. This outreach of the void could do nothing.

Yugure blamed it on her mind playing tricks on her. The joy of succeeding wasn't hers to have in the first place, so it would be impossible for a happy reunion.

Blaster Dark, unable to fathom what happened to her other than this sudden wave of surrender, was blown away by Vermillion's Limit Break. The fight ended in Cero's favor.

A congratulatory statement was given: "Looks like you finally surpassed me, Cero".

Yugure went over to a chair to sit down, becoming quiet.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 23, 2015, 03:27:05 AM: Satoshi had been locked in a guest room with Seph to resolve what was clearly a misunderstanding, but most of his time was spent laying on a couch, turned away. Things had startled to settle in based on the atmosphere and Seph's berating of him.

He had fraternized with the enemy. He had gone out of his way to try and get answers, and realistically? Other than remembering Vanguard should be fun, even with the importance of Cray at stake, he got nothing about the voice or the figure Neu had been with. She had dodged his questions, avoiding giving him any sort of idea to share with the group. Even the text he had received back from her was in English, saying she couldn't read Japanese. He couldn't communicate with her except in person, unless he got a translator. He remembered to ask a servant about that in the back of his mind.

Seph sighed. He had been trying for hours to make it clear that his champion had made a mistake. Something was different; he had received word during Council with Hana that strange fluctuations were noticed in the Rift's power, as though something new was feeding it, no doubt the responsibility of Neu Edelweiss. Did he not get that?

"Even so...you need to help Yugure with her plight and not run off like this. She got very upset with me as though I didn't understand the losses she was going through."

"Of course you don't, you idiot." Satoshi snapped. "Nobody's allowed to understand the Espoirs no matter how hard they try. Their connections to Cray are stronger than anyone else's after all. How could it be that anyone could possibly understand the weight of destiny those two have to go through?" He stretched a bit, still staring into the couch. "That said, they're stubborn enough to go through it alone, or at least with those they actually care about."

Not actually realizing Haruka felt the same way, thoughts ran through Satoshi's mind about how Yukino had acted today. Her grief had made her act jealous of having Neo Nectars last through time. It's not like she was missing out on much; Neu had a point that people seemed to be fine with Gold Paladin and Narukami existing. In fact, the levels of power those two clans theoretically exerted was growing all the time as they collected the Armors, so what exactly was the Chosen Sword so angry and bitter about? She was going to get what she wanted, but she had to bond with what she had in the first place, as she did before, for her resolve to work itself out. It sounded cliche, but all the same...why get so envious of someone and frustrated that you put on an air of "I don't think of you as a friend worth having because of what you chose to do and you should reconsider your decisions to work around me."

It was an unfortunate way of thinking of things at the moment, but his judgment was clouded. The fact that Yugure was choosing to take the burden and let her emotions bottle up, leading her to be passive with people he thought she had cared about...it seemed so selfish, no matter if she thought his choices were, too. Everyone was fighting for the same reason, and it was really getting on his nerves that she would refuse to listen to that.

He heard noise from outside. Apparently Cero, one of the people who knocked him out of regionals, had shown up to fight Yukino. Everyone else was apparently having a good time, at least to somewhat lighten the mood. And those two, Snow Flower and Blazing Sun...even with him having Limit Break, they seemed to be the only two who understood one another and care about one another.

They didn't need him. They never did. All that stuff...

He punched the couch, coughing back some tears. "Just go away for a while, Seph, I need time alone."

Seph shook his head. "Alright, but it might not be for the best if you fester like this. I do need to think about how to possibly apologize to Yugure." He receded into Satoshi's deckbox as the owner just cried.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 23, 2015, 03:31:41 AM: Haruka stood there, somewhat dumbfounded by all the fights around him.

While the one between Hana and Miyuki was one filled with intensity, it ended happily anyways. Smiles around.

The fight between Yukino and Cero was totally different. It ended in one's domination of the other, breaking the other one down. Haruka leaned back, watching as the fights all came to a conclusion.

He noticed the Dragonic Kaiser Vermilion. It completely astounds Haruka for a second time, the first being with Neo awhile ago against Hana. It nearly broke Haruka just seeing it, reminding him of Dragonic Overlord. This kind of thing made him want to sit back and think for a moment. However he still wanted a fight before the night was over.

He sat next to Yukino, seeing her sit silently. He raised an eyebrow.

"Hey..."

He sits next to her, putting a hand on her head, messing up her hair. A sign of affection.

"What was that... in that fight? You seemed totally out of it." Haruka stared up, unable to really make good eye contact at the moment. He sort of just scratched his head, holding his deck.

"I was wondering if you'd fight but-" Haruka cut himself off short. He was asking a bit too much of the queen in her current state. "If you're ever up for it I mean." Haruka smiles, silently nodding.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 23, 2015, 03:40:04 AM: A muffled voice in the back of her head, that was still definitely Yunos, and it wasn't going away. It was starting to get on her nerves how God cursed her. Turning to see Haruka sit down, she listened to him speak. "Out of it" was putting matters lightly, the woman has no sense of passion anymore. Finding that irksome, teeth began grinding. Everyone else got to have it, why can't she get it back?! ... Stopping, she found it best to just keep quiet about it. Lest she wants to ruin everyone's good time or ruin Cero's victory that he was longing for.

"I can fight", Yugure responded to Haruka.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Lance Korilum on August 23, 2015, 03:40:51 AM: Although the fight was initially against him, with Yukino reaching Grade 3 while Cero was still on Grade 1, but the fight was quickly turned around. Yukino was unable to keep much of an offense, while Cero let out a relentless assault accompanied by trigger after trigger. Throughout the fight, Cero kept having images of the clans that had been sealed away, including his old deck, the Garmore and Snogals. After unveiling his new Avatar, Dragonic Kaiser Vermillion, Cero took the lead in the fight, and completely dominated the woman who was once his rival. At one point, she brought out Garmore, something done to remind him of the bond they once had that Cero had discarded, believing it wasn't strong enough to defeat his rival... It was almost nostalgic, seeing his old Avatar, the King of Beasts...

With the appearance of Blaster Dark Spirit, Cero was shocked. He remembered Shadow Paladin, and its wielder Jellal, the man he fought in the Semi-finals of Nationals. Cero was unsure why Yukino had this card, but it was of no matter to him. Victory was in his sights. When Cero's turn came, he wiped away what defenses Yukino had left, claiming victory over his rival...

"... Is this really all the strength you have?" Cero had stopped his shouting. This victory, the thing he had been searching for for so long, was empty. There was no excitement, no pleasure, no feeling of pride. There was nothing. "This isn't the fight I wanted. You've become weak." However, he remembered there was someone else who had defeated him on multiple occasions. Turning away from his fallen rival, he pointed at Hana. "Now I'll take my revenge for the humiliation I suffered in the finals!"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 23, 2015, 03:44:44 AM: An eventful fight with Hana ended slowly. They had each hit a ton of triggers, healing 3 times each. In the end, Hana had barely edged it out with a double critical. She walked away after a quick hug with Hana, happy. It's not like the result of the fight mattered to her, all she wanted to was make sure Hana was ok.

Another sudden wave of exhaustion swept over her, and she stumbled slightly. In the end, she leant against a wall near the tables, trying to hide how tired she felt. From far away it felt like another match had ended, but she just tried to make sure she stayed up. She felt like she didn't even have the energy to walk to a nearby chair. 'It's odd though' she thought. 'Why am I suddenly so tired? I guess the lack of decent sleep caught up to me?'.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Lance Korilum on August 23, 2015, 04:06:14 AM: Another complete and utter decimation. The fight was hardly even close, with Cero smashing his opponent to pieces. Hana fought back, and was able to take advantage of Angel Feather's defensive ability, but it was nothing against the absolute destructive power of Cero's Narukami. He retired her starter, and wiped away her field and hand. Although Cero didn't have much in the way of defense, he ended the game before it really mattered. He defeated the person who embarrassed him at Nationals, but it was another empty victory... There was no pride behind this one either, no excitement in the fight. Only complete domination of the game.

"I thought you people were stronger than this... Did I just become too powerful for you or did you all become weak in my time away?" Cero was angered, though still not shouting. He believed these two to be worthy rivals, and now could hardly believed they were ever strong enough to defeat him. Cero turned away from the embarrassments his rivals had become, and walked towards the exit, stopping only to wait for a response from either.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 23, 2015, 04:12:28 AM: Cero had certainly gotten stronger since nationals, that or Hana had to become much more better with Angel Feathers, though in his mind, it is no doubt that he remembered fighting Angel Feathers during the finals. Hana gave him the win, but with the hope of one day returning with Bermuda or becoming stronger with Angel Feather, she promised him another challenge someday, one that she would win for sure.

Mi-hime seems to be tired, stumbling around. Hana ran over to her and caught her, letting Mi-hime rest on her shoulder. She sat close to her, checking up on how she was feeling. "Mi-hime, you must be tired..." Hana said with a tender and caring tone, "you can rest on me for a bit while we watch..." Hana put her arms around Miyuki, supporting her weight, but also coming closer to Miyuki herself as well as she watched the ongoing game between her sister Yukinee and Yukinee's bf.

With that she saw Cero making his way to the exit. While he found a clan that was suitable for him, she and her sister had lost theirs. If he found them to be weak opponent's then glory to him in finding greater ones. She had no reason to stop him. She just wanted to support Mi-hime now, and just relax. The only competitive spirit within Hana was to bring back Bermuda Triangle for her and the sake of Mi-hime.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 23, 2015, 04:22:33 AM: Haruka had one intention for this game from the start.

"Hey, Yuki, can you do me a favor? Have fun."

From the beginning, Haruka wanted to make Yukino happy. He knew there was no way to make her forget the past, but if she could accept it and start striving towards taking down what was in front of her, he felt as though everything would move forward. The stasis that the group was in might end.

"Consider this a trip down memory lane." Haruka knew Yukino had trouble with Shadow Paladins and their methods of sacrifice, and Haruka's deck was exactly about that.

Haruka started the fight off perfectly from Turn 1, scoring the full ride chain and activating the skill off of each ride. He was hyped up to have a great hand, but this was more than about taking the game. He wanted to enjoy himself. With that, he dropped his competitive attitude and switched gears. Pet names came out, and jokes about the poorly timed heal triggers he scored.

The fight went on, and Haruka found himself completely amazed by the Limit Breaks of Ezel and Garmore. Truly formidable leaders, indeed. However, Haruka had something else in store for Yukino.

"By sacrificing three of my own rear guards, My Vanguard stands back up!" Yukino's reaction to this wasn't exactly a pleasant one. But he felt if she could understand that the remnants of the Shadow Paladins were still around, just in another form, she would understand she is not alone with the Gold Paladins. A turn or so passed after the first Limit Break of Spectral Duke Dragon, and Yukino had little to no hand. Haruka ended the battle on Chromejailer's attack.

"Hey, Yuki, did you have fun?" Haruka was pressed about this. Really pressed about this. He felt that every bit of concern was warranted, whether or not Yukino acknowledged it.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 23, 2015, 04:24:29 AM: Managing to keep herself upright, time passed by. Then she felt Hana next to her, supporting her. She sighed, wishing she'd managed to hide it from her. The last thing she wanted to do was bother her. She tried to get up, but Hana had put her arms around her. Sighing again inwardly, she stayed like that.

'I'll be fine any minute, just need a tiny bit to rest' she tried to reassure Hana, making it clear that she was fine. With that said, she rested herself against Hana again, relaxing her tired body. 'I guess I might have pushed myself slightly too hard. I probably didn't notice it because I was trying to keep myself positive'. In the distance, she could vagually hear more commotion, but it didn't matter right now. It registered to her briefly that Haruka must be fighting Yukino, and wished them a fun fight before she drifted closer to dozing off. Her sense of time vanished again, being only aware of Hana next to her, and how tired she felt.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 23, 2015, 04:28:01 AM: Gold Paladin vs Gold Paladin - Red Lion Corps and White Hare Corps against the Black Chain forces led by the heavenly child Vortimer. Yukino found herself unable to Superior Ride, and Kryph was starting to become more of a setback than desired when it failed to go off. It might be time to let it go and try Spring Breeze Messenger like Tsubasa. ... Or maybe it was just another stroke of horrible luck. Yugure believed riding a Perfect Guard was actually one of the best possible Rides to save your boosters, but maybe that logic was half-baked. Seeing Haruka Superior Call over and over was something she yearned to do with such powerful succession, even if it required the Ride Chain going off smoothly.

Spectral Duke Dragon was a far cry from Dragonic Overlord, but he sported power that vastly rivaled it. In fact, some of the White Hare squad members feared the two meeting, as Vortimer and Overlord could probably tear up an entire mountain range as it is. Ezel's Limit Breaks were starting to fall short, netting Triggers against Cero, and now a Perfect Guard against Haruka. Yugure just went with it, as it was always a gamble anyway. Still, nothing would be enough, and she knew that from the start. Ride Chains were incredibly advantageous when they went off, and Vortimer's got even more than normally bargained for. Haruka's hand, field, and damage were all outscaling her. Defeat was accepted by her second turn.

Finally, Duke's Limit Break was unleashed. A horrifying slaughter of three rearguards to stand again after battle. Even if it wasn't for the sake of a tyrant's advance, but rather, for Haruka's motto... It still shook the soul of the girl, triggering awful memories of every time Phantom Blaster Dragon used his skill.

Haruka asked if she had fun.

... She really didn't, but she didn't want to stomp all over his efforts. The queen vocalized that the game was definitely fun, and she was enjoying herself as he wanted.

Blaster Dark's voice tried to echo again, but she pushed it out. It wasn't real - it was a lie. Yunos wasn't a lie, and he still kept trying to break through to her. That raging jealousy wouldn't let him go back to his deep sleep.

At the very least, she needed a new pet name for her crush. He called her sweetheart, she jokingly called him tiger. Maybe Haru? But then it'd just be a mess when addressing Haruka and Haruki.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Lance Korilum on August 23, 2015, 04:34:03 AM: Deciding he wouldn't get an answer, Cero began to exit the mansion, shouting back to Yukino, "You say you can talk to your cards, right? Tell Garmore... I'm sorry... For failing him." With that, Cero left the mansion, without answers, and without any real sense of victory. There was no reason for him to ever return here, and he had no more reason to fight those he once called rivals.

Hana AP -2
Yukino AP -2
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 23, 2015, 04:37:26 AM: Still supporting Mi-hime's weight on her, she felt a strange sensation in her head again... "U-um..." She looked around a little. Mi-hime seemed to be drifting closer and closer to sleep. She ordered workers to fetch two things, a stack of cards in her closet, and a blanket and pillow from her room.

By the time her sister's fight had ended against Yukinee's bf, the workers had arrived with what was needed. As much as Hana wanted to stay with Mi-hime like this(like she rlly rlly wanted to stay like this), she had to go fight her sister, for the sake of both of them feeling more comfort. She placed a pillow where she was and let Mi-hime lightly land on it. She then took the blanket and spread it over her. She looked at her face tenderly and let out a smile unknowingly. She stood up and took the deck from the worker.

Hana felt it, and tried to sense its voice.
*rabbit noises*
Dandy.

She then walked up to the table across from her sister. "Yukinee, your next opponent is me~!"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 23, 2015, 04:40:32 AM: "Oh... Alright", Yukino accepted Hana's challenge.

"Sorry... you failed me... huh..." Garmore didn't understand his former user's feelings, did his not reach after all...? Or maybe it was remorse for not having weld them properly. "You... didn't fail."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 23, 2015, 04:47:36 AM: Some time had passed and Satoshi had gotten most of his tears out. It occurred to him that this sort of pain was probably similar, though maybe not as intense, to what a lot of the others were feeling. So they were all mutually suffering together, even if that was maybe a bit on the depressing side of things. His protective side was trying to do the thing he promised Tomo, which was stand up for these people who really were getting better and in need of less protection on the time. Honestly, he just wanted to feel adequate to them at this point, and it had become increasingly hard to tell due to these tensions. Maybe with some time...

He sat up, looking through his cards. Seph had said something about the Rift becoming stronger, so there was likely a chance he needed to get better and keep at it. He definitely liked Muse as his avatar and what she did for his deck, despite the unfortunate circumstance that happened that day. Maybe he'd get a chance to play her a bit more tonight. Maybe.

He looked over at his phone. He wanted to send Yukino a text saying that things went over well and if she'd like, he'd be up for a fight, but...the more he thought about it, the more he wondered if that was really a good idea, given how pained she was each time something she remembered came back. Even though she still hadn't seen Muse, and he really wanted her to.

Oh well, maybe she or Haruka, or maybe even Hana, honestly, would come check on how things were going and he could talk things through and get another chance to play with his new love.

He decided he was instead going to do something once again a little risky and dial up Neu Edelweiss. She couldn't read Japanese, but she could hear and speak it rather well. It was cute to see a foreigner so devoted to engaging in Japanese culture.

He pushed "Call" on his phone and let it ring, dialing up Neu's cell.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 23, 2015, 05:23:56 AM: "Hi, Neu here, what's up?... Wait first who are you? Man this caller ID is terrible... Oh not in contact list." It was obvious that this call actually had just woken her up.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 23, 2015, 05:27:59 AM: "Hi, it's Satoshi. I'm sorry if I just woke you up, Neu." He blushed a little. "I was just calling to say that...well, I really did have a good time today. Hanging out with you was pretty fun, and I got a kick out of looking at the pictures on the way back home."

He scratched the back of his head. "I was wondering if maybe...y'know...you wanted to get lunch sometime, my treat? We can Cardfight and hang out some more. I hear the beach has a snack bar that opened up recently...."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 23, 2015, 05:31:48 AM: This probably wasn't Hana's intention, but her deck choice did a good job at kicking Yugure even harder while she was down. Cero's Royal Paladin deck that had been left behind two months ago, now standing as Gold Paladins as well. The woman didn't vocalize it, but this was painful. Even so, the envy she felt still called upon the Sword of Resolution. Still, the queen rejected it. This tormenting voice... even if it was real, she didn't have any real right to wield it. Yunos... began to figure out the problem. A problem that was exactly same to the one they had with Blaster Blade.

Still, with a smile and showering baby sister in big sister compliments, it was hidden. Something that uplifted her spirits a tad bit was how her own deck seemed to function better when it wasn't making a bet on a Superior Ride. Spring Breeze Messenger and Lop Ear Shooter proved to be early MVPs in getting the field filled. Ezel challenged the princess, uncaring for her status, as he was never the type to hold back. Most of the Red Lion corps could attest to that with... some bruises. Pellinore and Garmore faced him in battle, and the princess' reactions to Garmore being both checks in a Twin Drive... well.

They were unpleasant.

A familiar move made itself known to Gold Paladin's Vanguard, dual triggers and Superior Riding Pellinore for more Drive Checks. Hana even nearly broke a two-to-pass with her first check being a Critical.

That was the kind of power Yugure wanted.

Keeping a full field with Card Cycling, however, Ezel and company very well managed to hold the fort. In addition to that, Yugure rode Pellinore herself, and gave the princess a run for her money with his Limit Break. Unfortunately, they were unable to deal the finishing blow, as Hana healed out of it. This miracle trigger was only met with a compliment instead of disdain, however. Hana won the turn after that.

Hana stated that she felt much better, which was great. That was the queen's goal tonight: to make Hana feel good. Despite three straight losses tonight, that alone was enough, knowing there was nothing else to get. ... Then Hana went on to ask about the relationship between Haruka and herself. The queen responded by collecting her cards and taking a seat, not fueling more little sister questions.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 23, 2015, 05:38:08 AM: "A sixth heal?" Haruka whispered under his breath. He had been rooting Yukino on from the sidelines since the start of the fight. Halfway through, he noticed the sleeping Miyuki several feet off to the left. "Hoh?"

Haruka sort of scratched his head and lowered his voice when rooting, as to not stir her sleep anymore. However the fight didn't end in Yukino's favor, like he had wished. Hana sixth healed, and made a comeback attack, finshing Yukino off. This wasn't exactly what Haruka wanted to see, however he did pick up on something clear from the the first turn. No matter what, Yukino had never stopped rooting for her sister and showering her with compliments. It was astounding how her willpower stood. Haruka was proud of Yukino, or at least of what she was doing.

But in his heart, he was still worried about her. Yukino had been sent to the depths before, what was going to stop her from falling back there now? Earlier today she was brewing with rage. It seemed so contradictory to suddenly be so happy for everyone.

Something was terribly wrong. But Haruka couldn't possibly say for sure. And after all, he couldn't press her tonight. It wasn't his right to make Yukino spit anything out to him. He had to just stand by her until she was ready to reveal anything to them.

"Hey, Yukino, Hana, good job!" Haruka whispered out to them. He was intentionally trying to be quiet, due to a sleeping Miyuki.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 23, 2015, 05:44:00 AM: "Uh... sure," she paused for a moment and let out a light yawn, "As long as there's a cardfight involved, I'm good to go." She also looked at a list of things people usually pack while going to the beach. "Uh... make sure you also pack some extra water bottles and all that yeah"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 23, 2015, 05:47:14 AM: "Yeah, sure...there's also swimming, surfing, volleyball...a number of things we can do." He smiled. "I'll see you then?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 23, 2015, 05:51:58 AM: After the fight, Hana kept things to herself.
She moved the pillow let Mi-hime lean on her again, starting to doze off and enter a different world of her own.

Neu scratched the back of her head, "cardfighting first and foremost though... and sure I guess."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 23, 2015, 05:58:40 AM: There was probably something extra on Hana's mind. It was only a guess, though. Something to press her on later on in the afternoon, maybe. Things were settling down, so Yugure approached Haruka with a quiet tone.

"So about those bandages?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 23, 2015, 06:09:07 AM: Haruka's smile slowly but completely faded away. The mood swing hit.

"Rough morning..." Haruka turned away, staring at the fight tables. He was having a hard time describing how exactly it all happened. Everyone was either gone or asleep, so he felt it was okay to talk about it.

Fear was coating over Haruka again.

"A couple of days ago, I was gonna come over. Talk for a bit. Nothing particularly special but... I couldn't." Haruka turned back to Yukino. It was sort of unfair if he didn't tell her straight to her face. If she was concerned enough to ask, it must've been on her mind.

"So, I texted you. It wasn't a big deal at the time. But the walk home was horrendous, hahaha..." Haruka laughed a little, trailing off. He swallowed hard, his stomach already turning at the thought.

"And so I got home, and laid down. Ready to just sleep already. I didn't want to be awake anymore. But one thing kept ringing in my head over and over again. It just wouldn't stop."

"Seraphim."

Haruka's head was already whirring in pain, saying the name again. He really hated the name so, so much. He didn't know why, not really. But the name was pissing him off to a new standard.

"I didn't sleep. Not a bit. But as the name finally stopped ringing around six in the morning.... and then I heard a voice. It said one word to me and it, well, sent me out of control. My apartment is now blanketed in holes, broken furniture and damage loans." Haruka scratched his face. "So, yeah. That happened. Punching stuff hurts though, so I made sure to bandage up afterwards. I'm actually covered in cuts and damaged bones!"

This abruptly cheery outlook was pretty messed up. Sadly, Haruka found no other way to describe the event to Yukino without making it an even worse situation.

"Y-Yeah..." Haruka nodded at her, and looked down at his feet, somewhat ashamed.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 23, 2015, 06:10:36 AM: "Yeah, sure. After all, it should be about fun, right?" Satoshi chuckled. "I'll see you tomorrow, then." He hung up, content with his choice.

Feeling a bit tired, he sent Yukino a text:

Hey, I'm sorry I got on you today. I know there's stuff stressing you out. I also wanna apologize for Seph, he definitely didn't understand how you feel.

I'm meeting Neu at the beach tomorrow and I'm going to try to get some more information if I can, but afterwards...do you and Haruka maybe want to spend some time cardfighting in the park? I feel like the past few days we've spent most of our down time here with the only exception being that one time we went to PSY Shop via the amusement park. I wanna be able to talk to you guys about what happened, too.

He hit "Send" and rolled back over on the couch.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 23, 2015, 06:17:40 AM: Yukino ignored her phone's buzzing, deciding on reading it later. Haruka had her full attention at the moment. The way he hated his nickname was far more venomous than the way she hated being called "Hikari" before. The woman listened to him speak of the reason for his troubled sleeping one day. She almost whacked him for "rough morning", but it was in every sense of the word a "rough morning". Worry overtook most of her other emotions when she heard how he destroyed his own residence.

"What did it say?"

After asking this, she pulled on his scarf a bit to take a look at the bandages again. The same look of worry.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 23, 2015, 06:21:57 AM: Shut your mouth, kid.

Haruka heard the voice as Yukino went to check around the scarf. He was annoyed with himself to begin with, causing Yukino more and more pain and worry. If he could, he would disappear and come back when he was needed. It would probably be easier than admitting what the voice told him was actually getting to him

"Betrayal." Haruka said the one word, letting the coldness of the word sink in.

"And it hit me so hard when I heard it that I believed it. Just for a moment. That's what sent me on a frenzy, probably."

Haruka itched at his arm. It wasn't very comfortable being near plastered in these things.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 23, 2015, 06:25:32 AM: Yugure placed a loving arm on his shoulders. "Betrayal? What was that supposed to mean? Betrayal of who?"

The queen kept him close, trying to help him get comfortable. The meaning behind that word could've meant anything, but what did it mean to Haruka?
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 23, 2015, 06:36:32 AM: "Everyone. I thought I was going to be betrayed..." Haruka was mostly unwilling to say much else. His only wish was to disappear. At this point in time he wasn't embarrassed or even depressed or upset. He was ashamed.

"I should know that I wouldn't be. Betrayed I mean. But everytime I hear him. The possibility arises. The worst case scenario plays scene-by-scene." He looks over at her.

Dammit. He'd done it again. She was looking at him with worried eyes when all he had wanted to do was explain what had happened.

"I'm probably not so good for your stress, hahaha...." He laughed again, trying to break tension.

"Sorry Yuki. Its my problem. I'll deal with it." He gave a thumbs up, sighing a little. His eyes were still bloodshot and the bags under his eyes were beyond intense.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 23, 2015, 06:44:36 AM: Never was a fear of betrayal noticed by the queen, and she felt bad for not realizing it beforehand, even if there was no way to. This "voice" definitely made her blacklist very quickly, as the last thing she'd want is for Haruka to have to deal with demons too. Him apologizing, saying that it's his problem to deal with wasn't something she'd accept. As hypocritical as it seemed, given her own situation.

"Don't worry about me, dork", Yukino playfully insulted for the "your stress" remark.

"I wanna help you through this. You wanna stay with me for the night?" She offered. Not saying stay over, rather, stay with her. Dad would probably kill him, but his well-being came before dealing with a sitcom father trying to protect her from a boy she cared about.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 23, 2015, 06:50:51 AM: His mind started to wander down the intimate paths, but instead all he wanted was to say yes, lie in bed, and sleep. With Yukino nearby was a definite plus, but now all he needed was rest and somebody to keep him from what felt like his own self-destruction.

Haruka put a hand on Yukino's and smiled. "Sure. I'd like that."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 23, 2015, 06:54:39 AM: Miyuki woke up with a start. 'What?' she thought, still half asleep. 'W-when did I fall asleep'. She felt warmth on her face, and when she turned to look she saw Hana there. She seemed to be asleep as well. The events of a few hours ago came flashing back. She remembered feeling really tired, and resting on Hana. 'I guess I really did fall asleep like that'.

Trying not to wake Hana, she quietly got up. She looked around, seeing no-one else there. 'I guess Yukino and Haruka went off somewhere' she thought. 'Might as well go have breakfast or something'. If there was no-one else around, she might as well eat, and the see what she'd do then.

'Well, this'll be an earlier breakfast than usual' she thought. After a quick stretch, she was ready to leave this slightly strange room. She briefly wondered why exactly such a room existed in this mansion, as she'd been too tired yesterday to properly question it, but couldn't find an answer. Not like it really mattered.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 23, 2015, 02:48:58 PM: Satoshi woke up, having a dreamless sleep. A good thing, considering the mixed events of the past several days. According to his phone, Yukino received his text but never responded. He figured it might be a good idea to text her again, but instead, he went to get fresh laundry from his servant friend in the house and also ask about where to get swim trunks. He was going to go to the beach today with Neu Edelweiss, and even if she wasn't going to have fun unless they fought on Cray, he still wanted to maybe go for a dip in the sea.

The servant chuckled when Satoshi mentioned his date. "Guess Miss Espoir isn't the only dating one around here."

Satoshi raised an eyebrow at first, then it hit him and he grinned. "So they spent the night together?"

"Brought them fresh blankets this morning. They're adorable cuddled up, those two. Mr. Espoir might be furious with Mr. Nakahara, but if his daughter is truly happy, he might not have a choice."

Satoshi laughed. That was actually a pretty great thing to hear. The previous night, he had understood why Yukino had been so emotionally distant, but the fact that she was willing to try to get her mind off of things, at least briefly...she was going to be okay, especially since for all he knew, they were getting the clans back together.

He thought of Haruka's pained and tired look yesterday as they were coming back from the park. At one point, his legs almost gave out while Yukino had him hooked, and he had to help her carry him on their shoulders back to the mansion. He felt better after sitting for a while, but they both clearly needed sleep, sleep that they didn't get until not much longer after their partner in the triad did. And they still were, which was very fortunate.

He gave a bow to the servant. "Thank you for telling me this. I've been worried about my friends, which is why I started taking matters into my own hands. It's good to know that they're getting along exactly as expected."

"They kind of missed you yesterday from what I overheard during their practice games and games for fun." The servant nodded. "Granted, yes, they're emotionally drained from a lot of suffering recently. But still, you are part of the fellowship, no matter what it is you think of yourself, Mr. Kurosaki."

Satoshi grinned. "Yeah, I know. And despite the fact that I'm going off to have fun again today, it's all business. I have to find out what makes Neu Edelweiss tick." He then asked about where to get swim trunks, to which the servant handed him a pair of his own. "Keep 'em," he said, winking. "I don't swim all that often if ever, even with the multiple pools on this estate. So it's good to see someone getting use out of 'em."

With another bow, the farmboy was ready with his stuff to go to the beach. He left Neu a voicemail saying he'd be there soon, and then pegged off a quick text to Yukino.

Business at the beach today. Park soon? Please respond later.

Satoshi
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 23, 2015, 04:04:25 PM: New day, same nightmare. Yukino woke up a mess, as usual. She was still in her bed, and Haruka had been given a sleeping bag nearby in her room to stay in for the night. Looking over, he seemed to sleep soundly enough. Judging by how the boy's eyes were bloodshot and riddled with bags, peaceful rest may not instantly come to him as she hoped. Not wanting to disturb him, the girl kept her groans and grunts to quiet murmurs while leaving the room. Outside, the queen yawned, stretching with the sound of bones cracking.

Sure.

Was the only response to Satoshi's text. Honestly, he was one of her two best friends, but she wasn't in the mood to deal with his hopeful wishing through spending time with Neu.

Servants came to carry their young mistress through the morning. They made an attempt at feeding her, but the queen responded with how she still had no appetite.

Ezel urged his Vanguard to eat, but even his pleas didn't work. The lion took another approaching - convincing Yugure that Yunos' voice was real, as was his appearance. Gold Paladin was greatly shocked by it, however, they have begun conjuring theories. They believe the envy and jealousy in Yukino, along with this resolution to stay focused on issues like Neu and everyone else suffering called out to one of her Avatars in the rift. It's an impossible miracle of a bond reaching out through the Rift.

Gazing at the two specific copies of Viviane, perhaps they're right. Maybe it is Blaster Dark...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 23, 2015, 04:26:27 PM: The sound of footsteps cross the room. Is that...? Yeah. It is.

At least I got a few hours of sleep.

Haruka slept on and off for an hour at a time or so throughout the night. He was easily able to fall asleep each time, but awoke to his name being called, or rather, the other name. After several attempts at trying to calm himself down, he ended up just passing out from stress and the inability to feel emotion towards the name. He just heard it, and responded accordingly.

Each time he fell asleep, he awoke to the stare of a powerful gaze and the word "Seraphim" over and over.

He's been awake for twenty-six minutes about, eyes-shut trying to find a bit more sleep before the day begins. However, that didn't happen one bit.

Yukino must be up.

In most cases, Haruka would probably get up and follow after her, but his body wouldn't move. It was in some sort of stasis, or shock. A night terror? No, probably not. There was no fear in his body. Just emotional and physical drain. Despite being offered to sleep in her room, Yukino didn't say much of a word after they reached the room other than, "There" pointing to a spot on the floor, where he was then given a sleeping bag. This didn't particularly bother him considering it was better than trying to sleep in his own destroyed home.

Lonely all the same however.

Completely alone? Not quite. Sera was always holding onto his heart and mind so tenderly, yet with claws of razor sharp steel.

Let go.

No matter how many times Haruka wished for it, he wouldn't let go. Not once. He only gripped him tighter until Haruka was nearly suffocating. Figuratively speaking.

Inspired by the thought of coffee, Haruka found himself sitting straight up. Standing up was a challenge, so he sort of just crawled his way out of the room after a couple of minutes had passed.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 23, 2015, 05:49:17 PM: Apparently, Hana already left this morning. Yukino wanted to talk to her about last night... The queen... surprisingly sat still doing nothing but spacing out and thinking for a long time. If Blaster Dark was reaching out, how would they awake Blaster Blade? And what would come next after getting the blasters of fate in spirit forms? Would they be enough to deal with Neu?

No, they wouldn't.

But Ezel could be. While the Gold Paladins have been scrambled about, still trying to get a grasp of control over their preparations, and just dealing with the emotional barrier between Royal and Shadow... Ezel has yet to falter. Faced with this daunting challenge, the lion stood not with an irate frown, but with the frown of a man who knows there's more adversity to come.

Ezel was absolutely amazing. No wonder Garmore put him in charge, despite the wolf being one of the prime factors behind the foundation of Gold Paladin.

Yugure wanted to be more like him...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 23, 2015, 06:02:49 PM: With his pace slightly quickening, Haruka managed to get to his feet, holding himself against a wall.

Yukino?

Haruka was going to call out, but again, stasis. Nothing came out, except for some slight ragged breathing. However his mind was solely set on getting coffee. If he didn't have a fresh royal brew in the next ten minutes, Haruka was going to have an internal hissy fit. He started his way down the stairs on the opposite side of Yukino, who seemed to be really deep in thought. It's not like he could offer anything in the way of advice to begin with.

The kitchen. His sacred haven in this house. It wasn't the guest room, nor Yukino's room. The kitchen and the butler who made him coffee were a saving grace for Haruka when he was down on his luck. Fortunately for Haruka, he was there and the brew just finished being poured into the pot. Haruka had a warm smile, slowly limping over to the pot. Before he could touch it, the butler poured the cup himself and handed it to Haruka, bowing as he usually did.

There were no words for the gratitude Haruka felt for this man. He nodded rapidly, and took his first sip. He savored every bit of the first cup, because it was the freshest. It was the most bitter as well, so it packed a big enough punch to get Haruka back in action.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 24, 2015, 04:50:03 AM: Hana had reached home, quickly walking past the front yard. She entered the door to the manor, greeted by the butlers and maids.

"Where is Yukino?" she asked one of the workers.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 24, 2015, 04:54:41 AM: Yukino quickly holed herself up in her room, not responding to anyone calling out to her. The queen didn't spend that long crying, as she expected to. No, her tears had all dried up. Accompanied by a headache due to a lack of keeping herself properly hydrated. Rubbing her head, she quieted down, sobs gradually fainting into the silent darkness of the room. All the Paladins went quiet, unable of what to say to their Vanguard. Those bonded to her closely were well aware of her thoughts - the contemplation of suicide.

It would only be ridiculous, however. Laughed to the grave how a card game would be her undoing. Yunos, despite being unsealed, and part of her slightly returning joy was still too weak to do anything.

Perhaps, Yugure went about this all the wrong way. Emotionally driven to save those who guided her, she's having trouble figuring out anything on her own. Even Ezel and Garmore are still carrying her on. Driving herself to save the clans was less focus on specific people, and stopping Neu Edelweiss was simply focusing on the villain entirely. These two options could break apart the string that threatens to hang her.

Yet, it can also disrupt emotional fortitude. The desire to bring back her personal blasters, her king, her high dogs, her high dog trainers, all of them were still a driving force. It was just a force that she did nothing with.

... Even still, Yukino believes she found an answer to simply push her through this. An unfavorable one for everyone else, but one best for the Chosen Sword.

"Mistress Yukino stormed up to her room, and isn't answering any of us", a worker replied to the princess. However, many noted the name "Yukino" and not "Yukinee", which seemed problematic.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 24, 2015, 05:08:36 AM: "Just... tell me where she is." She noticed the worried look in all there faces, perhaps she was going to far. Hana's kind approach didn't work yesterday, her sister hasn't changed, hasn't moved. If that wasn't working then what will? Her sister was raised for this, Hana didn't understand why she was so frail. They both lost something dear to them, and even her sister has remnants of what was formerly her old clans. It wasn't fair, she's older, why does she cry so much? It was two months ago that Hana also freed her sister from the hold of despair using Alfred Early. Then this again... what approach even works?... Whether it worked or not, Hana just felt the need to fight her.

"And yet she's the one that keeps cheering me on... treating me like I need the help and looking down on me so..."

She turned to one of the workers.
"Tell her that the Princess challenges the Chosen Sword over at the fight room. A direct challenge against her honor, title, and her name as an Espoir. I'll be waiting." She bowed to the worker in apology and walked off.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 24, 2015, 05:27:21 AM: Ezel appeared as a spirit in the blackness of Yukino's world, and spoke to her.

After some time, one of the servants returned with hesitation. Relaying the first part of the message was a simple task, but the remaining bit shook the worker. A demand came from the closed off queen for him to speak it: "Against your honor, title, and name as an Espoir."

A darkened expression and a sigh - a steeled glare at the wall. Bladed pupils returning, the queen was done with this, and it was time to face Hana with this decision to move on. Still, hesitating, a hand squeezed at her face. Cards were messily spread on the bed she sat on, with Ezel's glowing dimly. Gathering Gareth, Beaumains, and Kryph, the champion's call was restored with the Gold Paladins changing their formations. Knowing that this had to be settled with the princess, the Chosen Sword... still hesitated for a few moments. It actually took awhile for the woman to finally get on her feet, and then an extra bit to finally open the door. Servants offered to lead the queen, but she ignored them.

Vanguard was Hana's choice of approaching Yukino, a choice that was not much favored by the queen. Yet, it wasn't the queen's choice to make concerning how to deal with the irate princess.

After what felt like an eternity, the door to the fight room was opened.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 24, 2015, 05:44:37 AM: Hana spread her cards across the table, she looked at every single one. She knew that her sister wasn't in the mood to fight, but its not like the enemy gives the common courtesy to wait for someone to feel better before striking, they'll take everything from you when you least expect it... just like Neu did.

"If she doesn't just move on then I'll really have to go at it myself... don't I?" Hana picked up the Angel Feather cards one by one, stacking them back on top of one another. It's silly, Hana was doing all this because she was no better than her sister. This was her loneliness, her inability to move forward as well. All the feelings that she's held deep inside have manifested into an overflowing emotion of frustration and a desire to be able to change things with her own hands, to no longer be the one whom is protected. All she wants now is move beyond the sky that was presented to be her limit, while her sisters was able to fly up along with the stars. "Yet she wasted that privilege... she's been wasting it..." Hana thought to herself. She was finished with having a sister who spent so much of her time wallowing in sadness that she's become nearly unapproachable. This wasn't her sister.

"Yukino, are you ready?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 24, 2015, 05:47:50 AM: "Honestly, no", Yukino responded with the door closing behind. "But that doesn't matter", uselessness of hesitation was accepted. The queen approached - deck in hand - set on becoming who people need her to be.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 24, 2015, 06:50:21 AM: In the end, Hana had gotten the answers that she wanted, having to do one powerful set of moves in the end, winning despite being all the way behind for the rest of the game. Hana saw just about all she needed to from Yukino.

Hana's eyes turned into stars, her dreams held deep within them, the future that she reaches for being reflected off of them. In front of her was Yukino, her sister who was her role model. The star whom she reached for, and the knight whom she keeps calling out to, wishing that she could be saved. In the end, they both had a laugh, had a conversation like they used to. They understood one another again, to an extent. Both had their own separate intentions deep within, but in terms of what mattered, they came into agreement. They could be sisters again, talk about miscellaneous things outside of Vanguard, but at the same time they could be allies, practicing and fighting alongside one another. Hana at least got this worry out the way.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 24, 2015, 07:18:52 AM: "You're okay with this?" Ezel asked his Vanguard.

I don't exactly have a choice.

Yukino shot herself in the foot, letting Ezel's presence answer for her. The queen kept her mouth shut for the most part, giving her emotions to the lion as power. The Superior Ride, Silver Fang Witch immediately, a clean field setup of Grade Three bosses leading the charge. Once more did the deck evolve with the return of Kryph, now sporting Sagramore's eldest form. Triggers came like they never had before, but that also included a heal that couldn't activate, and three drawn. The game was closer than others, yet, the queen still knew it wasn't going to be enough. Not yet, at least.

Those sword-eyes reflected warmth into the starry gaze of Hana's, finally answering the call she was waiting for. Sharing a laugh, along with hearing Hana on how elder sister didn't have faith in Gold Paladin... They wanted to say she was wrong - that the only person Yukino had no faith was was herself. The queen, however, agreed with Hana. Though, she disagreed with the fun of vanguard not being about winning or losing. Earnestly believing that used to be the case, Neu Edelweiss stole away this "fun" because Royal Paladin's vanguard lost.

While ecstatic with mending this matter with her sister quickly, promising to speak of crushes and the like - girl things that Father Espoir would likely punch himself yet another new window over...

She wanted to scream.

Please understand.

She bit her finger, very hard.

I can't be the sister you want anymore. I'm sorry. Please, don't be mad at me.

The queen's darkness was cleansed by the light, but the hint of misery still clung to heart like a parasite. A yearning to succeed and have power like everyone else; to enjoy the same Vanguard everyone else around did... She would stop sitting still with her despair, at least. A decision to move forward, though painful, was made. Hana must've still been holding onto something that Yukino wanted to get rid of, Haruka's severe paranoia and the Seraphim matter needed to be dealt with, Satoshi who continued to mingle with the enemy for information and felt as if he was unable to keep up needs to find peace back in his mind.

The Chosen Sword's smile finally coated the sadness. An angel who fell from grace, fooling everyone she cared about to help them through. To sacrifice herself.

Yugure was going to take up Hana's offer on practicing in order to better herself into succeeding. Maybe showing off Yunos' return through spirit because of her envy. ... Actually, the reason why he's back should probably be left out.

Ezel, in spirit form once again, wrapped an arm around Yukino's shoulder, hugging his vanguard.

Hana +3 Affinity
Gold Paladin +10 Affinity
Ezel +20 Affinity
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 24, 2015, 07:35:02 PM: New day, same nightmare. Unlike yesterday, Haruka wasn't in her room anymore... The queen would've liked to know she wasn't alone, but she couldn't just cling onto someone else for warmth. For some unknown reason, she felt incredibly weak. Turning about in bed slowly every few minutes, with agonizing moans and tired groans, she sat up. It took a little bit longer to actually get out of bed. Staggering about, Yukino proceeded to ready herself for the rest of the day. Once again, it was late in the afternoon. A sleep schedule that was completely wrecked beyond repair had settled in as the norm.

Right, I have work to do.

Yugure forced herself to jolt awake with a cold shower, as there were a number of issues that needed addressing among her loved ones. First, she would actually need to find them. Hana was probably still around, but Haruka and Satoshi weren't. Apologies were in order to be given to the farm boy, and as for the crush... Well, an exact plan for how to deal with his inner demon was difficult to conjure. Yet, an idea formulated itself. One that'll probably catch him off-guard, but still.

Greeting the servants, the queen began making her way to the door down the stairs.

When getting to the entrance hallway, her moving drastically slowed, becoming wobbly.

"Huh? I... My legs... feel like jelly..."

Yugure leaned on the wall for support, noticing her vision was beginning to blur as well. Lifting up an arm felt like trying to hold up a ton of bricks, trying to see her hand. Her stomach growled, greatly deprived of food for a good week now. Finally unable to muster up the energy to even move, the girl lost consciousness, and fell on the floor.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 24, 2015, 07:52:01 PM: Hana woke up early in the morning. She started the day off by running outside on the front yard, doing usual exercises and stretches to sta in shape for dancing. She spend some time in her room practicing and singing along. Even the Angel Feathers tried to join in. They weren't as good as the Bermuda Triangle, but they tried.

"Nociel, you sound like a garbage truck."
"WAAAAH!!!!"

Next, Hana spent time in the fight room, asking some of the servants to help her practice in the Vanguard fight world. She remembered how she used to have a stage persona, even in Vanguard. Even after Bermuda Triangle had disappeared, the name still stayed as a signature to her phone, "BELLA." It was her idol name, no doubt, and the fact that it was in her phone was proof that even in a world without Bermuda Triangle, she still retained this very same dream. The practice with the workers wasn't so much a practice in actual fighting, but a practice in Vanguard fighting as a performance art, transferring her idol persona into who she was as a fighter. This was something that used to come naturally to Hana, but it had dulled recently and she felt that it needed practice.

*STAREYES*
*MAHOU SHOUJO TRANSFORMATION*
"Let's go minna!! Nociel attacku! LOVE ARROW SHOOTO!!!"
"HANA-SAMA!!!" A butler screamed passionately, overcome by the kawaii-desuness.

It was all in a days work just to restore her old self which she had lost. First she had to work on herself, then work on getting back the rest that was beyond her. A worker had approached her about her sister. The same feeling had overcome Hana again, the same feeling from yesterday, but she really tried to hold it back. "Dammit..." She thought to herself. She felt disappointment. What if her sister was going to be stuck in the same place forever, just deadweight, holding back the Gold Paladins and the armies of Cray, holding back the family and her mission as a whole. She turned to a worker with a half-hearted attempt to smile.

"Bring Yukino-... Yukinee to my room. I'll go into the kitchen to cook some eggs for her..." She went to her room to fetch her apron then headed into the kitchen.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 24, 2015, 08:07:00 PM: Several servants used unnecessary amounts of effort to tend to the fallen child. With haste did they deploy a stretcher, higher ranked butlers making a path with two rows of themselves to block off other obstructions. "Mistress down, mistress down!" was shouted, sirens going off. They lifted the hungry queen onto the stretcher, laying her down. Then, quickly began to deliver her to the princess' room. Dad Espoir opened the door of his office to take a peek at the commotion. Regret instantly washed over as he watched all of the employees act like raving idiots.

"She's just hungry..." He facepalmed.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 24, 2015, 08:25:14 PM: Hana just finished cooking the 49th egg.

"Hana-sama I think that's way too much..." A butler informed her.

"Shut up, I'm not in the mood for anything non-egg right now..." She said, furiously cooking the 50th egg.

This was the poor butler that just had to deal with a dad-san that was tired of the other worker's inability to analyze the current situation with Yukino. Now he's stuck with angry Hana and her egg problems, this man deserves a raise.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 24, 2015, 08:27:59 PM: Initially, Satoshi had started flat out running past all the houses, but when he started to pass Haruka's, he had a thought. What if it was because Yukino threw off her eating again? That's why she devoured so much of the feast before; she had been starving herself.

"Well, I gotta do something about that."

He dashed inside, packed up the rest of his leftover food, and made a beeline for the Espoirs.

Upon being let into the mansion, he zipped into the kitchen and started cooking.

He completely didn't notice Hana making a large amount of eggs as he chopped up vegetables for a salad.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 24, 2015, 08:47:47 PM: After some time passing, Yukino finally awoke once again, dizziness overpowering the queen's attempt to sit up. "Goddammit..." she cursed under her breath. Unable to clearly make out where she even was, tries at getting up were still made. Which only made the aching pain of her body worse, as the strength to hold itself together was absent. Another swear, she didn't have time for this. There was work to do.

But she just couldn't get up.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 24, 2015, 08:51:23 PM: After finishing the 50th egg, Hana looked in admiration at the stack, truly majestic. Now back to business. She ordered the butler to come and take it up to her room along with utensils. She also took a piece of dry cloth along with a bucket of ice water with her and she carried both up to her room. Yukino was on her bed as she ordered her to be taken, she seemed to have woken up. Hana took one of the chairs and moved it over next to her bed where her sister was. She dipped the cloth in the cold water and handed it over to her sister.

"Here, put it on your head. It helps with headaches and it just feels nice, I saw it in a movie once." Hana said, letting out an expression that tried to be a smile, but instead ended up being something in between glad and disappointed.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 24, 2015, 09:07:58 PM: Yukino translated Hana's expression as disappointment, which was natural. Hana still didn't have the sister she wanted back after yesterday's trial, but that was something that can be fixed after this mess. Taking the rag, it soothed the pain storming about in her head at the very least. Her entire body was still weak, but she managed to ignore the migraine enough to sit up. Vision was still somewhat blurred, but it was clearing up.

"Sorry", the queen offered an apology for wasting everyone's time. She actually ignored the eggs initially, staring off into space in thought.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 24, 2015, 09:13:21 PM: Satoshi came in, wearing an apron from the kitchen and carrying a tray with a nice meal of a steak, a salad, some noodles and orange juice. He sat with the tray next to Hana, looking to Yukino. She definitely looked like she was in rough shape.

"Cavalry's arrived, darlin'," he said with a weak smile.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 24, 2015, 09:16:11 PM: For once, Haruka actually just showed up. He had actually only been here once without being invited or coming back with a group of people. It was the first time he was here. Which was, to say the least, an interesting evening.

Before he hit the doorbell, he noticed footsteps moving about inside. He pressed the doorbell and got an instant response.

"Waiting for me?" Haruka had a smirk and a hand on his hip. The staff had let him in, knowing of how Yukino was doing. Due to lack of eating and other health-related issues, she had passed out on her way out of the house, to which she was then made eggs, 50 eggs specifically, for her by Hana.

"Hmm. Right. I should probably stay down here then? Or should I go?" The two staff members, both maids in their middle-ages were kind of just wondering what to say to Haruka. He was obviously interested in seeing the sisters, even if Satoshi was around he wouldn't mind catching up with him. However he wasn't about to simply request somebody's presence. Talk about rude.

"Erm, tell you what. I'll just be here. Or, the kitchen having coffee. Either of those places, okay? I doubt anybody knows I'm here so I won't be a hassle, okay?" Haruka put a finger to his lips making the "shhhh" movement with his lips. He then gets off the sofa and directs himself to the kitchen down the hall and up the stairs. The one he always found his favorite butler at. Alas, he wasn't there today. He was probably taking care of the fallen Yukino or helping Hana with the food.

"The kitchen to myself then? Eh... Well the coffee is already made." Haruka poured a cup.

Sip. Sip. Gulp.

Mmmmm... Much better than the store bought stuff.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 24, 2015, 09:21:40 PM: "it's fine..." Hana resolved not to be so hard her for the time being, really, if anything, there's enough time later to breeze through the problem here, plus she was actually hungry herself. She had the workers move the eggs towards them along with ketchup, salt, pepper, chili sauce, pizza sauce, and many other things that no one would ever thing of combining with an egg. A thin table was placed at the corner of the bed, in between her and her sister. A spoon, knife, fork, plates, and cloth already laid on it, the quantity for a meal for two.

"We didn't get to eat together yesterday so I already knew why you collapsed before the baka butlers even told me." She picked up her fork and set the cloth on her lap.Her voice was tender now, being caught up in the moment, one that she hasn't experienced in so long. "Since it's just us two right now, we can have a meal for two. It's been awhile since the last time that we've ate a meal with just us two like this huh? We've met so many people.."

She ran her her hand through her sister's hair, so she wouldn't just feel her words, but her tender touch as well. "We can talk about the rest later, for now I just want to enjoy a meal with just the two of us, just like it was months ago. Even if its in silence, I hope that you can feel my love Yukinee, and I can feel your presence... that alone is enough. Come now, the eggs are getting cold." Hana gave out a smile as she was lost in this moment, now its sincere, hoping Yukinee would see it.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 24, 2015, 09:42:50 PM: Yukino gave Satoshi an inquisitive gaze. While knowing that he was here because of goodwill, Hana spoke in a way that clearly didn't invite him. She was curious as to how he'd take that.

Despite brain and body both crying out for the food, her heart wasn't much interested in that as much as dealing with the future. All the queen believed was that Hana was sick of having to deal with a sickly mess of a woman, and that this was more than likely a nuisance. The butlers even bugged the princess over it, which was even worse. Remaining silent, sincere warmth of words couldn't reach the spiky, invisible wall. Yukino's eyes closed, trying to stay to her thoughts, but nearly passing out again because of hunger.

Then, Hana's hand broke through the barrier.

Yukino found herself feeling twice as pathetic, nearly crying at the touch. A broken mess of a sister didn't deserve kindness or coddling like this, she was supposed to focus on everyone else. Of course, another shortcoming due to her own incompetence got in the way - the lack of eating.

"Sorry..." was the only word mustered for a few minutes, still avoiding the food. "We can talk about the rest now", was offered after those moments of silence. She kind of just wanted Hana to finally dig into her, getting everything out so Yukino wouldn't feel awful about what was still hidden.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 24, 2015, 09:46:30 PM: Satoshi shrugged with that same weak smile, leaving the tray with a look that said, "Whenever you feel better, I'll be around." He quietly stepped out and headed back into the kitchen...

...only to run smack into Haruka. Stumbling, he hit the floor.

"Ow..."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 24, 2015, 09:57:25 PM: With good timing, Haruka had already downed his cup of coffee and placed it in the sink before going full headbutt mode into Satoshi. Lucky for Haruka, his head was sort of facing down, meaning Satoshi got a face full of Haruka's forehead, whereas Haruka came away mostly unscathed. It still kind of hurt though.

"Ow ow ow ow.... What's the big idea- Oh, Satoshi. There you are. How's Hana and Yukino? Heard Yukino wasn't eating right. I was gonna head up there but I figured Hana had it under control or something so I was just..." Haruka would have sounded pathetic admitting he was waiting for the butler to come back so they could talk, so he went to Plan B.

"Drinking some delicious coffee until somebody came down. Right on time, mate!" Haruka produced a smile, which was, believe it or not, completely authentic. He wasn't feeling too down, and his fatigue was mostly gone. Sera had done Haruka a service, taking the wheel for a bit. Haruka unexpectedly found himself feeling much better than he had been the past three or so days.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 24, 2015, 09:58:54 PM: "Nee-san, I know you never understood why Espoirs loved eggs so much, but after you take one bite maybe you will. They're nutritious, delicious, and an excellent source if protein. Yes Dad-san told me he bulked up off of eggs back in the day." Hana let out a little laugh. She picked up a fork from her sister's end of the table and tried to hand it to her. "Well, its obviously not that simple, this entire situation were in." She took a bite and sat silently for a little. "If you really insist on talking about it now,you should eat first so that I know you won't pass out on me or anything." Hana also had the orange juice placed on her table along with water so she could choose whichever she prefered to drink.

"Also, we can practice later to talk about things as well. It would sure beat just being alone you know."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 24, 2015, 10:21:33 PM: "Hana's...having alone time with her." Satoshi rubbed his forehead. "She hasn't been eating right for days, the feast was evidence of that...so I brought some more food, but it was made clear I wasn't allowed to be up there by the littlest." He sighed and took a mug for himself, sipping.

This was some pretty good coffee. Haruka had good taste.

"You seem a lot better than when I last saw you, though." He sat the mug on a coaster and then placed himself in a chair, crossing his legs. "Although, who knows, could be an act." He fake chuckled a little. Honestly, hiding feelings from one another was really starting to bother him, especially they were all best friends, but burdens were burdens. Even if some were meant to be shared.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 24, 2015, 10:28:46 PM: You know, the ridiculousness of Dad Espoir actually gaining a large margin of that muscle with eggs alone... was actually something Yukino could see. A short, light chuckle with a wry smile was her reply. Not accepting the fork, she continued contemplating the situation. It wasn't that simple to talk about matters, but she'd love to just get them out of the way now. Still, looking down, eating so fainting won't occur seemed like a good idea if she wanted to get down to business. Before even realizing it, the fork was not only in hand, but had stuck itself into the food to deliver a bite.

Being alone would make her less a hindrance, so it didn't sound that bad if everyone else got to benefit. At the same time, loneliness wasn't something the queen could easily cope with as much as she'd like.

Quietly, she took a small bite. It... had no taste. Yukino thought she was losing her senses, but quickly took another bite to make sure. This one had taste, with relieved her.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 24, 2015, 10:32:27 PM: "Could say that. I saw Neu today though. That was just... well, it was unpleasant at first. I sort wanted to strangle her." Haruka leans against the marble counter, recalling the event to Satoshi.

"She beat me with Overlord. The End, specifically. Then she took me out to coffee. At first I was skeptical, but I was near dead so I took her up on it." Haruka leaves out the part of Sera. It wasn't exactly important that he was finally talking to Haruka. Or that he was even existent. "So, long story short, being beaten by Neu focused me enough to get back into the groove of things. Well, maybe it was her incessant teasing and taunting that just got me fired up."

Haruka grabbed another cup of joe. He needed to keep up the buzz. His foot was tapping at near rapid speed, but that was okay with him. Being wired up was better than shutting down.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 24, 2015, 10:36:40 PM: Satoshi was taking a sip of coffee when Haruka mentioned Neu using Dragonic Overlord the End. He did a huge spit take.

"SHE WHAT?!" He couldn't believe what he was hearing. Last time he fought her, the best her Kagero variant could do was utilize Dragonic Lawkeeper and its Limit Break. What had changed to allow her the wield the power of Haruka's Vanguard?!

He stooped down to wipe up the coffee he spat out. "That's freakin' crazy. Last time I played her, she wasn't using your avatar at all. That's such a dramatic change. I don't get what happened to allow for that."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 24, 2015, 10:44:08 PM: "I didn't expect her to have a hold of Kagero in the first place. I guess it slipped my mind that she had been the one who sealed all the clans away in the first place." Haruka pockets his right hand, sipping his coffee staring out the window.

"The fight was close, but like I said, The End took me out. Spectral Duke wasn't even close to powerful enough to deal with the power that the Overlord possessed. Strangely enough..." Haruka turned to Satoshi. His stare was stone-cold for a only a second, then turned all too sincere at once.

"I felt no remorse for him. He had become a puppet to Neu. I miss him so much, but, at this point." He paused.

"He's no longer My Vanguard. Not anymore." Haruka finished his cup and placed it on the table. While he meant to be gentle, the sound of the cup hitting the counter top was actually quite startling, for Haruka even.

"Until he's unlocked from the Rift, I can't consider him an ally."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 24, 2015, 10:50:35 PM: No longer his Vanguard?...

Well, it sort of made sense. Haruka had to be able to bond with Vortimer in the same way Yukino had to be able to bond with Ezel. Otherwise, the chances of them getting back those avatars was slim to none. Of that, he was quite certain. But the fact that Neu was able to use their avatars...

"That means she can use all of Yukino's Blasters...and Jellal's Dragon of Hell..." Satoshi shook his head. This was unreal. This girl had bonded with the clans enough to control the avatars and---

Something dawned on him. Was that why she wanted to play Vanguard all of the time? The entire point was to unseal those avatars and use them for herself, since they were such considerable power?

He clenched his fist. So fun was a ruse to get people to play her game...he had been so stupid. So incredibly stupid. He walked up to a wall and started smacking his head against it.

"Stupid, stupid, stupid, stupid!"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 24, 2015, 11:00:58 PM: "Satoshi..?" Haruka walked over, putting a hand on his shoulder to prevent the oncoming concussion.

"Hey, hey. Even if she can control our avatars, that doesn't mean a thing right now. It just means she's playing the deck's that we know best, and if anything that's an advantage we need to take."

Haruka nodded, trying to calm down the currently rampaging farm boy. Swinging his head at a wall was more than likely just going to cause structural damage to the house, and his brain.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 24, 2015, 11:03:35 PM: "No, you don't get it. I..."

Satoshi sighed. "I messed up and I didn't even realize. Whatever friends Neu says she has, she's been using to get closer to those avatars. Every time she fights one of those friends, win or lose, she gets closer and closer to having it all..." He rubbed his forehead. "So thanks to me and some others...she's got your avatar. Who knows how close she is to the others..."

He walked back to the table and slumped down. He just wanted to help, and instead had just made everything worse.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 24, 2015, 11:08:14 PM: "Hoh?" Haruka stood there, hands pocketed as usual. His stare went up, where the sky would normally be. Instead he found himself looking at a ceiling. Close enough.

"You wouldn't have known. In fact, I didn't even know. And I bet you ask anyone and they wouldn't have known either. It's not a matter of the fact you did it, or they did it, or whoever is involved. It's a matter of dealing with her now." Haruka wasn't going to sugar coat the rest of the message. He rarely wanted to make a poor impression, but this might result so.

"If you sit here and cry about it, what good is that doing for us? You have access to Limit Break now, and with that power I expect you to hold up your end of the damn bargain. All of us have a part to play when it comes to releasing the locked clans, and even more so to stop Neu and whoever else is out there from taking anymore. Hear me? Ypu can't start sulking now. Otherwise the efforts everyone has put in so far will start going to waste."

Haruka wasn't yelling per se, but his voice was echoing throughout the kitchen at least.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 24, 2015, 11:18:43 PM: "What progress?!" Satoshi couldn't hold it off anymore. He stood up suddenly and turned to Haruka, upset fury in his eyes.

"I don't know of any progress we're making because neither of you says a goddamn thing to me anymore! Yukino's a mess who hates my guts because she's jealous I get to keep my clan and have an avatar I love when hers is ripped away from her, but won't say it straight to my face because she's not supposed to be mad at me or something, when clearly I'm the one making her miserable!"

He jabbed a finger in his face. "And you...you've been tired all the time and I never see you around, just like her, and every time I see you, just like her, I feel like you're hiding something! All three of us are best friends; there's nothing to hold back if either of you knew really knew what that mean!"

He panted, his anger turning to tears. "But what do I know?! All I'm trying to do is not be lonely anymore and make things right...and help you guys...and instead I just...I just feel more and more alone, all the time..."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 24, 2015, 11:36:29 PM: Haruka wanted to hit him, so hard. The only thing Haruka had to hide was Sera, which was the reason he was so tired anyways. Having two hosts made the body easily drained.

Soon after Haruka had finally decided a course of action, a small confession on who Sera was and why he hadn't said it before, it went awry. Sera decided he had something to say.

Please, nothing dumb!

No promises, kid.

He walked towards Satoshi, pushing his hand out of the way. "I am the Seraphim that resides within this host. However, you may address me as Sera. And also-"

Sera... What are you doing... Stop!!!

"I feel quite threatened right now." The robotic gaze of Haruka quickly turned furious, as he threw a jab into the side of Satoshi's head. He was swift about it, however Haruka had absolutely no idea how hard he just hit Satoshi.

SERA! THE FUCK MAN!?

The instant Haruka took control of the body again, he backed up, looking at Satoshi. He couldn't tell if Satoshi was in any pain or not. Haruka never hit anybody before, so he was unsure of his own strength. However Satoshi seemed to be decently strong, so he could make the assumption that didn't do anything at all. He simply looked over in horror.

"H-Holy... Are you okay?!"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 24, 2015, 11:50:16 PM: Yukino took a few bites so Hana was glad. Getting there and moving on, one step at time. She waited for her sister to finish chewing, using the time to herself to think about how she should make her approach. In particular, what she wanted was to reay know what has been keeping her sister down. Hana has been pretty dumb, making assumptions especially as someone whos so naive. Her assumptions were usually wrong anyways, even when she was actung seriously.

"Hey, nee-san, I want you to tell me what the problem is and what it has been." she nodded, and then she felt she should add the next but, for a fair exchange, and also so that her sister may know her state as well. "I'll also tell you what's been up with me as well."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 24, 2015, 11:52:23 PM: It all happened in an instant, but it felt like slow motion. Haruka...or, rather, "the Seraphim," as he called himself at that point...unleashed what was probably supposed a jab, a light punch. That's what he was expecting, at least. But the moment Haruka's knuckles collided with his head, it was a different story.

This was the punch of an experienced fighter. Someone who had done this before, maybe even fought in a war. This wasn't the strength of someone playfully trying to get Satoshi to refocus. This was almost murderous intent, all forced behind a single fist.

Holy shit did it hurt.

Satoshi slid across the floor. Despite his strong body, he wasn't ready to respond to such a sudden punch like that. He collided with the wall, slumping over. Blood oozed out of the side of his head where Haruka's knuckled had grazed. Staring at it, he suddenly didn't feel well, giving a slight groan before closing his eyes.

See? the voice said before it faded. Hope has already escaped this child...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 25, 2015, 12:04:23 AM: "N-no no no oh my god." Haruka was almost in tears himself.

He was aiming to hurt you too, you understand?

"I don't give a damn right now, this is your fault! How hard did you hit him?"

65%. There isn't a lot of upper arm strength to work with, however-

Haruka was on running over to Satoshi to check on the hit on his head. It was a pretty tactical hit. Right at the temple.

"C'mon.... Satoshi.. Get up.." Haruka runs over to the sink and wets a rag, wrings it and dabs it on the hit. He grabs Satoshi's arm and uses his own body to prop Satoshi up. He starts to long trek to the guest room.

"These are the things I don't tell you..." Haruka explained who Sera, the Seraphim was, and how it all started from square 1. He was mostly done telling the story to the half-conscious Satoshi by the time they made it to the guest room.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 12:36:58 AM: Mr. Espoir put his paper down. More than anyone was he tired of these kids' shit.

A bunch of servants rushed into the kitchen, horrified chefs gasping in awe, even Haruka's butler colleague was shocked enough to spill his good brew all on the floor. Great, he was more concerned for that than the man who just got clobbered. Do you know how expensive and precious this coffee is?

Yukino honestly didn't want to bother saddling Hana with her problems. They were just setbacks, minor things that could be ignored. They weren't really, but compared to everything else, they should stay that way. Still, having someone who could understand why she's in so much pain... Maybe it wouldn't leave her to isolated misery, a despair that'd eventually silence her own world. Taking small bites, she began thinking of how to ease into it. Or if it would even do anything for her... No, it doesn't have to. The queen wants to help Hana more, and this was the bargain.

"I'm a pretty awful Chosen Sword", she started. "I've failed at everything I was supposed to do, and I guess I'm finally breaking under the pressure. I only expect myself to keep messing up... Everyone's crumbling around me, and I'm supposed to stop that. I'm supposed to get us ready to get back what we lost... But... losing everything after I thought it was okay to mess up..."

Her headache grew worse. While trying to cry, she still hasn't had a good drink of anything, so tears barely weld up.

... She held back on saying she believed giving up her own happiness to focus would be better overall. Emotionally driven toward a goal turned her to darkness, so why bother sporting it?

"... Alright, your turn."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 25, 2015, 01:32:34 AM: "Well you know, you were the first born, so its not like you had any say in it." Hana was silent for a bit, looking around for something she could look at, just as long as it would avoid eye contact with her sister. She lifted up her legs from the floor and placed her feet along the corner of the chair, laying back more and hugging her knees. "But you know, if you think I'm weak and break easily then I'll show you how strong I've become." She tightened her grip and frowned a little, "I'm always seen as the one who needs to be protected, always underestimated, always looked down on just because I was born after you. Heck, I wasn't even introduced Vanguard 'til I found it myself. I work so hard but I'm always behind." She thought back, "Cero challenged you first, called you his rival, meanwhile I'm the one who bashed his face in during the National finals, everyone praises you, and even when I'm around you're the prime target. I'm just so jealous..." Her eyes turned into stars once again, and she saw herself, the one that has gone beyond the skies and reached the stars.

"I don't even understand why you feel like its all just you, I thought you got over this egotistical act. I don't even understand what makes you think that you're the only one who has to get things back. I'm right here trying to do the same thing, and quite frankly you're the one who taught me the power of relying on others anyways. If Alfred were here he would slap you around until you got back into your senses..." She realized that her sister hasn't drank anything yet, so she lifted up the glass of water to offer it to her. "Here.. "

"If failure is weighting down on you then let me take some of the weight," Hana held her sister's hand, "I'm strong now nee-san... and I'm going to lend you my strength"

"You failed to fulfill your destiny because it was never meant to be fulfilled alone in the first place. As powerful as Alfred was, he always fought with Blaster Blade by his side. Majesty Lord Blaster was two swords formed into one. Ezel and Garmore fight together and Garmore slacks off so Ezel is always having to make up for that but y'know, that's how their relationship is like ... It's not so much the Chosen Sword, but Chosen Swords, I don't think you should just keep thinking its all you... and if you think its because of whatever happens with your eyes then I dare you to look into mine."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 25, 2015, 02:10:16 AM: "Should've just talked to him."

Haruka's disappointment takes an even worse dive, as Satoshi becomes unresponsive.

"What do I do...." Haruka felt guilt pangs in his stomach and chest.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 02:11:13 AM: Yukino took a drink of the water Hana handed to her, then spoke: "I'm sorry. I don't mean to take attention from you, or overshadow your effort, nor your life."

Now she was cursing her own birth, believing that it pushed out the princess'. The truth was Yukino cheered her on just because she's her sister, but it may have come across the wrong way. Placing the fork down with the glass, a sigh came out with closing eyes. Listening deeply to what Hana stated about the egotistical act. Perhaps, she was still the queen of old whom she came to despite. A tyrannical jerk who thought herself to be supreme because of her destiny - unwavering when it came to solving things with violence. Oh, how she wished someone would just beat her with a stick.

"I... did say prepare us to get back what we lost..."

A small correction, one she mumbled. Maybe Hana didn't hear it.

"I never doubted you were strong", she spoke up. "You're stronger than me, honestly."

Though the princess took the queen's hand, she gently pulled it back.

"You don't have to deal with how pathetic I am. I'm going to stop thinking about myself and focus on you, Haruka, Satoshi, and the others... I already know I can't do this alone... Which is why I want to help you all before anything."

The Chosen Sword still bit the bullet. This conversation put her in pain, but it had to be done to finally clear the air. All she wanted to do was get Hana to respond to her with the same enthusiasm as two months ago. Perhaps it's far beyond that point, though. Avoiding eye contact, bladed eyes stared downward.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 25, 2015, 02:34:20 AM: "Okay its time for a cardfight." Hana ordered a worker to fetch the deck in her closet. She ordered another to clear the table.
"This again yeah I'm not taking no for an answer."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 02:35:52 AM: "I didn't think I was going to be given a choice", another butler came in to give her Ezel's deck. Her lips curled into a small smile, feeling better with the lion around.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 04:39:03 AM: Father Espoir came to check on the boys fighting in the kitchen and contained his fury... to the point of nearly overflowing. These people were not only messing with his daughters, but spilling blood and whacking each other in HIS household?! Anyone else, and they would've started with launching Haruka into the wall he punched Satoshi in. ... Then again, nobody else would have this manpower. The maids and butlers all scrambled to get cleaning while hastily tending to the farm boy's hopefully-not-cracked skull.

"You damn brats..."

For some reason, Hana kept having Yukino fight. Not bothering to resist, the queen continued on with a great losing streak, as she expected. To the Gold Paladin deck left behind Cero, no else, to make her feel even worse. Despite being on the verge of tears, the queen did all she could to hold them. Knowing Hana could see the growing misery, apologies were offered constantly. Every loss just extended the difference in power, and each time she didn't question what went wrong. She knew it wasn't her place to win anymore.

Despite believing in this downward spiral, she won a game. One game that didn't faze her, believing it to be a joke. Another one was played, Gold Paladin began sporting some forms of consistency. Not by their mechanic, but rearguards rushing to the fray, Sagramore's eldest form tearing the battlefield apart, the sheer volume of Ezel's voice leading the charge. While Pharmacy Witch doesn't cooperate as much, the Falcon Knights and Critical Triggers started to, surprisingly enough.

Surely, this is a running gag.

This couldn't be real.

The woman still fought the same way, and the clan stayed quiet when fighting with her except for when games were over. What changed? What was changing? There was no extra magic, nor was the secret promise with her and Ezel modified. Things just... began working.

Yugure found herself breaking into tears, finally winning games again. She didn't understand how... Was Hana just holding back...?

Still, finally having some bite back for her bark lightened up her heart some. It wasn't enough to kill the parasite of despair, yet, it was enough to finally get a small, genuine smile off of her. Hana kept trying to draw out a power that Yukino didn't comprehend, Ezel stated that he'd do everything within his power, and even Yunos silently approved of their forward momentum with a grin only an asshole could give, as described by Garmore.

Yugure thanked them and apologized to Hana again, having a little spirit restored.

Hana +5 Affinity
Gold Paladin +10 Affinity
Ezel +10 Affinity
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 25, 2015, 05:18:52 AM: A deck that was formerly Cero's that Hana turned into her own after her long days of practicing and testing. The power between her and her sister was initially obvious, far too great, and at one point, Hana winning before her sister had even ridden to grade 3. It was the result of hard work She not only increased her proficiency with Angel Feather, but Gold Paladin as well, with Garmore being the center of the deck. Each fight, Hana's disappointment grew, but despite that, she kept wanting to keep on trying again and again. She stayed expressionless, giving away nothing to her sister in an attempt to make her fight and keep on fighting. At one point she held back, and that was the game here she won with twelve cards in her hand. It all seemed hopeless, her sister was going to lose another game. Then a double critical.

Things were finally starting to turn around.

Eventually Hana was the one who had to catch up, riding Pellinore, adding its limit break on top of a Sleygal Dagger combo, the whole field basically powered up, just to be guarded by Yukino who even after all that still managed to keep a good amount of cards in hand. This was what she wanted to see all along. She felt a happiness inside her heart, she was glad, but she still kept her same expressionless presentation.

After all the games were done, things were starting to look up at least, so Hana let out a bit of her smile again, joking a little here and there. But really, she wanted to just let out her idol persona. It would be awkward though seeing as they were just sitting down and she couldn't dance.

Affinity:
Yukinee: +5

"I'm kind of curious, have you just been sleeping all day?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 05:24:15 AM: "Hmm...? Oh, yes... I've been trying to sleep", Yugure spoke, still a bit too shaken to make eye contact. "Trying" was the best way to put it. The woman got six to eight hours of sleep like everyone else... only in broken pieces since the same nightmare of the invasion continued waking her. In addition to almost being taken away as Exculpate twice.

Yukino kept quiet, not wanting to irritate Hana again.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 25, 2015, 05:47:31 AM: At this point, Hana wasn't trying to think about the situation that they are in. It's time to take another break, some time for herself, or at least, time for her and her sister to just talk as if all things were ok. They really weren't, but it doesn't hurt to ignore things just for a moment. That's what Hana was doing right now, to her, everything was as it was two months ago. There's no need for her to be harsh or take action. All there is to this moment now is just a fun conversation with her sister about anything really.

"I see, well I guess you're like Yukinee's bf then because he drinks coffee all the time. Butler-san tells me that at least, and I think Mi-hime made him coffee at some point... I'm not sure."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 05:58:05 AM: "His name is Haruka... and he's not my boyfriend, Hana", Yukino said. She doesn't know why seeing as Hana doesn't remember names all that well. With the way the queen yearns for the boy, "Yukinee's bf" was probably more accurate than she wanted to admit. "He does drink a lot of coffee, though..."

You know, maybe caffeine isn't a bad idea. Or, at least it wouldn't be if caffeine didn't make her sick to her stomach. The sheer smell of it makes her stomach churn - the sheer thought of it.

Unconsciously, a small bite of the eggs was taken. Still hungry.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 25, 2015, 06:10:57 AM: With the way they spend time together, they may as well be. "Poor New Thirst-kun, awkward third wheel..." Hana drank some orange juice. Oranges tasted nice, especially with eggs.

"That's weird seeing how you are like around him though, at the same time its pretty nice. I mean at first I was like ewwwwwww, but now I feel more comfortable with it. Can kinda relate, maybe maybe." She waves her fork around, somewhat lost in thought.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 06:20:55 AM: "It is weird... Huh?"

Yukino looked over at Hana.

"What's that mean? 'Can kinda relate'? Does my princess have someone in mind?" The big sister tried to settle in the casual conversation, playfully attempting to draw out whatever else the little one has on mind.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 25, 2015, 06:31:51 AM: "Weird as in you get all blushy touchy and all that stuff obviously. He uses Spectral Duke Dragon and Dragonic Overlord The End so he likes to restand after he hits or retires..." Hana thought aloud.

"As for me having someone in mind?.. Huh?" She was genuinely curious what that meant, though if that weird feeling that she usually feels was love then awk.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 06:35:01 AM: "Huh?" Yukino's mind didn't translate the meaning of mentioning Duke and Overlord.

"A-As in someone you like..." The queen meekly responded, embarrassed for not being clear and probably sounding stupid.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 25, 2015, 06:48:31 AM: She didn't understand that thing with Duke and Overlord. Yukino needs more training.

"Well someone I like, I mean... I haven't had any feelings for any guys at all especially because I've just been focusing on dancing and singing. Though, recently I've been having this weird feeling when I'm around Mi-hime.." Hana thought to herself. She couldn't quite put a finger on it. Maybe Hana needs more training as well.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 06:59:19 AM: Yukino had a good idea of the "weird feeling" Hana got with Miyuki, an even better idea if it's the same as hers with Haruka. It'd also explain them being together so much. Yugure wasn't sure on what more to say, however. Should she encourage Hana to try giving Miyuki these feelings like confessing? Should she hold them off just in case Miyuki doesn't feel the same way, or just wait for Miyuki? An answer was hard to give seeing as she doesn't really have one for Haruka other than trying to finally get at his lips once.

"Hmm..."

An inquisitive hum, thinking on how to go about this.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 25, 2015, 07:09:22 AM: "Nociel told me it's the same thing as you and Yukinee's bf, but I don't believe it." Hana had a sweat drop from the corner of her forehead, and she was even grabbing her cheeks, her face blushing a little. "From movies and stuff I watch, a girl or guy usually confesses to the person they like, but then I stop and think, what if the sins I confess to Mi-hime are far too much and she won't like anymore... wait, why do I even have to go to confession?" Hana shakes her head, dismayed and seemingly troubled.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 07:13:06 AM: "Why do you think Miyuki would stop liking you? Or why would you think the things you confess would be too much?" Yukino sat up a little more to lean back, but the hastened movements made the body aching return with some power. The woman quickly stopped halfway, groaning quietly. She looked back at her little sister: "If you like her the same way... then you just do. What you do with those feelings... I don't think Miyuki would turn her back on you."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 25, 2015, 07:28:07 AM: "Nee-san I think you're getting too old," she said, noticing her sister's movements. "Nah, well you just need to rest, maybe a treatment from mom-san or something." Hana thought about it for a little, maybe she should be the one asking a certain question that must be answered soon!

"So you like him that way too! When are you planning to confess yourself?" She leaned forward, asking enthusiastically.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 07:39:01 AM: Old? Maybe, but she was just malnourished. Then again, she felt brittle and weak like an old lady. Mom patching her up or something would be nice... but getting a lecture about her health didn't sound all too exciting either. The Gold Paladins have been giving plenty as it is. Yukino sort of wanted to stay here, gently gripping onto the blanket. Hana would probably mind... but it felt good to just be sisters again. Not tied to destiny or duty, but just family.

However, the question Hana just asked caught Yugure off guard. But not as much as it did when the princess suddenly leaned forward like a hungry gossip girl. A little scared squeaking noise came out of her mouth from reacting to the enthusiasm.

"U-Uh..." She stammered. "W-Well... I'm... not sure... I don't think I should do it while I'm like this, though..."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 25, 2015, 07:52:46 AM: "I see!"

Hana snapped her fingers and a butler walked in with 20 eggs, 9 boxes of orange juice, and a dog.

The dog was for Hana, the rest was for her sister. "You'll need to get fixed up a bit then. Does that mean that I need to fix myself up too? I mean Mi-hime is really cute... Dad always protects us from guys.... what if he doesn't like Mi-hime too." She panics a little .
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 08:03:51 AM: More eggs?! More juice?! Yugure didn't even put a dent in the massive egg feast Hana conjured up already! The woman began sweating nervously at the sight, never mind the dog. The girl really had no desire to eat still beyond the natural desire her body has to survive. She supposed eating enough to keep going for a couple days would work, if possible.

"Dad already likes Miyuki, you're worrying too much."

Ironic that phrase comes out of the queen's mouth.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 25, 2015, 10:20:35 AM: Haruka ended up spending the night on the couch in the living room of the house. Satoshi had completely gone unconscious in the guest room after Haruka patched him up and got him water.

He felt really bad about hitting him. Haruka didn't even feel the force of his punch. His fist was red and bruises and yet it was as if nothing happened.

Waking up, he goes to grab his daily dosage of caffeine. The kitchen was the first stop. After meeting with butler-san and talking about the doge for a bit, Haruka thanked him for the amazing brew once again, and sat down.

He planned to take it easy before visiting the Espoir sisters. No doubt they haven't seperated.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 25, 2015, 02:55:00 PM: Seph sat cross-legged on top of the couch Satoshi was laid out on. Only one person was taking care of him at this point, and it was his favorite servant. A cool rag, some cleanup, and vigilant protection of his living space, allowing only three people to see him ever. Truly a respectable fellow. Probably deserved a bit of a raise from Mr. Espoir that the Great Lion would never agree to, considering his intense dislike of the boys.

He stared down at his champion with a slight smile. While he was most certainly an idiot, he was still trying to make things work and bring back some of the most powerful leaders of Cray from their incarceration. Why would a simple farmboy do that if not for a brave, valiant purpose, dedicated to those he cared for the most? Seph leaned down and stroked his hair.

While in the meetings of the Council of Cray, he asked Amaterasu in private about the destinies of the Triad of Hope. While he was prepared for the worst, the CEO of Oracle Think Tank had instead met him with a warm smile:

"Oh, Arboros Dragon...your champion may not have to carry the world, but that does not mean that those who carry the world do not need carrying themselves. His 'third wheel' position is necessary to maintain balance. The Earth bicycle that is Yugure and the Seraphim...their balance is not as simple as they would like it to be. Therefore...a tricycle, I believe they call it? That is what is needed to keep the state of their world intact. Satoshi Kurosaki's destiny is not to be the leader, but to stand with the leader and help shape them to become that leader, through many hardships."

That had been a relief to hear. Even with his purpose in question, the Oracle of Cray still believed. That belief carried a huge amount of significance.

---

In the weight of his unconsciousness, Satoshi was lost in his thoughts. Well, he had been punched. Punched by one of his best friends, even if it turned out that friend had some kind of a violent being within him. He kind of deserved that, given how he had been recently, separated from their world that was in many ways a reality. Neu was so very wrong and had deceived him.

...But had she really? The older-than-she-looked woman had certainly used him to further her goals, but at the same time, was it wrong for Vanguard to be fun? Many people didn't know that what they were doing were skirmishes on Cray, but they loved playing and interacting with other people and their cards. So it was like they did know, but in a way that made Cray not seem war-torn. In fact, a lot of the skirmishes seemed more peaceful than malicious.

That was what he really wanted Yukino and Haruka to understand; that despite their despair, it was necessary to bond with these new avatars. What better way to do so than by having fun?

His Snow Flower and Blazing Sun...yeah, they had both lost something dear to them. Beings they could say were family. While he had bit it back, Satoshi did, in fact, know what it was like to lose family as part of your life. Being alone in the world...it was a form of death and rebirth. Yukino still had her sister and her father. Haruka still had his aunt and uncle. But he...he had no one to go back to or stay with or remain close with in terms of family. He had been banished from the farm until he came back with success. Being a "footstool"...wouldn't really count as success, despite what it paid. He couldn't see his parents again.

So loss of family...yeah, he could feel it 100%. But that's why he wanted to keep his current family, the Triad of Hope, so close. Through hardship, they had formed together and become the best of friends. The fact that they were currently heading in a direction of further separation...it killed him inside. To hear Yukino lie when her body language told nothing but the truth; to be punched by Haruka, even if it wasn't truly Haruka...

He shouldn't have come back to the mansion, even when the servant called. They would've taken care of her. Hana did so much for her and kept his efforts out of the picture, pushing the Triad of Hope apart even more. The littlest sister...did she feel the same way as the eldest?

The buildup of these thoughts was gruesome and painful, and he felt very alone and separated. A shadow of the world. Even if his destiny was to be some sort of glue for these two to stick together, it was very difficult. He'd rather be alone, like---

Satoshi's eyes fluttered open at his moment of realization. There was someone he hadn't spoken very much to since that day, two months ago, who was experiencing similar backlash to the Triad. A man who now wielded a clan once sealed by the Rift deep within Magallanica.

"Jellal Kisaragi," he said in a whisper, as the servant at the door, noticing he was awake, brought him water.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 25, 2015, 03:53:13 PM: Hana woke up early yet again, running a few miles around the manor's front yard, and doing her daily exercises. This was a foolproof exercise regiment, with every design, while harsh, helping very much in getting her into shape for dancing and singing. At first, Hana was unable to handle the tough workout, often giving in after the first section, but it was thanks to her great personal trainer that she was able to increase her endurance as well as her strength. Dad-san treated her like a princess until it came to physical fitness. When she started the exercises early on in middle school, dad-san would often run with her in order to push to do better. He sometimes got carried away and ran twenty-five miles before she could even complete one, but that inspired her to try harder anyways. Dad-san on the other hand was touched by her passion to be fit and cried tears of joy at the sight of having his little princess as an exercise partner. While he does not have as much time as he did before, he sometimes takes his spare time to do these morning routines with Hana and that's usually when it become a hundred times more grueling, but also a hundred times more fun.

After the workout, Hana took a quick shower and checked back up Yukinee who was still asleep in her room as it seems. "She really needs to fix her sleep schedule..." Hana said to herself, fixing the blanket on her sister as well as her hair. "Well I better go put out an order for food for when she wakes up..." She then headed out and quickly informed a worker. After that she went back into her room and sat in the very same chair that she did yesterday, thinking of their conversations.

"Nociel, do you have someone like a boyfriend on Cray?..."
"No..."
"Of course you don't."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 25, 2015, 05:54:00 PM: The coffee was, as usual, perfect. Haruka downed two cups and found the afternoon show up faster than he thought it would. He peeks into the door to notice Satoshi was finally awake, sitting on the bed he had left him. Haruka was somewhat hesitant to walk in. Instead, he turns off from the door and goes up to Hana's room, where Yukino was. His first intention was to visit Yukino and talk to her about...

Something.

However, what ended up happening was a bit different. Hana was sitting in a chair talking.

"Nociel, do you have someone like a boyfriend on Cray?..."
"No..."
"Of course you don't."

"Hoh... Pffft...!" Haruka covers his mouth almost laughing. Instead, he slowly nudges the door open and waves to Hana. He whispers, "Hey, mind if I come in?" His expression was easily described as amused. It was obvious Haruka had heard what Hana had just said to, who he believes to be Nociel.

"Also I don't think units date..." Haruka scratched his head, still poking his head through the somewhat open doorway.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 25, 2015, 06:02:49 PM: Hana from the corner her eye noticed someone signaling her to come to the door. Turns out it was Yukinee's bf, asking to enter. She went over to the door and opened it for him. There would be not trouble in him coming in, it wouldn't really disrupt Yukinee's sleep as long as they stayed in the other side of the room. Hana's room itself was split into two sections, one that looked like a living room with all her recreational stuff like a TV, and even a dog house for her dog. The other side was her bedroom and bath. She went up to the door and silently gestured Yukinee's bf to come in and invited him to sit on one of the couches.

"Well we just have to quiet yeah just so we don't wake up Yukinee. Anyways I'm pretty sure units date because that's how grade 0s are made." She takes a comb from a table and starts combing her hair, still wet from the shower she had just taken.

"Anyways, other than to watch my sister sleep, what brings you here?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 25, 2015, 06:11:51 PM: Haruka was going to make a retort to Hana's comment about watching Yukino sleep, but in all honesty if she wasn't awake and Hana wasn't there, he would probably would have gone and checked on her anyways.

"Hm? Oh, I was gonna talk to Yukino about- er..
....
.......
Something."

Haruka looked up, then back at Hana, then nodded promptly. This confirmed his answer. "Anyways, I'm 99% sure that's not how Grade 0's are made by the way... But there is that 1%." Haruka contemplated the idea for a minute...

Then shook his head because that was a completely asinine idea and was definitely not going to believe that units actually did that. While in theory it all made sense, he didn't want to believe. Not one bit.

"Your room is, uh, really big." Yukino's room was decently large too, similarly sized. However they were decorated somewhat differently. Maybe it was the way the rooms were organized that made the difference?

He lightly facepalmed, trying to get back on topic. "So, what made you so interested about dating? Did you think Nociel was stealing hearts or something?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 25, 2015, 06:18:27 PM: "I-Interest in dating?..." Hana was flustered by the way that that was said.

Maybe interest was the best word for it, but still something she didn't expect. Her interests used to only be in the performance world. She never paid attention anything other than that. Then again, Mi-hime is part of that world too, her singing-dancing partner in crime. Overall, Hana's interest began when Bermuda Triangle had disappeared for sure.

"Well it makes Yukinee happy, so I think it would be nice if she really did get more into it. The kind of feel kinda makes me happy as well I guess, so it isn't bad I think. At least, right now while I'm not fully invested in trying to be an idol, its something nice to think about. It makes my heart go doki doki... Also Nociel is a Love Machine Gun."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 25, 2015, 06:21:57 PM: "Hoh? Who's the lucky fella? Or maiden. I don't judge." Haruka put his hands up, showing he wasn't crossing his fingers. "Honest." He smiled, wondering just who she was interested in.

Neo? Err, he's a bit rambunctious. Also really nosy.

Satoshi- yeah, no.

... Jellal? Well, not out of the question, but still a long shot.

"So, who is it? I mean, if you don't mind my asking that is."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 25, 2015, 06:31:34 PM: Hana blushed at the question and started to sway back and forth. She sat down an started hugging her knees.

"Umm.. it's Mi-hime..." She muttered, very silently. She was kind of squealing a little, lowering her head down, due to the thoughts of Miyuki. She raised her head after a few moments now wondering if this was all he came for, hopefully not, so she asked him, her face still red and her voice randomly breaking up.

"S-so... why a-re you here exactly?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 25, 2015, 06:37:01 PM: "That's... that's nice." Haruka was actually rather happy she liked Miyuki. He had always thought they were very cute together, especially when they hugged or held hands. He never caught them often, but one time they were falling asleep on each other in the fight room, and Haruka found that adorable.

"O-Oh, me?" Haruka's face turned red a little. Then, it faded all so quickly. He wasn't embarrassed now that he thought about it. He took pride in this emotion at this point. If he stayed super embarrassed forever, it would make anything close to a relationship simply awkward.

"I, well, wanted to tell Yukino. That I want to be with her." Concise. While he had a lot of things to say, they were all things Hana already knew. She was her sister after all.

"She's just... " He bit his lip and looked back to Hana. "Amazing, y'know?" Haruka was twiddling his thumbs, now blushing again. He really was still anxious, but he was confident all the same.

"I was hoping she'd be awake so I could tell her. But, I don't actually know if now is a good time or..." His voice sort of trailed off, becoming slowly more and more nervous about the situation. Confidence dwindled fast.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 25, 2015, 06:47:34 PM: "A confession!" Hana screamed internally.

She saw his confidence go down though, and Yukinee was still asleep. Right now wasn't right, they should set a scene. Hana remembered that there's a really fancy restaurant that overlooks the forest trail. From there, is a view of the beautiful stream and open field that she and Mi-hime once spent time in. It was quite pricey for the average person, but no problem for the Espoirs. She enthusiastically hopped up and walked to her room's entrance.

"How about during a date later on tonight?" Hana suggested. She gestured for a worker to come in and she had him write down some specifics and details. She even took a large sum of cash from her wallet and casually handed it to him. It was enough to pay for any meal they could get there, as well as a tip if necessary. She turned to Haruka and assured him, "that's just leftover money from when I went to the amusement park last time so no worries."

She sat back down to the couch in front of Haruka and handed him a paper that another servant was working on that told him the specifics. "It's a really fancy restaurant that overlooks the forest area, it's basically around the entrance of the thing. I made a reservation for tonight just for the two of you guys and you guys are gonna get a really nice window seat with a cool view of the stream, romance under the moonlight and all that. You'll need a nice suit, and I don't think dad's would fit you, I mean you can ask one of the butlers for one. Sound good?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 25, 2015, 06:59:31 PM: He had no words. He simply cried a tear of joy and nodded, smile still on.

What did I do to deserve this blessing?

Haruka thought for a moment how quickly everything was falling into place. He was a bit too excited maybe, but that kind of happiness came with that sort of feeling.

"Thank you, Hana. Err, finding a suit shouldn't be that difficult..." He decided that Butler-san would be the one helping him pick one out. Haruka always admired his suit. Refined black from top to bottom with a white tie. He could change it up and use a grey button-up...

"Wait, what about you and Miyuki? Aren't you eventually gonna confess?... Or... are you waiting for her to confess to you?" Haruka pocketed his hands, eyebrow raised. While he knew Hana was currently trying to help him out, he was still interested in knowing how she fared in her quest for the maiden's heart. Or if she was said maiden, and was waiting for Miyuki instead.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 25, 2015, 07:15:05 PM: Upon his agreement, Hana nodded back. "I better get Yukinee a dress too...ummmm" she thought to herself as to where and how this could possibly be done. "Guess I'll have to look around or just ask when she wakes up..."

Hana then thought about confessing to Mi-hime. Certainly, she wanted to be the one to do it, but as for the time, she wasn't sure herself. When it comes to the place, Hana had so many in mind already. The thought of the event made her head feel light again, and made her body feel like she was flying again.

"I-I don't... know when but, I want to be the one to conf- ... confess to her..." Hana stuttered, "And... no problem."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 25, 2015, 07:27:45 PM: "Hmm, I see. So you want to make the first move?" Haruka smiled a little. Definitely cute.

He was definitely ecstatic until he remembered something. It was eerily important to him.

"Wait. What about the scarf?" He said, pointing to the one he was wearing now. He blinked. Wandering around the Espoir house without the scarf was one thing, he didn't hate showing his burns to his friends as long as they didn't constantly bring it up. But in public he felt as though they would draw too much attention and people would stare at him. This became a genuine concern very quickly.

"Err, I probably shouldn't wear it, should I?" He scratched his head. Once again, a slight decrease in confidence. Nothing to change the fact that Haruka wanted to make the confession. But, it was just quite difficult to consciously figure out how he wanted to say everything, how he was going to figure everything out afterwards, all while not being as comfortable as he usually is. And also,

How to tell Father Espoir. Oh boy. A shiver goes down Haruka's spine. Even Sera feels the cold grip of death slowly reaching towards him.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 08:50:14 PM: Yukino shot up, awaking in a cold sweat. The queen breathed heavily, nearly being sealed away again in the exact same nightmare. Every time she fell asleep, it felt like the chances of her getting locked grew higher and higher. Each time the space-distorting sphere would get closer and closer to her. Each time Ahmes and Yunos would get slower and slower, almost not reaching her in time. Whenever she blinked, she saw the sleeping faces of her comrades as they floated off, including those of Kagero. The slumbering Overlord, the comatose king, dreaming dogs, silent knights. A distorted voice that was almost demon-like kept trying to say something to her, and it came from that gravity-wielding monstrosity. A threat? A declaration?

Face held in hand, she didn't notice Hana and Haruka in the room for a good few minutes. Lost in her own fear.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 25, 2015, 09:04:30 PM: "So, should-" Right as Haruka was going on about making a point of his scarf and the mismatching of the suit to Hana, he notices Yukino move. At first it only seemed like she was moving in her sleep, but she had instead completely sat up, with an awful look on her face. She either saw ghosts just now, or that nightmare she told Haruka about had returned for another visit.

"Y-Yuki...? Hey, hey! Are you okay?" He turned to her and walked to the bedside, sitting at it's edge.

She obviously wasn't okay, considering she was breaking more than a sweat and the look on her face simply says "horrified." Haruka scoots over to her and takes one of her hands in his. This was one of Haruka's ways of helping Yukino calm down. Thing is, they haven't really seen each other much recently, since he had spent the night in her room.

"... The dream again?" He knew it was the dream. There would be almost no reason for her to freak out like that when she was sleeping so peacefully only a moment ago.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 09:31:30 PM: "It's trying to talk to me... It's trying to talk to me...!" Yukino held her head with the free hand, panicking. The hissing roars were enough, but the garbled mess of speech it was offering to the queen terrified her even more. "It's getting closer..." she continued, trembling. Haruka's hand almost didn't register to her sense of touch, and actually didn't for a few seconds. Once she recognized it, she stopped speaking, trying to calm her breathing. The free hand darted to Haruka's, clinging onto it like a lifeline, the queen gripped at it tightly. "Ah..." a light cry, feeling more relieved when seeing his face.

Finally, her breathing regulated, and her pulse slowed down.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 25, 2015, 09:52:21 PM: Haruka heard what she was saying. It wasn't that he particularly was dodging it either. But he felt as though Yukino wouldn't want to talk about it right now, and even if she was sort of up for talking about it, the conversation would most likely go south quickly. So instead, he took a different route.

"Yuki..." He said, warmly. Now that her senses had calmed down to a reasonable degree, I gripped her hand back. It was signifying "I'm here", in a way.

He then put his free hand over to her and ran it through her hair, slowly. His expression turned from worried to caring in a split second. Quite frankly, his inner workings typically mirrored his outside appearance. There wasn't really a way for him to lie to her, body language or actually speaking.

"Hey, sweetheart. Can you hear me?" He pulled his hand through several times, combing through her long, white locks with his fingers. Her hair was extraordinarily silky and smooth. He smiled at her.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 10:09:23 PM: "Y-Yes..." The recovering queen stammered, feeling more at ease with Haruka's hair roaming through her messy bed hair. Yukino proceeded to bury her face into his shoulder, fidgeting her fingers with their hands together, trying to interlock with his desperately. He was her connection to the reminder that she was alive - she wasn't locked away in a deep, dark space of isolation. That the night terror of her dreams didn't succeed in getting her.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 25, 2015, 10:21:41 PM: Haruka sighed with relief.

Bless.

"So. I was actually wondering, would you want to go out to dinner tonight?" Normally he would want to make sure he has her attention but she seems content just sort of resting on his shoulder. He was only cutting to the chase to make sure he didn't back out of asking now.

"I thought it would be nice to go out and do something for the evening. Just the two of us." He wanted to make sure that it was clear only her and Haruka were going to be there. Whether or not that would sway her decision, he had no idea. But it wasn't going to be any easier making his confession clear otherwise.

"What do you think?" He said this, finally allowing his fingers to slide in between hers, like puzzle pieces fitting together. She gripped his hand a bit tighter than he expected, but it didn't particularly bother him.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 10:50:34 PM: "O-Okay..." the queen accepted his date offer. Dindrane, Sleygal, Lop Ear, others, and even Garmore all began squealing and bouncing like giddy schoolgirls. Ezel bashed Garmore and Pellinore's faces in for acting like they're still in the knight academy. Honestly, Yukino didn't actually want more food, but a nice night with Haruka sounded great for her conscious. With how she was physically connected to him right now, she felt like she wasn't a decaying shell of a woman. This was her chance to help her beloved through his own mess as well, something she wanted to start on. Having a desire to help out all friends and sister, he... he was just a priority.

"Nn..." another gentle cry. If they were going out, she needed to get ready, but that would require breaking their current position, which was the last thing she wanted.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 25, 2015, 11:01:00 PM: Haruka remembered that he still needed to borrow a suit from the coffee-making butler best friend downstairs. But considering the way Yukino was clutching to Haruka, she didn't have the intention of letting go anytime soon. Normally he would have tried prying her off so they could get ready to go, but instead he plants a kiss on the top of her head, the messy bedhead not particularly bothering him either.

He just kind of wanted to stay like that too, but he already had the plans made and it was clear that backing out on them now would result in Haruka's failure to use Hana's gift to the greatest use. Guilt would eat him alive for days. But also, Yukino needed to be out. The house was where she always was recently, and there lied bad memories and lingering depression. Breaking out of the norm was a must.

And his confession. That was a big thing.

"Tell you what, I'll be back up in less than 20 minutes. We can go then, okay?" He brushed her hair a few more times, humming a light tune. He wasn't going to let go until it was Yukino's terms.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 25, 2015, 11:09:59 PM: "Jellal Kisaragi..."

Satoshi kept mumbling the man's name as he lumbered into the kitchen, gesturing for the butler that tended to make Haruka coffee to make him a cup. He needed something to dull his bandaged head from throbbing. Perhaps a buzz would help.

He sat with the mug and took a sip. Ah...much better. The bandages weren't really necessary, but the servants had taken extra precautions to make sure didn't suffer a massive concussion. Really, when he touched the spot sometimes, it just felt sore, as though it were bruised or scarred than an open wound.

He knew what he had to do today, but he had to be able to take care of himself first. He asked for the butler to fetch some clothes from his servant friend. The butler nodded, bowed, and walked off to make the request. Rubbing the spot a little more, he took another swig of coffee.

He wondered what his Snow Flower and Blazing Sun were up to.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 25, 2015, 11:44:36 PM: "Twenty minutes...?" No, no, that was far too long. Anything beyond two was too long, but she realized that she was going to have to be reasonable. Even so, she sort of just mindlessly clung onto him for an extra minute as he hummed. Her heart lightened up some from that forehead kiss, her panic almost entirely have dissolved. With a bit of a bratty, upset moan, she leaned back, getting off of him so they could prepare themselves.

"Twenty... I'm... going to be really mad if you're even a millisecond late."

She avoided eye-contact, blushing while looking off to the side, still having a hand tug at his arm.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 25, 2015, 11:57:11 PM: "Right then. Not even a millisecond." Haruka beamed, feeling ready for the evening. He waited for Yukino to let go of his arm and after a bit, she was left with no choice.

He darted down the halls, dashing about. He yelled out to the butler as he ran towards the kitchen. Despite his destination, the butler responded from a quarters down the hall. On the second floor.

"Hey, Hi. Yeah. I need your help. Could you let me wear one of your suits? I mean... Okay, I'm going on a date with Yukino, and I need to look-"

Before Haruka finished his explanation, the butler already had one prepared for the occasion. He knew that Haruka was eventually going to ask the question. It was a matter of time.

With a bow and a thank you, Haruka changed into the black suit, grey button up, ash vest and a red tie for color.

He darted up the stairs again to meet with Yukino. It had been 18 minutes already.

"On my way..." He whispered to himself as he started up the staircase.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 26, 2015, 12:14:26 AM: The butler returned with a very rugged set of clothes that reminded Satoshi of a biker. "Apologies, sir, today is servant laundry day. I hope this works for you on short notice."

The farmboy eyed it up and down. It was a pretty cool set of clothes, reminding him of those '60s American biker movies his father would have on the television when he was little. Some jeans, a t-shirt, and a long jacket. He scratched his chin. Was it a biker outfit, or an animated cartoon villain outfit? He couldn't decide, but he chuckled.

"S'fine. I like it, if I'm being honest." He accepted the clothes. "What took you so long, though?"

"Clothes for Mr. Nakahara. He and the eldest Miss Espoir have an outing planned tonight." The butler bowed once before getting himself a mug of coffee.

An "outing?" Satoshi snorted, then laughed a bit. "So they're going on a date finally. Good, that'll get them both to stop being so mopey around here and other places. They need a break from Cray. Leave it to me to take care of things in the meantime, I've been slackin'." He made a quick change of clothes and sat back down, sipping his coffee.

He thought a moment, then removed the bandage and checked the spot quickly. Just a bit of a bruise, no big deal. He kept them off and resumed enjoying his cup with the butler doing the same.

Damn the Espoirs had good coffee.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 26, 2015, 12:27:00 AM: Dad Espoir was going to kill a man.

Despite Yukino making him rush, she sure took her sweet time showering, picking out a dress, and then twice as long as deciding what kind of makeup to use. The queen found herself with rather... mixed feelings concerning a dress. Part of her wanted to go about this casually, but another part knew Haruka would do everything in his power to get himself looking fancy and expensive. Two things that neither of her best friends were, honestly. "Hmm..." Contemplating, she'd just look odd if she wasn't matching that expense. Then again, her normal attire cost about thrice whatever her date wears. Eventually, she settled on a light-yellow golden mix colored dress to match Gold Paladin. A thin one with a bit of sparkling at the torso, sporting a little teasing cleavage below a silver, diamond necklace.

"This is way too gaudy", Ezel offered his opinion.

"I'm not taking that from someone with your kind of hair."

"Do you know how long it took to get this glorious mane?! This didn't come with the Red Lion armor!"

"That only fuels the reason for me not to listen to you!"

Yugure and her guardian had a little fit with one another as she applied sword-shaped, golden earrings. With a sigh, she supposed she looked good enough. Haruka might have something to say, or maybe he'll keep being honest with how gaudy it really is in his head. Then again, this coloring was symbolic, and she didn't want to wear much else. ... Then she peeked at a red dress and white-sword earrings. Now she wanted to wear something else, so she spent a little bit longer putting it on with the new accessory... and wanted the yellow one back.

Then there was a snowy blue one she bought last year, one she never put on.

"Oh my god", Ezel and Garmore exclaimed. There was no winning with this woman's indecisiveness.

"Fine, the yellow one it is."

The woman tucked away her cellphone safely in her bra, then grabbed her deck case... Where was she going to put this? It could just get left behind, since tonight wasn't about fighting, but it just felt awkward not having them around. Especially the lion who's helping keep her light afloat. Maybe Haruka would be willing to hold onto it...

Despite saying she'd be upset if Haruka was late, she was about five minutes behind according to the phone's clock. An extra five spent on double checking everything later, the queen finally walked out of her room to go greet Haruka.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 26, 2015, 12:37:33 AM: "Millisecond late, huh..." Haruka stood out front of the door, awaiting Yukino. It took only a bit longer, so in the end he wasn't really all too agitated.

Especially when she exited the room and entered his view.

"W-Whoa.."

She's.

She's.

Gorgeous.

Haruka and Sera agree nearly simultaneously that the angel who just appeared in Haruka's field of view was none other than Yukino and she looked amazing. She looked like a golden sun, glowing over the horizon where the sea meets the sky.

If only Haruka could actually say that. Instead his eyes simply widen and another, "Wow..." Escapes his lips.

"You look great, Yukino. Like, really great." Haruka was already anxious about the tie he picked, and now he felt completely inferior to the celestial being in front of him right now. It was red, the tie anyways, due to it mostly being in commemoration for the color of Kagero. It even had a gold Dragon tie clip that Butler-san let him borrow.

"Well, are we ready to go then?" He extends his hand. Everytime before he has done this, he expected a handshake. This time, Haruka wants Yukino's hand clasped to his.

Here we go.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 26, 2015, 12:49:01 AM: Dad Espoir is going to kill a man harder. He stood up, and walked out of his office.

Yukino, admittedly, got giddy when she saw Haruka's jaw drop. Very happy that she impressed him, getting a dumbfounded "wow" out of the boy added to it. A blush and a beaming smile came from the Chosen Sword, doing a little twirl to further show off for him. "Thank you", she spoke, approaching him more closely. "You look pretty handsome yourself, giving father a run for his money back in his younger days". A sly grin, giving the boy a compliment that his good looks amazed her quite a bit. Using a free hand, the woman gave herself to this dashing gent, letting him be the vanguard of the evening. This was the longest Yukino had smiled in a long while.

"More than ready."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 26, 2015, 12:50:26 AM: "Yukinee and Yukinee's bf are getting prepared? Good..." Hana gave a warm smile to a butler along with a bow in order to dismiss him.

Tonight was the night in which the Cray Council would gather. The princess needed to keep her sister occupied in order to get the full attention of the Gold Paladin who have recently just returned to duty after yesterday's events. The gathering would mark a declaration of war through a pact, the true and formal beginning of The War of Liberation.

Hana looked in the mirror, her navy blue hair curled at the ends, tipped off with a tiara that lay upon her head, decorated by diamond stars. She wore a frilly pink dress, with linings going a cross the torso in the color of hot pink. Along the dress were hanging red hearts. She wore a matching necklace and earrings, both were gold carvings of penguins. All in all, she dressed to match Pacifica.

Behind the Espoir manor laid a structure which was seemingly untouched. No worker was every allowed inside. Dad-san and Mom-san used to visit the area often, but upon Yukino's birth, they stopped. This building only welcomed the Chosen Sword and eventually, the Princess of Cray. Hana had walked into this sanctuary numerous times already, almost at a daily basis, but today was different, as an important event was about to take place. She breathed deeply and prepared herself.

"Pacifica, Rio, Flute, Sedna, Pearle... Minnasan, help me be brave."

She opened the doors to the sanctuary and made her way inside.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 26, 2015, 12:57:05 AM: Haruka smiled at the compliment, returning the thanks. It was nice being told he was attractive by somebody like Yukino. It was warming to the heart.

Haruka made his way to the ground floor with Yukino at his side.

"So, we'll be heading out in just a second... What's that sound?"

Haruka. A painfully large man is going to crush your skull in about 20 or so seconds. Shall I take the lead?

Haruka stifled his sigh, turning to Yukino.

"Yukino... Your dad. I should probably talk to him, huh..?" Haruka was already in fear of the coming moments before the lion himself even showed.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 26, 2015, 01:31:26 AM: "Yeah, you should."

He was already here.

Yukino was wondering: how in the hell did Dad Espoir get to the first floor before them, when his office is farther away from the stairs than her room?! The queen was sort of in awe by this feat, but now scared for Haruka's life. It barely crossed her mind except for yesterday that Dad Espoir would likely destroy her crush and the very ground he walked on. The mountain of a man had his arms folded, a stern gaze - one filled with a hint of venom cast down at the two lovebirds. His daughter was unsure of what to say, seeing as they were caught in the act similar to two months ago. The main difference being they're both aware of what they're doing and it's one-hundred percent intentional.

Surprisingly, the man simply let out a defeated sigh.

"Is he what you want?"

"... Yes. That much I've decided on for myself, father."

"... Alright brat, listen up", Dad Espoir accepted the queen's decision. However, he wasn't doing so without imparting his fatherly warning. "You screw up, make her cry, let her down, or even slightly put her in harm's way... Well, I hope two months ago shows you what I'll do."

Wait, is that his approval? Yukino was confused, because that was still threatening to kill him.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 26, 2015, 01:37:05 AM: Without missing a beat, Haruka gulped at how quickly the man had appeared.

How the hell?

In the end, he had no intention to kill. Yet. With what was a blessing to Haruka, in some shape or form, he smiles.

"Yessir! I promise you she's in good hands." Haruka tried his best to not sound like a dork with his response. He goes to shake the giant's hand and be on with the evening.

Haruka's flame had brightened ever so slightly, knowing Yukino's father had even the slightest sliver of trust in him. Even with that trust, Haruka felt his life was still on the line now.

Oh boy.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 26, 2015, 01:43:15 AM: Satoshi heard Mr. Espoir giving Haruka a harsh talking to from outside the kitchen. He whistled.

"Don't you two go headin' out without lettin' me see you!" he yelled from inside, chuckling.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 26, 2015, 02:14:39 AM: Well... Haruka wasn't crushed, that's a plus.

Not only that, but Satoshi came to see them off. Good, her date would need a supporting wingman... from the house, because she was going to throw a hissy fit if someone intruded. Even at the Gold Paladins, who were at a meeting.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 26, 2015, 02:18:49 AM: Haruka hears the holler from the kitchen. He rolls his eyes and grins.

"One second!!" He looks at Yukino with a look if "I wish we could be out of here," as he takes her hand once more and leads her to the kitchen.

He sees a slightly less injured Satoshi. Haruka mentally noted he would have to apologize about the whole situation again later.

"So, how do we look? Please say good so we can go. The evening isn't getting any younger, mate."

Haruka fixes his tie with his free hand.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 26, 2015, 02:25:53 AM: Satoshi looked them both other and covered his mouth, trying not to laugh. Haruka all dressed up was really a sight to see, given how partial he was to his scarf. And contrary to her normal formal attire, the Ice Queen looked as though she had changed names to the Sunflower Queen with her golden dress. Incredibly uncharacteristic of them both.

But as he leaned back and made a picture shape with his hands, as though he were holding an old camera...he saw something he hadn't seen in forever cross his mind. His mother and father, on their first date. The picture his mother had scrapbooked from long ago. These two...they honestly looked...

He put his hands behind his head. "You both look great. Seeing as Mr. Espoir didn't kill you, I'd say more than great, even."

He moved his leg in a way similar to that of a dismissing wave. "Go on. Have a fun night. You're not the only one who wanted this to happen, after all." He winked. "I've been waitin' for you two lovebirds to get together. After all, how does a flower bloom without sunlight?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 26, 2015, 04:50:34 AM: "Tired.."

It seems like Yukinee and Yukinee's bf have yet to have returned from their outing by the time Hana had finished the meeting. Between Garmore and Ezel's constant bickering, Juggernaut Maximum's constant screaming, Hell Spider's strange "Neo Nectar" drug deals, Daiyusha's constant preaching of justice, Amon's power speeches, and Mr. Invicible's endless laughter, was Hana, the princess, and the princess was just done. It was a fun and eventful meet, sure things got done, but no one would ever guess that Cray's leaders act so childish. Hana as one of them also fits the bill, childish.

She had changed out her dress and is now in really neat pair of egg pajamas, pajamas with eggs printed on them. Hana wondered how it was going, really and how her sister was doing overall. She hoped for their happiness and hoped that the confession was successful. While her sister was out, she was fulfilling her duty. "Chosen Sword...huh," Hana sighed, in hopes that her sister would go home from this date, no longer feeling down or pathetic because now she is needed to fight in the War of Liberation. But somehow, that wasn't just it. She felt that there was more than just that.

The feeling of jealousy had overcome her again. Hana laid on her bed and cried and cried. She set her alarm to go off again for the early morning in order to force herself to wake and do her usual exercises. She dipped her head into her pillow and cried and cried again. Tears that no one would ever see. Raised to fulfill her duty, that was the Chosen Sword. Raised to live a normal life, that was Hana. Somehow, The Chosen Sword was the one who went on a date while Hana was the one who had to work. She set it up herself, but of course she still felt regret, and one cannot forget, the raging emotion of jealousy. "Why the hell does it have to be me? Why is it that the only time our roles are switched, I get the shorter end of the stick!?" She screamed into her pillow. Eventually, she just drifted into sleep, with tears still in her eyes.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 26, 2015, 03:48:22 PM: Upon waking up, Hana washed her face and her eyes, still having evidence of the near emotional break down that she had prior to sleeping. She go dressed in her exercise clothes, tied up her hair, and walked out her room. The butler that she had sent to go disguise himself and work among the restaurant's waiters and waitresses returned to her with news of the date that she had set for them.

"It was a success, Haruka was able to confess to them before the food was even served but this was also due to some issues..." the butler went from excitement to regret in just one statement.
"What issues?" Hana asked.
"A certain man in the name of Cero was causing a commotion in the restaurant, and using his money to prioritize the service on himself. Eventually he challenged Mistress Yukino to a cardfight in which he was the victor, offering nothing harsh words after. He did say something along the lines of "lending a helping hand," though with the way he did things.." The Butler was interuppted.
"Yes, I know him, but I'm glad that their date went well afterwards yes?"
"Yes it did madam." The Butler bowed.
"Arigatou." She smiled at him and bowed, signaling that he may take his leave.

Affinity:
Cero: -5
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 26, 2015, 04:12:24 PM: Despair at the Liberation's flag been torn asunder.

Yukino woke up, finally making sense of some of the garbled speech from the cyber horror. Though in another cold sweat, she was violently panicking as usual. Perhaps she was getting used to the nightmare. The queen looked around for Haruka, but he wasn't in her room. If he was, she'd have clung onto him again like yesterday. The thought of her beloved kept her sane - he was still her lifeline, a reminder that she was here and not sealed away. Nearly tumbling out of bed, getting ready for the day came next. Getting back to sleep would prove incredibly difficult, as judged by laying there for thirty minutes to no avail.

Honestly, the image of how to proceed was... blank. Haruka brought back happiness that was desperately needed, but it didn't solve the overall problem, nor cure heart of the parasite.

Hearing about a formal start to the War of Liberation only further unsettled the queen. Now was the time to focus, however, if she was going to assist in saving Ahmes and Yunos. Ezel steeled himself to fulfill his "promise" to her and that this act came before the rescue of the heroes. While that was relieving, it, again, did not solve the overall turmoil in heart.

"Ugh", an irate grunt after showering. Legwork was next, as planned yesterday before passing out from hunger.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 27, 2015, 04:12:41 AM: Hana made her way back home, looking down at the sidewalk. She didn’t pay much attention to where she was going, but it was definitely the right direction to get back into the manor. A few more steps until she had reached the game, she ended up bumping into someone due to not being wary of her surroundings.

“S-sorry…” She quickly turned and looked up to see who it was and send her earnest apologies.
“No, the fault is mine, Princess,” Neu said with a smile, petting her head.
“Youre…” She suddenly snapped out of her trance in disbelief..
“Yup, America’s National Champion, and I know that you’re Japan’s, Princess!” Neu let out a laugh.

Hana hopped back, more awake due to the shock. It was her, the one who sealed the clans, Neu. She had mixed emotions, all of them flowing into her. All of them caused her to become indecisive, she became frozen.

“What’s the problem? Looks like you’ve seen a ghost?” Neu shrugged and walked towards her again.
“Where are they?” Hana managed to ask the words, her body shaking. The question was enough to stop Neu in her tracks.
“The Bermuda Triangle? If you want a nice reunion we can play a game sure.” Neu offered, taking a deck out of her purse, the one labeled “Hana Isabella Espoir.”

If it’s really true that Neu had the sealed clans, Hana would be able to talk to them. She had no reason to reject. Even though they were on the other side, Hana could still tell them her apologizes and even greet them, this gave her lots of hope. She didn’t agree to a cardfight, no, that was the last thing she actually needed at this moment. She saw it as a chance to talk to Bermuda Triangle, that’s what she was agreeing to.

“O-of course…” Hana agreed, with a bittersweet feeling in her heart. Nonetheless, she still looked forward to talking to them.

“Stand up, Vanguard!” Neu exclaimed.
“Arise, my Power of Hope!” Hana followed up.
“Hope Child, Turiel!”
“Bermuda Cadet, Wendell”

Her eyes widened, and she cried tears of joy, it was really her. She saw it as an image, the physical manifestation of the unit, the card was in front of her, it really was Wendell. The rest of them were there too, she had to greet them, ask them how they’re feeling, anything. Just about any conversation would make her happy. She let out a smile, even a wave, her enthusiasm seemingly having returned
“Wendell-chan! How are you! I missed you!” She cried tears of joy.
“I ride, Sedna, Wendell moves back.” Neu stated as she continued with her turn, “Your go.”
“Right.” Hana wondered why Wendell was silent, but it was her turn so she had to focus and pay attention to that later, “I’ll ride Battle Cupid, Nociel, and she attacks Sedna being boosted by Hope Child Turiel!”
“I’ll guard!”

That was the only time Hana launched an attack.

Turn after turn, she tried to talk to them.
“Rio-chan! Aqua-chan! Why is Wendell being silent? Did you guys do anything mean to her? Haha I’ll get you guys out soon! I promise!!” She laughed.
“Who the heck are you talking to, Princess?”.Neu asked, “Wait you’re not going to attack at all?”
“Why are you guys being quiet? Do you guys hate me? Look, I’m sorry.” She apologized to them, completely ignoring her opponent. Her enthusiasm was now starting to vanish.

The situation didn’t change whatsoever.

“I ride, Top Idol, Pacifica!”
That’s when it hit her the hardest. “Pacifica-chan why are the rest them not talking to me? I know you can hear me right? No hard feelings??” She asked, her voice now starting to break apart.
“Not attacking again? Man this is not funnn!”
“I don’t want to fight them!” Hana started to cry, “Pacifica-chan can you hear me?! Please I know I messed up with you guys but… It really hurts… why are you all ignoring me?...”
“They’re just cards, Princess, dang you really look like a psycho right now just calm down, here I even got a handkerchief here for you. Plus this isn’t even really a fight, come on just have fun, this is Vanguard and Vanguard is fun!.” Upon saying this, Neu offered her a handkerchief with a fish printed on it.
Right, Vanguard was fun, that’s why she played and got to know the Bermuda Triangle. But his wasn’t fun at all, but even so, she tried.“Shamsiel att-...” She couldn’t do it, she didn’t want to do anything to hurt them. “I’ll end my turn.”
“Man… I kinda feel bad. Pacifica. Attack.”
“No...guard…” The game ended easily, with Neu winning as Hana wasn’t even fighting back. Neu put away her deck and checked on her opponent, “You sure you alright? Well I mean I guess you’re almost home and it is getting late so I gotta dip. Uh, you can keep the handkerchief.” Neu didn’t understand the bond between units whatsoever, she actually thought Hana was crying for no reason, that she was just crazy, trying to talk to cards. She just found it ridiculous. Somehow at the same time, Neu felt pride, the princess who had the title Japan’s National Champion, despite the circumstances, has been reduced to nearly nothing, another one toppled over. It was satisfying for her.

Hana picked up her cards without saying a word. She made her way back into the manor.

She laid her Angel Feather deck on the table in her room, right next to her tiara. She was quiet, still crying. Suddenly there was knock on her door.

“Mistress Hana, just a reminder, you have to attend a meeting for the council soon.” A worker reminded her.

She wasn’t in the mood to go. She didn’t want to go. The memory of how they wouldn’t speak to her kept playing again and again on her head. All they did was try to hurt her and attack her. No matter what she said and tried, even Pacifica, just ignored her. She was tired of being princess and tired of force feeding herself the same routine, pretending as if her dream still existed. It was all meaningless without them.

“I don’t want to go…” She said, almost just breathing the words out, choking on her own tears now. “No! Don’t make me go!”
“Hana-chan, you have to go it’s your duty.” Nociel informed her, being cautious.
“Stop! I don’t want to be the princess anymore, not like this! I hate this, I hate everything!”
“Hana-ch…”
“Shut up! Stop calling me that!” She slapped the cards off of her table, causing them to spread all across the floor. Hana’s tears now flowed more intensely.
“Hana-chan what’s wrong? We’re here for you, we’ll always be here for you..” Nociel said in a caring and tender voice.

The final words of Bermuda Triangle played in her mind.
“The Bermuda Triangle will always be here for you Hana-chan!”

“Enough! Thats an order! I command you to shut the hell up!” Hana yelled. .
“Hana-ch...” Nociel was interrupted.
“I told you to stop calling me that! Stop trying to replace them, you aren’t them, you’ll ever be them! Ever! So stop it! Just be quiet!” She stepped on the cards and kicked and screamed, she could no longer control herself.
“You said we bonded… so….”
“I quit, I quit being the princess, I quit being national champion, I quit Vanguard. I just want my normal life back, I just want them back. I want my sister back. I want my dreams back….” She kept saying it over and over, a helpless wish.
“Hana-chan…”
“Go to hell.” Hana stood up and took tiara. She threw it onto the ground, causing it to shatter into pieces.

Hana stepped on the cards and kicked them again. Eventually, she locked her room and left them as they were, all on the ground with fragments of her tiara broken along with them. Workers approached her, all worried at her state. For the time being, Hana will be spending time with her mother abroad who is on a business trip. She made sure that the living arrangements with her sister were finished. On her request, she asked that no workers or anyone would ever talk or mention Vanguard around her. The only time that it may be so is when she is when it is time to join the chosen warriors in unlocking the seal. Until then, she didn’t want to hear about it. Not a single word.

LAST STARDUST (http://hhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZvbBG2RvZkE)
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 27, 2015, 12:05:39 PM: Miyuki walked to the mansion, with Haruka following behind her. She hid her apprehension by talking to Haruka. 'How much coffeee have you had recently? Or ice-cream?' Random questions. They made their way to the gate. 'Oh yeah, I didn't text to see if Hana was in because I wanted to suprise her' she said to Haruka.

'Guess I should check'. Calling out to a nearby worker, she asked 'Is Hana in right now?'
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 27, 2015, 12:19:58 PM: "I've had 7 cups in the past... Small period of time."

Haruka stopped at the ice cream bit, considering he has had a ridiculous amount of sweets in the past week anyways.

As Miyuki called to check up for Hana, Haruka tries to read into Miyuki a little.

"So... Whats up with all the questions recently? You haven't stopped since we had started our walk over here."

He wanted to make sure Miyuki was okay. With everyone seemingly falling into a rut recently, he took a bit of the burden himself to check on everybody. Maybe listen to them, if they wanted to vent.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 27, 2015, 05:00:33 PM: For some reason the worked didn't answer instantly. He went inside instead, to check perhaps? Shrugging, she continued to talk to Haruka. 'Oh you know, just haven't seen you in a bit, so I had some questions. In fact I've been meaning to ask you this as well, what's your phone number? Just thought it'd be easier to contact you if needed.' Man she really felt like Haruka was doing some psychiatric analysis or something.

The worker returned. All he said was 'Hana is not in'. Miyuki thought for a second, then spoke. 'Do you have any idea where she is, or when she might be back? The worker looked uncomfortable, but replied. 'Not for a while I'd assume, she jut left to go visit her mother, who is abroad. She didn't specify an exact time of return.

Miyuki froze at that. Hana wasn't even in the city anymore? She wanted to ask why, to scream why, but she felt that she already knew. 'I must have failed'. Considering that Hana had been very busy recently, and hadn't told her anything about this, it didn't seem like this was planned. It seemed more like she was running away. It would be so easy to blame something else, to direct it elsewhere, but Miyuki felt deep down, that it was her fault. How could it NOT be her fault.

'I failed didn't I.' Of course she had failed, as a friend. Hana had probably been under even greater pressure then she'd realised, and yet she had ignored her, trying to give her 'time'. And if it was 'just left' as well, that means she could have possibly prevented it.

Trying to overcome the feeling of failure, she checked with the worker again. 'Did Hana say anything in particular before she left?'
'She forbade us to talk about vanguard in front of her, and told us that she quit.'
She quit? Quit what exactly? Vanguard? Or something else. A ton of questions rose up inside her, but they were still washed away by guilt. 'I could have done something as her friend, but I failed'. She wasn't sure if she'd said that line out-loud or not, she wasn't even fully aware what her body was doing.'T-thanks for telling me this' she told the worker. She was anything but thankful.

She wasn't sure what happened next. It was just a blur. All she could think about was Hana, remember how she'd been there for her. She felt that she'd started moving, and realised that she'd ended up in a sprint.

'Haruka's still at the mansion' a small part of her brain said. 'You shouldn't just leave him there'. However, her body refused to listen. It just continued to run, and she lost track of time. 'I failed.' She repeated this phrase in her mind, until she found herself in the forest. She could vaguely feel how out of breath she was, and sat down.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on August 27, 2015, 06:04:13 PM: Daisy (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zovv-4yn7L0)

What.

What had just happened...

"Mi...Miyuk-i?... Miyuki!!!!!" He turned around and yelled for her. He yelled and yelled and even chased her down for a bit. But nothing happened. She was gone.

Hana had..... left?

"What... the hell, man.." Pounding his fist into the ground, he bit his into his lip to keep from yelling anymore. He slumped against a tree, looking at his phone for a moment. He felt hell in his throat and wanted to just fix it. Everything was falling apart from the seams, and nobody could catch the pieces. There was no single person Haruka knew that could fix any of this.

Miyuki is shattered by the sudden disappearance of her closest friend.

Yukino won't want to hear any of this, either. She'll shell up and close herself off too...

Satoshi? I guess he's not all too affected by Hana's disappearance. The two weren't particularly close, but it was still worth notifying him as well assuming the time presented itself.

Haruka was desperately grabbing at straws and shooting in the dark for a way to make things right. But nothing in his head worked out. He sat in the woods by the estate, for a good couple of hours just staring.

"H-Hey... this isn't your fault." Vortimer was never much of a comforting sort of guy, but this was a chance at it.

"I guess not. It's still-"

"Unfair. I know. There's a lot of things that are unfair."

With that remark, Haruka sucked in air raggedly, suspending the oxygen so he wouldn't break down into tears a second time. Around this time he'd start rampaging again. He'd be pissed and say awful things and become a mess for the day, maybe longer. But he wasn't going to do that today.

If they had any hope of recovering the clans, and restoring the bonds that are simply shattering at a breath, it all started with being ready. No doubt in his mind, Haruka realized he can no longer rely on his friends to carry the weight. He was going to do this himself if he really had to. Of course there was no way he would accomplish this all on his own, no way in hell.

But he'd never forgive himself if he didn't try.

Hana, Yukino, Satoshi, Miyuki, Jellal, Ighanna, and Neo. These are the people Haruka has relied on to some degree in the past months. And they weren't going to be able to keep covering for Haruka when he couldn't be strong-

Strength? To hell with strength. This game was never about strength in the first place. Where were the good times? Where were the fun memories? The competitive blaze in everybodies' eyes?

"Why does it feel like all this game does is make people sad anymore...?" Haruka's threw his words to the wind with the crisp golden leaves.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 28, 2015, 12:48:56 AM: Satoshi walked up to the gate, ringing the bell. Today, he had realized himself in many ways, but his work for the day wasn't quite over.

"Mr. Kurosaki." The servants who normally operate the gate appeared on the screen. "Both of the Miss Espoirs aren't available at the moment."

He shook his head. "I'm not here to see them today. I'm here for a different reason." He held up his deckbox. "I'm here to speak to the man of the house about some important matters, if you wouldn't mind letting him know. If he asks what that purpose is..."

He thought back to the forest, to the place Yukino mentioned to him in passing.

"Tell him I want to know more about the Realm of the Gods."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 28, 2015, 12:54:24 AM: "Nothing to know about it", Dad Espoir walked by, returning to his home as the farm boy was at the door. "It's a place where Cray's divinity resides. You can compare it to Valhalla."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 28, 2015, 12:59:03 AM: "Cray's Valhalla..."

Satoshi chuckled a bit. "Nothing to know about it? Actually, I'd like to ask the impossible, Mr. Espoir."

His look turned from jovial to serious. "I'd like to ask how to reach Valhalla."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 28, 2015, 01:00:37 AM: "Simple. Become a Vanguard Unit and obtain godhood", he spoke in a casual, sarcastic tone. Taking a sip of his coffee as the doors opened for him to go inside.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 28, 2015, 01:03:30 AM: "And one would do that how?" Satoshi followed him. There was a reason he was pestering the old man about this, and it had everything to do with his daughters. He hoped he realized this.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 28, 2015, 01:09:42 AM: "If it was as simple as telling you how to do it, I wouldn't have responded with sarcasm", the man answered, ordering servants to prepare a meal for himself and his guest. Handing the empty mug to a butler, the lion turned to Satoshi with a questioning, yet still stern look. The farm boy's insanity would be admired of this was something that was less of an impossible feat. Asking how to become a celestial being for another planet was like asking how to survive being on fire for the rest of your life.

"There's no actual details on how to become a being of Cray, let alone obtaining divine prowess there. The closest people would be my daughters. Hana can transfer her image over to Cray to communicate and reside with the residents. Yukino is a Blaster, but her power was only for a few moments."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 28, 2015, 01:19:23 AM: Satoshi nodded, sitting at the table across from Mr. Espoir. "I apologize if I'm asking something impossible, sir. I'm honestly in a bit of dire straits to try and help your daughters any way I can."

He stared at the Lion's figure with his calm, green eyes, still unchanged from his fight with Noah. "It may be stupid of me, but as Yukino's Royal Guard, I want to be able to do something for her, and Hana, even if it involves pushing myself past my normal limits. Haruka, too." He gave a slight smile. "They're all my companions, people who've gotten me to realize why I play Vanguard and fight to unseal the clans. If I could...I'd turn myself ethereal and go to the Realm of the Gods and stay there, just so they could have a chance to smile and fulfill their destinies again."

He took a sip of a mug the butler placed down for him. Oh, hey, this was that coffee Haruka enjoyed so much. Apparently it was a shared favorite amongst the gents of the Espoir manor.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 28, 2015, 01:33:50 AM: "I already knew that was your reason. However, if one of us could become God, I'd have done it myself."

In this situation and the ordeal of two months' past, Father Espoir stayed out of affairs. At least, he stayed out of the way in their battles. However, he was still their loving parent, and this statement proved that. If this man could become a deity in order to ensure his daughters and wife happiness, he would've done so long ago.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 28, 2015, 01:44:55 AM: "I understand..." Satoshi stared at his mug. "Even so...is there really nothing that can be done?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 28, 2015, 01:54:16 AM: "The only thing to do is end this war as fast as it started", Dad Espoir walked into a small, cozy living room-like area. Taking a seat in his favorite chair, second to his office chair, he continued. "Yukino and Hana lost their happiness when they lost their clans. They can bond with Gold Paladin and Angel Feather, but they were never meant to be replacements. This empty hole for the both of them resulted in a downward spiral that split them apart from each other and Vanguard as a whole."

Despite explaining his own children's suffering, his tone remained calm. Each time he gave a sigh to transition the next topic of their conversations, a hint of his impatience unmasked itself briefly. He believed in them to break out of karma's cycle - freeing themselves from their own misery. Yet, at the same time, he couldn't stand it himself. He missed the livelihood of the Espoir Manor. These brats who kept coming over, hearing the girls giggle, seeing them smile again...

Life is rough for the lion too.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 28, 2015, 01:57:01 AM: End the war as fast as it started...

"How do you propose we do that?" Satoshi sipped some coffee. "Every time I think I have an answer to Neu Edelweiss' approach to Vanguard, I'm mistaken."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 28, 2015, 02:01:08 AM: "Her Vanguard isn't what you should be challenging", the lion spoke. "The just idealism of breaking the shackles of the strong, leaning more toward the entertainment of the game, the sacrifice of few for the many... Morally, this is how everyone's Vanguard should be. It's a game where people are happy, and shouldn't be oppressed by people who just happen to be better."

However, he wasn't finished yet.

"The will of the few is the answer. This war isn't for anyone else but for those we've lost. At least, that's how Cray's going about it while others like Amon and Megacolony's criminal base focus on themselves. You all simply need to uplift your Vanguard to get back what you lost."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 28, 2015, 02:16:55 AM: "The will of the few..." Satoshi closed his eyes and thought this over. The four clans that were sealed...all of them would want Vanguard to be as happy as Neu had described. But sealing them away had been anything but. Even so...

"So what you're saying is that the War of Liberation...is to free those friends, because those friends would also want the world to be happy playing Vanguard?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 28, 2015, 02:19:31 AM: "I can't tell you what your own collective will is", he spoke as the butler came in with two seafood dishes for the host and guest. "You all have to tell each other."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on August 28, 2015, 02:26:00 AM: "Tell each other..."

Now it sort of made sense. Since Satoshi had recently understood what Vanguard meant to him and why he kept at it...that sort of will needed to come out of the rest of the Triad. Perhaps even Hana, too. And that would be quite the challenge.

He took a bite of what he guessed correctly to be swordfish. A culinary gift, but a surprisingly generous one of the Lion, considering who he was sharing a meal with tonight. Or maybe he ate this sort of thing all the time and it was commonplace. He didn't really have the guts to poke at Mr. Espoir's daily routine, despite his renewed interest in the old man.

He wanted to help his daughters too, even if he couldn't do so directly in the manner he would have liked. The farmboy smiled. He was a good father.

"Sir, leave it to me. I know I'm not exactly your level of strength, but acting for you, to help your daughters...I'd like to do that if I can."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 28, 2015, 05:37:44 AM: She'd ended up making it to the Espoir Mansion before almost collapsing. Her house was still a bit of a walk away, so she decided to try and sleep in the Mansion. Thankfully the workers let her in without a word, and guided her to a room. She wasn't sure if she was tired, but she did need to lie down in a warm room.

She then recieved a text. She quickly opened it, and read it. "Hey Mi-hime, how have you been? Sorry for leaving in such a short notice. ~ <3 BELLA". She just stared at it for a second, unsure of how to reply. The guilt rose up in her once again, and she couldn't keep it down. Still attempting to hold back tears, she slowly replied.

'I've been alright? Did something happen to cause you to leave? Sorry.' She wanted to say more, but that was all she managed. 'I can't worry Hana' she thought. 'I failed her in the first place, worrying her now would be even worse'. Shivering still slightly, she replied.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 28, 2015, 05:54:48 AM: "About what happened, it was bad, but I'll try to move on from it. Yeah! I hope you don't feel to bad. I actually really miss you because we already haven't seen each other in awhile even before I left. We should go on that date when I come back! ~ <3 BELLA"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 28, 2015, 06:09:36 AM: She couldn't keep them back anymore. Despite her wishes, tears rolled down her face. She wasn't even fully sure why, just upon reading Hana's text, she had burst into tears. All the collective worry, guilt, fear, and other emotions just exploded at the same time. Relief that Hana was possibly alright and contacting her, guilt, loss, everything just hit at once. With shaking hands, she tried to respond to Hana's text.

'Alright, I hope you are okay! I'll be fine in a bit, don't worry. Come back soon! And of course we can go on that date, just let me know when.'

Again she couldn't fully express how she was feeling, but it was fine. She wasn't sure she wanted anyone to see her in this state anyway. Hana's words had an effect on her however, at least when she read them her guilt was forgotten, if only for a bit. With the message sent she continued to cry, muffling her sobs into the pillow. 'The last few days were really too much I guess'.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 28, 2015, 11:23:36 AM: "If you ever need to stay over at the manor, feel free to. Also, I'm in Malaysia right now with my mom. We are heading over to Sweden next, do you want anything? Also tell Yukinee's bf and New Thirst-kun I said hi. ~ <3 BELLA"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 28, 2015, 02:28:51 PM: After a decent length of sleep, she managed to get up. She felt slightly empty after yesterday, and her back hurt from her time in the forest. 'I'm a mess' she told herself as she looked in the mirror. It was obvious to anyone that she'd been crying, and her hair was a mess as well. She decided to check her phone again, and saw another text from Hana. She read through it, and smiled despite the pain in her heart.

Wow, Malaysia? Have fun! Nah, there is nothing I want from Sweden, it's fineee. And I'm actually staying at the manor right now, I might stay here for a bit longer though. Say hi to Mrs. Espoir for me as well, I'll let the bf and thirst know.

With that sent, she walked slowly out of her room, towards the kitchen. 'Might as well see if I can get anything to eat' she thought.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 29, 2015, 12:17:44 AM: "Oh, you are? Ok well remind Dad-san to bathe doge. Mom-san says hiiiii. Feeeeeel betttterrrrrr. ~ <3 BELLA"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 29, 2015, 01:39:59 AM: Miyuki hadn't done much after waking up. She ate, and then went back to sleep for another rest. She'd heard a bit of noise outside, a few hours ago, and briefly wondered what it was, but was too exhausted to fin out what was going on. Time just passed, without her doing much. 'I should try to do something tomorrow at least' she thought. Doing nothing today was alright, seeing as she'd been out of it, but it wasn't something she wanted to become a habit.

Her phone buzzed, signalling a message. She quickly read through it, and smiled.

'I'll remind him in a bit sure. Don't worry about me, just enjoy yourself!'

Telling her to just flat out feel better wasn't going to fix how she felt, but it did help slightly. Sighing, she lay back down on the bed, briefly wondering what the noise from beforehand had been about.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 29, 2015, 01:42:26 AM: "Nope, Nope. I'm going to worry about you. I worry about you a lot. You're my bestest bestest pal and also yeah other stuff. ~ <3 BELLA"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Crystalia on August 29, 2015, 10:54:09 AM: She had drifted off to sleep again, without realising it. Now that she was awake again, she checked her phone, and saw another text from Hana. 'She's determined to worry about me huh' she thought. 'Even though I don't deserve it'. She did feel slightly better today though, at least physically.

'Okayy~ Let me know some time how your travels are! Make sure you have fun though, I promise to be fine until you come back.'

With that sent, she lay back on the bed and closed her eyes yet again. 'I'll make sure to go out later today though, can't spend too long just sitting around'. Plus it'd possibly take her mind off of her failure.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 29, 2015, 04:07:32 PM: After yesterday's events, Father Espoir had called upon Hana and his wife from abroad and had asked them if they could make a detour or at least, make room in their schedule to visit home for Yukino's sake. He also ordered more eggs due to the fact that with the full family assembled at home, an egg shortage is one of the worst things that could happen.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 29, 2015, 04:26:24 PM: Yugure finally returned home, surprising employees at the gate. Though they greeted her back, she stated she doesn't have the time and needs to get inside. They didn't waste a moment, swinging the doors open for her to rush inside. Out of breath, she took a seat on the floor, leaning against a wall. Panting and sweating, she was now accepting consequences of running full speed of the distance between the manor and the construction site. This wasn't something she planned on learning about again.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 29, 2015, 07:26:08 PM: During the long travels, Hana had told Mom-san about what had happened that had caused her such emotional turmoil. Of course, most of what Hana told was about her dilemma with having Angel Feather rather than her Bermuda Triangle. Mother Espoir was a tall and beautiful woman who didn't look a day older than her daughters, well, Yukino at least. She stood tall and proud, and she wore circular thin-frame glasses which coated her chilling blue eyes. Her hair shining crimson hair was always tied, to a bun, and she would always be wearing her white doctor's coat for work. She could be what is described as a workaholic. Nonetheless, if it came to her daughters, she would try her hardest to make time in order to help them. Despite marrying into the Espoir name, she was already deeply connected to that of Cray. Coming from a long line of medical professionals, her family created a very close bond with the Angel Feather clan on Cray, and through the development, the family ended up gaining other traits such as a power image, and a limit ability to speak to certain Angel Feather units. Mom Espoir always carried around and spoke to her avatar card, Chief Nurse, Shamsiel, which is also a card said to be what best describes her. By the time Hana told her of the problems, she already knew, but she listened to her daughter to let her get the feelings out.

"They aren't them. Mom I know that to you... you love Angel Feather, but I just can't look at them like that." Hana looked down, in guilt and shame. She wanted to talk to her mom about this, but at the same time she mistreated the Angel Feather clan. No one probably loves Angel Feather more in the world except for Mother Espoir.

The Chief Nurse leaned over to her daughter and put a hand on her shoulder and kissed her forehead. She gave her a comforting hug. She wanted to let her know without words that she's her mother and that she understands why she did what she did. "Hana, if another clan were to suddenly come to me, basically, as a replacement to Angel Feather, I may feel the same. Even worse." She adjusted her glasses and looked at the deck in her hand, her avatar card on the top of the stack, facing her.

"I feel guilty, I really do. I want to make it up to them."

"I gave Angel Feather to you... at least, that's what I remember. When Yukino was born, from the moment I saw her, I looked her straight in the eyes, and saw it, a lion. "My first baby girl is basically a female version of my husband!" I cried. While you really reminded me of me, my sister, my dad and grandma. Yukino took after your lion of a dad, and you took after me, so I gave you the deck. But based on what Shamsiel tells me, that wasn't the case in the world that you remember. Even so. Idols smile to make their audience smile and feel better. Angel Feather does the same thing, their smile cures their patients." She took her deck and put it into her daughters hands.

"There is just a lot of fear in my heart that they may take the place the clan that I loved..."

"They know that you won't feel the same way about them as you do with Bermuda Triangle, but as it stands right now with how you are, you are their patient and they want to cure you of their sadness."

"No! I don't want to be their patient! I want to be their friend!" Hana yelled out without thinking.

Mother Espoir let out a tender smile, "Hear that, Nociel?"

"No-Nociel?..." Hana's eyes widened when she heard the name. She just remembered screaming and kicking. What does she do now? How will she face her?

"I understand how you feel Hana-ch-... Hana. While what you did really really hurt, its our job as nurses and doctors to make sure you feel better..." Nociel was trembling, she had obvious fear in her voice.

"I'm sorry..." Hana hear Nociel's hesitation and was at loss for words.

"Hana, understand the Angel Feathers aren't trying to take up a place in your heart that was once filled with your old friends. I know my daughter as a big and accepting heart that can make room for more friends, especially if they're the friends that her mother loves. Well, I actually hate these guys sometimes since they mess up my medical terms." She chuckled.

"Doctor, Cray and Earth have different uses for those terms, it is all your fault!" Shamsiel hissed back at Mother Espoir.

"Mom-san, I want to have a second chance with them, the Angel Feathers. Also Nociel, I know you won't be able to call me Hana-chan after last time or see me as friend or anything, but I realize now how much you guys are to me..."

"BELLA-chan it is. We'll call you your idol name. We won't take the place of Bermuda Triangle and walk hand in hand with you to the stage. We'll be back stage, so that we can fix you up after you break a leg after your show." Nociel replied, not trying to be encouraging.

"It looks like they're willing to help you as friends, but of course, just like me, they're workaholics. They see your case of sadness and they can't resist the urge of working to cure you from it." Mom pat her daughter's head and leaned in to hug her again.

The motherly touch was enough to cure her and all the fears that she had about the clans in an instant. The Angel Feather was here for her to support her and cure her, not to replace Bermuda Triangle, but to aid them during shows, especially when they mess up. Hana messed up here, now Nociel and the crew are on the job to help her out!

"I'm sorry... I'm sorry... I'm sorry. A second try, we can do this." Angel Feather now supports Hana in her dream, her dream to become an idol. Once could say that Angel Feather plays a motherly role for Hana, comforting, supporting, and helping in her time of need.

Hana and Mom-san arrived at the gates of the manor. Upon them opening, Hana rushed to her room and unlocked her door. She picked up the pieces of her broken tiara and gathered the cards of Angel Feather deck. She cried and held them close to her. She closed her eyes and felt the moment.

Downstairs, the Chief Nurse was having a heated debate with Shamsiel. The Lion of a father was sweating nervously, not knowing whether he should break up their scuffle or not. His wife was his equal, and he didn't want to get a taste of her power... not now, he hasn't trained for days, she might win.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 29, 2015, 07:47:51 PM: Dad Espoir decided against trying to interrupt his wife and Shamsiel. He was happy to see his beloved but also not ready to lose one of their grand-scaled fights due to his lack of training. Yukino remained quiet, not bothering her mother, still staying on the floor. The queen lost herself in thought, contemplating on how to go about speaking with her family before anything. Having calmed her breathing, Ezel tried giving her a pep talk... which made her more nervous. Mother hadn't been home in awhile and Father being in the same house that wasn't destroyed by the two was a rare treat. The desire to enjoy what will probably last about two hours was there.

But Hana...

Hana dashed off to her room before anything. Yugure decided not to nag her for a minute, instead, waiting for her sister to come back down.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 29, 2015, 08:06:06 PM: Hana took a few more moments to speak with them and tell them what she had to say. She even went to her closet and brought the Doge Deck along with her. Sleygal say what what?

"Woof."

Dandy.

She walked down the stairs and saw her sister sitting on floor. While she was happy that her sister didn't go through with it, she still felt a feeling deep in her heart that she had no more kindness to spare for this person. She looked over to Mom-san who seemed to have defeated Shamsiel, their score was now 999345 - 932994, with Mom-san still in the lead. Dad-san and Mom-san were now talking, with father wiping the sweat drops on his forehead, thankful that it was over.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 29, 2015, 08:14:06 PM: "Hana, I want to talk to you", Yukino began, still seated. "While I want to offer more than an apology... seems my thoughts on how to go about it get more and more jumbled", the elder sister gave an excuse, trying to come up with things as she scratched her head. From the time in the rift all the way to running home, finding the exact thing to say didn't come to her coherently. Wiping her forehead with an exhausted sigh, she spoke more:

"First, I want to offer the apology. The useless wreck I was... I've been pretty disgusting, and even worse to you more than anybody, especially when it looks like I wasted your efforts."

She stopped.

"Ugh..." a frustrated groan. "Give me a minute... There's a lot I want to say but can't get it out... And I know you have your fair share of things to say to me too."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 29, 2015, 08:31:58 PM: "You would treat me like some pampered princess but you really should look at yourself." Her light mood suddenly worsened upon hearing her sister's voice. All she came here for was to actually just see that she's ok. Talking to her mom helped Hana understand Angel Feathers and in turn, the clan has been given a place in her heart. Right now she just wanted to see Miyuki, but she was still asleep according to some of the workers. Looking at Yukino annoyed her. It could've been jealousy, but at the same time, it was just a large amount of annoyance. Hana felt dumb to look up to a person that was like this.

"It doesn't just look like you wasted my efforts, its fact that you actually did. Get it right." She put her head down and walked off into the dining hall.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 29, 2015, 08:46:40 PM: Yukino shot up, grabbing Hana by her wrist.

"I said I wanted to talk to you, and we're not dropping this until you're okay with it", the queen asserted. "Thank you for the correction, I wasted your efforts. I feel terrible about that as it is and you don't care about the reasons why - you shouldn't care. But I'm keeping your faith you had in me that night in mind, regardless."

She let go.

"I've been a horrible sister to you, and I know judging by your face and tone that my very existence drives you up a wall. However, after finally wanting to not give up, that's exactly what I'm going to do for us. I'm not going to treat you like a pampered princess because you 'need' to be protected or 'need' coddling. I'm going to start doing that because I love you, which is why I wanted to do so in the first place. I'll recover, but my recovery doesn't mean anything if I can't fix what I've done to you somehow."

The woman's tone was rather angry itself, but more at herself. Yet, it was also because she's not taking getting ignored for an answer. She cracked her neck, feeling less numb after everything in order to promote this discussion.

"So, I'm going to do it somehow. I don't have an answer I understand yet, but I'm going to find one. Starting by not being a miserable pile of trash you felt the need to look at with disdain."

There was more she had to say, despite that much. However, she waited on Hana's response before going on.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 29, 2015, 09:13:00 PM: She rubbed her wrist and turned away.

"You started to recovering without me anyways. You don't need me, you can just have everyone else who was there with you yesterday cause quality over quantity, seems easy enough. Some of them, you didn't even know, but I guess you just wanted the attention? That's great considering you've been the one having it all throughout our childhood anyways so why not just have it now. Hearing an angry tone from someone who's so spoiled is sickening, its like after all that you're still not satisfied."

She leaned against a wall and sighed, seeing as her sister was so intent on talking about something that could've been finished days, even weeks back.

"Also, don't touch me and tell me what to do like you're my big sister cause you aren't..."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 29, 2015, 09:22:37 PM: "Yeah, I guess I'm not satisfied, because the one person most important to me hates me. I'm not going to deny I'm a spoiled brat and I'd like to stop being one, which is why I'm starting with this effort. I want you", Yukino responded. Honestly unsure of how to answer the rest, the last bit about not being her big sister hurt. It was enough of a wound opener to nearly break her again, but she just said she was done being a miserable pile of trash, and meant that.

"Fine... I'm not your big sister. I'm not the glorious role model you used to look up to anymore. However, I'd like to be the sister you envision me as. The one you wanted since our childhood."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 29, 2015, 09:43:50 PM: "You're free to do that but I don't need one anymore. Actually, the last thing I need is someone to be my role model at this point seeing as how my first one tried to jump off a building." She sighed at the thought.

"I have no idea what you were thinking and I don't even want to know. You just a boyfriend a few days back and I've been setting stuff up for you to feel better despite it causing me some more suffering on my own. You didn't want to feel like an object yet you treated me like one. Then when I had spilled my heart out to you, you still felt like I wasn't talking to you as a sister? How dare you even think that I'd want you as a sister. All you've done and have been doing is giving me the same problems you have, maybe even worse and then you go and get yours attended to first like always and I suffer through mine trying to help. Of course what I did apparently didn't do a thing despite how hard I tried because all you wanted was to have your dumb ego lifted up again! Do it yourself with your own actions instead relying on people to praise you for existing, at least people notice you when you do things right!" Hana lost herself in the last bit, saying it without thinking, but she just had to let it go.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 29, 2015, 10:06:34 PM: "I said I'd like to be the sister you envision me as. I'm not the role model you wanted nor will I ever be, considering all that I've done. However, I just care that we're family."

Yukino listened to her sister, taking note of the last bit with yelling. This is what the woman was waiting for.

"It was never my intention to have you experience my problems, nor to shoulder them at the cost of yourself. It was my job to take the burden, and I already failed at it. I apologize for being a whiny attention whore, but it's bloody obvious that it won't do a thing. Yet, I still apologize for it anyway. I'm sorry for the suffering you've gone through because of me starting from two months' past. I'm sorry for treating you like an object when I didn't want to be treated that way myself.

I'm going to do my own recovering through my own actions. I don't deserve praise, and I'm not going to let it carry me anymore. I also apologize for overshadowing your life because of my ego, as that was never my intention either.

I can't erase the gross past of my life. I understand if you don't want me for a sister... Still, my offer is going to keep standing. In addition to that, I intend to keep my word, whether you accept it or not."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 29, 2015, 10:35:14 PM: "It sucks. It just really sucks. I want to be an idol. You know what they're good at? Standing out and making people happy... and you know what I've been unable to do all my life? Just that..." She stood up from the wall and walked towards Yukino.

She raised her hand and slapped her sister in the face.

"I just told you to make things happen by acting on them didn't I?..." She was frustrated. Her words from before always bounced off of Yukino came back at her with no effect. She didn't want to care and just wanted to shut her out so that she could keep on wasting the effort just like hers was.

So she slapped her again.

"The first one was how winning nationals felt like! This one was how losing my clan to save Royal Paladin just to see you go to Shadow Paladin felt like!"

And another one.

"Now that's how one feels when they spill their heart and discover that it isn't enough!"

This one was the hardest one of them all.

"That's how it felt like to have you as a sister!"

Hana breathed deeply. She closed her eyes and calmed herself down. "Now if your offer still stands after all that, then I'd gladly take it as long as you stop talking about it and just do whatever it is. I'm going to go eat now. You're free to come if you want." She opened them and walked off, deep inside having a feeling of relief.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 29, 2015, 10:48:40 PM: Yukino took all four hits without resistance, holding her ground each time, taking in the raw emotion conveyed from Hana's hand. The queen didn't nurse her cheeks, instead, absorbing the full force of the pain. Staring at her departing sister, she spoke: "... Of course... it still stands." Gritting her teeth, she went on to keep her word as intended. The acceptance of being a disgusting human being came to the queen a long time ago. It was only now she got what she wanted: the princess to unleash her feelings. Wanting to feel as if the gravity of a broken bond is off shoulders, it was still there. Hana wanted action, and Yukino planned to deliver, hoping that taking the assault without complaint was an example.

Even so, she was in no mood to actually eat. However, she needed to survive in order to change things. In order to survive, she needed to eat. Giving out a sigh and waiting a few moments, she followed into the dining room.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 29, 2015, 11:58:58 PM: It seems like the workers were already preparing grilled chicken for dinner since Dad-san ordered it prior to their arrival. Hana had no complaints and sat down. Chicken was good for its protein after all. She was still silent, still feeling a frustration within her, but she found a new determination within herself along with Angel Feather. She had goals and her dreams were recreated. She was determined to become the person who she wanted to become.

That said, she was kind of hoping that Yukino would just talk to her as a sister now as she said. Hana was getting tired of the overly-dramatic stuff and had nothing else to say. The rest, she can solve by herself. At this rate, she may be able to go back to the council. At the same time, she still needed some more time to rest. Cray without a leader terrified her though, since all the inhabitants acted like such little kids.

The chicken was served on the table and she silently began to eat, accompanied by her own thoughts.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 30, 2015, 04:37:38 PM: Yukino took a seat as the chicken was served, keeping any further thoughts to herself. Dad Espoir looked upon his two daughters, neither of them looking all too happy with this family gathering. He needed to do something... The man was going to break the ice, but the queen spoke instead. "So, Hana, how was time with mother? See anything interesting on the trip?" After the inquiry, she began eating slowly, hoping Mom Espoir wouldn't answer so the little sister could talk.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 30, 2015, 09:24:14 PM: It felt heavy and it was silent even though everyone in the family was together, but Hana didn't mind. It was relaxing. She kept thinking on and on until the question arose. Then she began to think, since traveling all around yields many surprises. The answer could be anything. Along mom-san's line of work, especially with the large amount of traveling and endless number of patients, there were a numerous amount of chances that arose to meet all kinds of people. Hana took upon the opportunity herself during the few days with her mother to get to know many of the patients that her mother had.

"One of mom-san's patients is a manager for some of the popular idol groups here." She answered, not making eye contact, "I told him about all my goals and stuff and he said I might be able to audition to just be in the back up for one of the shows. Its not much, but its a start."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 30, 2015, 10:01:18 PM: "What kind of man was he? You can judge the kind of manager he is by his attitude, and I'm not having you bullied in a future carrer", Dad spoke.

"Relax, Father. This is a chance for her dreams to finally start. Plus, it'd be too easy if he set her up in the front immediately", Yukino chimed in to halt their father's overprotective persona. He gave an annoyed grunt, and continued eating his chicken. "I'm glad you found this kickstart", she added.

"I'm glad too, but-"

"Did you meet anyone else interesting? See big surgeries through the window?" The woman cut him off before he tried spewing another overbearing line.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 30, 2015, 10:38:04 PM: "Thanks... Also Dad-san, this guy worked with Mom-san so she was able to get to know him before I met him and she said he was cool. Big surgeries?... I mean everyone was pretty interesting, but he stood out the most cause of what I want to do and all. Yeah I was kind of scared of how it looked at first, but after awhile I kinda got used to it. "

Speaking of surgeries, Yukino cut dad-san off before he could even speak. Not that Hana mind, he would have probably ended up repeating himself and asking fifty versions of the same question before finally standing down, temporarily. Mom-san was silently continuing her meal, finally getting a moment's rest from her endless amount of work. Though, she couldn't help herself to ignore the redness on her daughter's cheeks.

"Yukino are you alright? It looks like you got that just recently, where did it come from?"

Hana tucked her head in even more and tightened her body in discomfort upon hearing the question, turning her head to look away.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 30, 2015, 11:07:49 PM: "Hmm..." A skeptical father took a drink of water, obviously not trusting this manager at all. Even if Mom Espoir worked with him. Ultimately, he decided not to pursue it until needed... which he will make it so he is needed. Yukino gave an annoyed sigh, already under enough stress. Papa Wolf's bloodthirst in the act of protecting his kin wasn't exactly desired on her plate. The queen act slowly, but a little bit before the mother questioned her red cheeks. Not looking at Hana, she took a second to make up an excuse.

"Had a bit of a problem on the way home. It's nothing to worry about", a vague lie. Though, she was out of breath when she got home, so hopefully that would help make it more convincing.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 30, 2015, 11:34:12 PM: Mom-san was able to see through based on the pause as well as Hana's reaction to the question. Not only that, but the redness on Yukino's face couldn't possibly be as noticeable as it was if it was only on the way home. Above all, her mother's intuition told her that it wasn't as Yukino said it was. As for Dad-san, he was totally clueless and bought the whole thing. He started gritting his teeth, the table shaking from how he was slowly leaking his fury. Mom-san laughed at the sight and nonetheless, gave a smile and nod.

"I see, you should tell your dad next time so he could handle it." She then turned to her husband and politely informed him, "Please calm down, we still need this table." ... with a hundred gallons of intimidating passive aggression.

Hana understood what her sister was doing. She appreciated it actually. Though, as it seems, they were most likely unable to have a nice casual conversation as long as the destructive duo known as Mom-san and Dad-san were around. So she thought about maybe going out with her sister after dinner to at least give her a chance to act towards her promise.

"Mom-san, we are going to be going again in a day or so right? I might just be able to stay here if things go well."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 31, 2015, 12:07:20 AM: Dad almost had an idea, but the thought of the manager put him in the "is somebody bothering my girls" mode, so that notion was erased. He looked toward his wife with a silent "are you challenging me" expression. The queen began sweating, knowing exactly how this was going to end. It was going to be a shame, as this table was made of material finer than most of the fabric on the servant uniforms. ... She quickly realized this was just a bad comparison and gave the table a quiet farewell.

Yukino looked toward Hana when she spoke, happy to hear the idea of staying around. Words and an iron stance may have gotten through, maybe that cover too.

Father turned his attention to the princess and inquired: "Changing your mind about going all over the place with your mother?"

He wasn't happy his little girl and wife traveled everywhere constantly, but not nearly as much to home.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 31, 2015, 01:22:08 AM: "Yeah, I think I'm just getting in mom's way anyways, plus I'm kind of hoping that she finishes things up more quickly so she can get the days off and spend time with us here."

Hana had finished her meal and placed her utensils in an organized fashion for a worker to pick up. Maybe Yukino needed some rest, so maybe they should postpone the outing for tomorrow night.

Affinity:
Yukino: +3
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 31, 2015, 01:31:15 PM: Yukino spent an ample amount of time in her room again, but kept herself in contact with the family as much as possible. The morning was used up talking with Ezel for hours about the Sanctuary and how life in the castle is. It's more hectic and casual on the inside than one would believe. The sheer shenanigans that went on and still do aren't to be scoffed at. The queen questioned how it'd be to be trained as a knight, and the lion stated that for some the training is beyond grueling. For the naturally gifted, however, they're the ones who get to slack off early. Apparently, Garmore was one of those in the latter group.

Learning more about the nation got her excited for the eventual trip there, but she kept the idea of going in mind to herself and her best friend.

She sent the same text to everyone whose number she had:

"Hey, I'm okay now. Thank you for everything."

Now was the time to keep the rest of her complaints to herself. Focusing on everyone else's problems and trying to fix them as desired days ago was the next plan, along with rectifying her relationship with Hana. Unfortunately, she wasn't all too sure on how to go about it. Several ideas formulated into a visit somewhere as a bit of a vacation. Ezel recommended the beach and Yukino promptly responded with: "Are you crazy?! Do you know how hot it is right now?!"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 31, 2015, 02:18:18 PM: Hana started off the morning with her usual routine, running around a few times around the manor, and then doing the drills that Dad-san had set up. After that, she ate a quick breakfast and returned to her room to take a shower. The rest of the morning was spent insid her room, talking to the council about the current state of the War of Liberation. As it stands, Gold Paladins so far are ahead of the game with multiple fighters showing the potential to activate the power which can unseal the clans. After that, the rest of the time was used for casual chit chat, one that the council had all planned due to their concern for Hana's well-being due to her sudden leave.

"I feel like someone is talking about me..." Garmore sneezed, "Wait, where's the damn Lion!?"

"WELL YOU SEE PRINCESS, I AM ACTUALLY AS OLD AS NOCIEL." Juggernaut Maximum commented.

"Wha-..." Hana was at a loss for words.

After a good time, Hana opened her eyes back on Earth and headed to the Dining Hall. Right in time for lunch, and it seems like the rest of the day had lots of time in it to spare as well.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 31, 2015, 03:10:32 PM: "I hate you", hissed the queen.

"No you don't", jeered the lion.

Yukino made her way downstairs. She was going to regret this with every fiber of her being, she just knows it. Unfortunately for her, the red lion heir makes a compelling argument: "deal with it". Seeing Hana, this was probably the best place to start.

"Hey there", she greeted the princess.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 31, 2015, 03:19:07 PM: She enjoy a nice breakfast, pancakes and eggs. On the side was omelette with eggs. Perfect. She dug into the food trying free her mind of worries, though with no success. There was still the bothered feeling from the back of her mind and knowing that things weren't at all back to the way they were making her feel discomfort altogether. Eventually she just stopped eating, not because she was full. She had only taken a few bites, but suddenly she just felt full. The Angel Feathers realized this and tried to console her, attempting to make their dear patient and friend feel better.

"Thanks..." Hana said in reply.

She then suddenly heard a voice which brought her mind back out into the dining hall. It seems that Yukino had made her way in and was the one who had greeting her.

"Hi..." she weakly greeted in return.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 31, 2015, 03:32:37 PM: "How are you feeling?" Yukino asked this, already knowing the negativity from Hana's tone. Still, the woman wanted to ease back into helping girl in turn for how she helped her. A fear of the princess not actually speaking her mind was present, but it was to be expected.

"You know what to do either way", Ezel reminded.

Yugure wanted to punch him in the face, yet, had no alternative for her mood.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 31, 2015, 03:39:24 PM: "I'm ok," she responded. Which was somewhat of a lie. Her head and heart felt like they were being dragged down altogether, the sight of Yukino made it worse. Hana dealt with these feelings by constantly shoving them back in her mind. Letting them out would help, but they really wouldn't go away unless the problem is dealt with first hand which is why she actually more active when she is sad than when she is feeling well. She signaled a worker to come and take her full plate of food. She then stood up from her chair.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 31, 2015, 03:50:06 PM: As expected, a lie. Yukino internally groaned, but it couldn't be helped at the moment. Seems the plan she made with Ezel was the one way out, but the queen was going to try and steer away from the suggested literal hotspot.

"Do you want to head out today? Just to do something. Like maybe the beach? Or somewhere else...? We can have all our friends tag along too."

That "somewhere else" was a little too hopeful.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 31, 2015, 04:05:34 PM: "I don't mind going anywhere to get my mind off of things..."

Hana didn't mind nor care about where it was, as long she wasn't alone at least, that could be fun. She walked out of the dining area and turned back at her Yukino.

"You can choose where and then we can call your friends to come I guess."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on August 31, 2015, 04:16:33 PM: "They're your friends too. Though, I suppose Miyuki might be a bit more", Yukino let out a playful jest about her sister's obvious crush.

"Beach", Ezel bugged.

"No."

"Beeeeaaach."

"Nooo."

"Beeeeeeaaaaaaaaaaaaacccccchhhhhh."

After annoying her for five minutes straight, she caved in. A mental note to buy a hefty amount of sunscreen was formulated while asking servants to gather supplies. Umbrellas, beach chairs, and the sisters could go shopping for new swimsuits. The previous times this year Yukino had gone to the beach, she hadn't worn one. Just a sundress and then her regular attire. Thinking to herself, she blushed a little, curious about Haruka's opinion toward her in one. Then again, hopefully he drops the scarf for two seconds so she can stare at his form for a few seconds... minutes... maybe not a few.

"You guys wanna go to the beach with Hana and I today?" Was texted to Satoshi, Haruka, and Miyuki.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on August 31, 2015, 04:26:30 PM: Hana sighed. Last time she went to the beach was a pain in the ass too. She'd rather not remember how or why, at least, she didn't remember all the details as it was two months ago. It was probably where Vanguard started being a pain as well, but she supposed that this could be different. Since it seems like Yukino was making arrangements, she decided to start to make her way upstairs and arrange things for herself and get her own things ready. There was already a swimsuit that she had bought because Pacifica suggested it for her awhile back, but she had never worn it. Now was probably a good idea to try and look for it.

"Just call me when we're going, thanks."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on September 01, 2015, 04:44:22 PM: Satoshi popped a quick message to Yukino on his way to the Shopping District.

Hey, I need to buy some stuff for this world championship we're all flying out to. You wanna come with today? It'll give us a chance to talk. I'll send Haruka a message as well, not really sure where he went off to today.

After sending, he then prepped another one for his well-intentioned rival:

Hey, man, let's get some stuff together before we fly out to New York. I sent Yukino a message about it. See you there.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 01, 2015, 05:46:39 PM: "Can't today, another time. Sorry!"

It took Yukino a full hour to text that. Her phone dropped to the floor, smoking from the back. The queen's body was enveloped in the same golden glow that it was back in the rift with Ezel. It was almost like being on fire, and being able to sympathize that with Haruka wasn't something she ever asked for. A quiet cry of agony escaped her lips, unable to move from the unrelenting heat. Panting and sweating, rolling around in bed was about all she could do.

Garmore and other knights witnessed the red lion heir under the same conditions, not being able to stand as he was cloaked in the same heat as well.

What the hell... is happening to us...?!
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 09, 2015, 06:13:51 PM: The rift in the sky had closed, without Yukino leaving into it. She didn't tell her avatars why, but it was simple to guess at. The woman returned home to explain the circumstances to her family and how her mind wouldn't be changed. Father Espoir gave a sigh, saying that he believed this would happen eventually. However, she would have to find another way in if Cray was her destination for a "vacation" of becoming a knight of the sanctuary.

He'd look into it.

In the meantime, the woman attempted to call Haruka a multitude of times, leaving several texts.

"Hey, are you alright? You passed out at the stage and Sera took over..."

"Haruka? Please answer me when you can."

"Hey, are my messages getting through?"

"Haruka, anything works, just respond!"

"Are you okay?"

"I love you."

Yukino thought going to Cray would be less painful, as she simply wanted to get out of everyone's sight. Unfortunately, she was unable to leave on a good note with him like this, and things unfinished with Hana.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on September 09, 2015, 06:38:49 PM: Satoshi walked up and rang the bell, putting his hands back into his pockets.

He hadn't planned on doing this when he got back, because he had assumed Yukino would've gone to Cray by now. But a text from the butler said she was having a short visit at home. Settling things was going to be now or never.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on September 09, 2015, 06:58:41 PM: Back in New York-

Sera finally found himself at a coffee shop near the hotel. He had knowledge of Haruka's coffee addiction and decided to take a seat there and order some. Perhaps Haruka would come back out if his favorite drink graced his lips. Without knowledge of his favorite brew, it suddenly struck Sera as a catastrophe. He needed something to bring the host of the body back to his senses. He was in something of a comatose state right now and Sera was half-panicking. He never panicked. This was worst case scenario-

Hmm...?

A text from Yukino had hit his phone. Then another. Then several more. His phone also had missed calls, probably because Sera was so concerned with disappearing from that fight hall that he didn't bother to check the contraption buzzing in his pocket.

Sera read all the messages, then frowned. These are the words Haruka wants to see. He would immediately cling back to Yukino like she never hurt him, because he's so air-headed. Sera was left at a crossroads, save the messages for when Haruka woke up, or avoid the problem entirely and message her back himself. He chewed his lip as the cup of coffee made it to the table.

He breathed in the rich aroma and smiled. Then frowned again when his phone buzzed.

"I love you."

"No you don't." Sera spoke into the reflection of his coffee. He had discarded the scarf Haruka was wearing, finding it abominably uncomfortably. The reflection showed nothing but a ghost in the shell of a boy. Sera sighed, sipping his hot coffee.

Haruka resurfaced... momentarily. He was frightened to open his eyes and see the world from first person again. He had been seeing a panorama earlier, but this was him in control once more, terrified. Sera said nothing, but directed his attention to his phone.

He picked up his phone and read through the texts. Haruka's hands shook, staring at the list of messages and missed calls. He almost wish he hadn't read them. All he wanted to do was shut out everything, and forget everyone. But he couldn't escape reality so quickly when the girl he happened to be in love with, or so he thinks, is still out there.

"im fine. where are you -haru" Haruka hit send and dropped his phone on the table. His attention returned to the coffee. The reflection showed the shell of the boy, and the ghost inside who wanted to save him.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 09, 2015, 07:05:18 PM: One of the butlers let Satoshi in.

"I'm at the manor. Can you call me?"

Yukino closed her phone after staring at it for a little bit. She was told by the servants that a guest arrived to see her. Best to settle everything that's left, so the queen left to go see. It was likely Satoshi, as Haruka didn't seem to be home, and she doubted Hana wanted to look at her.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on September 09, 2015, 07:11:13 PM: Satoshi sat down in one of the chairs in the visiting room that, a long time ago, he and Haruka had a firsthand experience at meeting Mr. Espoir in. On the couch, a short distance away, a hard smack in the face from Yukino had made him conk out for a little bit. He tried to laugh a bit at this memory, because in his head, it was pretty funny to look back on, but what came out was something akin to a small cough.

A bit of coffee was available to drink. He sipped it. It tasted just as good as it had in days prior, but something felt different about the experience as a whole. It wasn't a welcoming feeling, or a homely feeling. Honestly, there wasn't anything to feel at all. It was just a cup of coffee.

That felt very wrong to think.

Placing the mug back down, Satoshi awaited Yukino's arrival, who, he was told, was on her way down.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 09, 2015, 07:15:00 PM: "Satoshi..." She spoke, seeing that it was as expected. Time to get to work.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on September 09, 2015, 07:18:01 PM: Back in New York-

After several sips of coffee and brainstorming, Sera and Haruka had come to the conclusion that they need to balance each other out. Sera would take care of Haruka when he was unable to deal with the world. When the pressure got too high, Sera would take the reins and finish what Haruka started no matter what. It was a pact among teammates, in a way. Except they were one person, not a team. People looked at Haruka suspiciously since the rule held true to this day, Sera cannot hear Haruka unless he speaks out loud and vice versa. They can't intercommunicate through the mind, sadly enough.

Haruka's phone buzzes again with a request about calling. He hesitates answering at all at first, not sure if he could face her. No... No there was no way he could face her. His chest started to hurt again, and he only wanted to say hurtful things. He wanted to yell at her or worse, just break it off. His lips quivered a little, reaching for the phone. He made it simple and easy, Sera having his back if he had to take over for whatever reason.

"sorry. too loud, cant call. busy at the coffee house. -haru"

Haruka tapped his fingers on the table in front of him, sipping his coffee. He reached for his Vanguard deck which seemed to be the same-

Wait.

Daunt...less....drive....dragon? Haruka thumbed over the card, reading it's effect.

A restanding effect. Haruka's eyes glowed and a small smile formed. It was the card that came to him when Overlord did not. Dauntless Drive Dragon... Cruel Dragon... Chain Blast... They were all the embodiment of Haruka's emotions when the seal was broken. They came to him as his protectors, and as his comrades. He had to learn to cherish his new friends-

They're not your friends Haruka. They're your protectors. Consider them your shields.

Sera made a point to forget that Vanguard units could be friends in their discussion. Haruka resented the idea, but for the sake of his psyche, he didn't retaliate the idea and simply followed Sera's lead on this one. He knew best, after all.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on September 09, 2015, 07:21:50 PM: Satoshi crossed his leg over the other, seeing the Chosen Swordswoman walk in.

"Hi. It's been a while, right?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 09, 2015, 07:25:49 PM: Yukino's phone buzzed, she'd get to that in a minute.

"Yeah... Haven't had a moment to relax until now. I noticed you were... well, not in the best shape awhile back. How are you feeling now?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on September 09, 2015, 07:30:47 PM: Satoshi shook his head. "Not the greatest, if I'm being honest." He scratched at his shoulder a little bit.

"Sorry I left."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 09, 2015, 07:33:44 PM: "Why are you apologizing?" Yukino inquired, leaning against the wall. "We're both here now, so let's talk about how you're feeling."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on September 09, 2015, 08:05:50 PM: Satoshi sighed. "Okay, but it's going to be a long one, and I'm going to need to stand up for it." He stretched his arms and pushed himself off the chair.

"I ache, a lot. I feel like the things I experienced, the heavy loss that I felt, was real. So very real. Like a 'I don't want this to ever happen again' real." He folded his arms across his chest. "I learned, I would assume, what you felt when you lost Royal Paladins and Shadow Paladins. When you lost your avatars." He bowed his head. "It was indescribable pain. I wanted to cry, to yell, to scream, everything I could do before emotionally. But even when it got fixed, everything was just..."

He snapped his fingers. "Gone."

He shook his head. "See, the difference between what you felt and what I felt is very, very small, but so very significant." He gestured to her. "You did lose your avatars, and the pain was unreal, but here's the thing. You were given a fallback. Ezel wanted to help you through it, and as far as I can tell, he did way better than Haruka and I could've hoped to, and Haru's your bloody boyfriend."

He pointed to himself. "Me, though? What happened back there? I was directly responsible for it. Even when Tsubasa succeeded and freed everyone, I, the champion of Neo Nectar, even with the strongest power I could put forward, failed my own clan and lost them to the abyss." He clenched his hand into a fist. "When you can't even succeed at protecting those you care for the most...when I couldn't help you get through your struggles, I felt I failed you. Not just as the Royal Guard or whatever, but as a friend. One of your best friends, even."

He shook his head again. "Failing Seph and Neo Nectar felt even worse than that. I don't want that to happen to them again. I don't want anyone to suffer because of a stupid mistake of mine."

He scratched the back of his head, looking up at Yukino. "So I told Seph I couldn't stick with him and the clan. At least not now. I don't have it in me right now, and I don't know when I will again. I...don't really have a direction I can think of." He gave an awkward chuckle. "Also, since you're leaving for Cray, I'm out of a job, so I have to find something better to do with myself. I can't be that stalwart force their world wanted me to be."

He reached into his pocket and waved a golden deckbox sheepishly. "Don't worry, though, they won't actually leave me alone. Apparently I'm important because I helped put an end to the War of Liberation or something, so I have to be watched over like I'm some kind of VIP by Cray's new security sect. They're called Genesis, I think?" He shrugged. "They're a part of the United Sanctuary. I'm sure you'll see them while you're out there."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 09, 2015, 08:36:59 PM: "You really shouldn't think about the difference", Yukino stated on the matter of comparing their pains. It was the simple fact that they felt and experienced it. The queen listened to how he went about it, noting that he had nothing to fall back on. She had Ezel, but that was because her loss was early. Satoshi's was at the endgame. Still, not having a new friend like the lion to lean on, even for a shorter time span, was painful.

"I failed everyone else first, so don't worry about helping me. I was directly responsible for our losses too."

This whole affair was because she couldn't beat Neu the first time around. Putting the blame where it belongs should take away some of the burden, but not the aching born from losing their own clan. Despite having Royal and Shadow back, she can't say that she doesn't feel remorse over losing them in the first place. Hearing about how he wouldn't face Neo Nectar for the time being, at least without them pestering him, the woman approached a friend in need, and patted his shoulder.

"You are still a champion. Genesis should take good care of you, and your bond with Neo Nectar will stay intact."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on September 09, 2015, 08:57:56 PM: "Yeah...even then, I need some time away if I can. Clearing my head, I guess, coming to terms."

He hugged her. "Gonna miss you. Keep in touch somehow if you can."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 09, 2015, 10:05:48 PM: "I'll try to", she said, hugging him back. Hopefully there really was some way to stay in touch with Earth. Maybe something for Star Gate to figure out, seeing as the nation is made up of visitors from different planets. Giving Satoshi a few more pats and a reassuring gaze, one of her hands texted Haruka back, then Hana.

"Call me later then, Haruka."

And...

"Hana, how are you feeling with how things are going?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on September 09, 2015, 10:48:21 PM: "Better. At dance practice at the moment. Concert in two days. ~ <3 BELLA"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 09, 2015, 10:51:19 PM: "Oh, so you're getting your first gig? That's great! Tell me about how dance practice went when it's over. Wanna hear about the moves you're gonna be using."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on September 09, 2015, 11:47:56 PM: Hana wiped her face with a towel. It was difficult, but she managed to keep up with the formation work, having to have had worked extra hard as the center. She replied back.

"It went well, kind of difficult, but I could keep up. It was more going into formations today and reaching them on time. What have you been doing?~ <3 BELLA"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 09, 2015, 11:52:01 PM: "Is that manager still gonna put you in the back? Or is he letting you have the spotlight? I'd love to see you leading said formations. I've been talking with Satoshi here, that's all."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on September 10, 2015, 12:21:55 AM: "Its a concert coordinated with the officials of the New York Stage and U.S National Tournaments. I'll be the center. It's celebration for the end of the War of Liberation. Good luck with the thirsty guy. ~ <3 BELLA"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 10, 2015, 12:29:44 AM: "Yes! Congratulations on making it to the center for your worldwide debut! I'll be heading back up to New York soon once I'm finished with everything here. Do you want to go around sightseeing? If you haven't already."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on September 10, 2015, 12:42:03 AM: "I have with Mi-hime, but I wouldn't mind going around again. ~ <3 BELLA"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 10, 2015, 12:49:26 AM: "I'll see you tomorrow at Times Square then.

Thank you."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on September 10, 2015, 02:26:42 AM: Satoshi nodded to her and gave her once last hug.

"Good luck. See you when I see you, right?" He gave a smile and a wink.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 18, 2015, 12:32:05 PM: A limousine parks a little ways from the manor's gate. Within the passenger's compartment is a woman radiating an aura of impatience, and a golden, caped warrior next to her who felt the same, but did not give off the same hostility. Hearing "we've arrived" alerted the pair, and white gloves gripped onto the bar, forcing the door open. The girl winced, the sunlight greatly beaming down, unexposed to it directly for quite a long time. A hand reached her shoulder, getting the male knight her attention. Red eyes scanned over the area, recognizing the mansion. Saying this was the place, his partner responded with: "We've work to do." Walking toward the gate together, the caped hero transformed into light, and entered her hand as a card. A key card in a separate hand slid through a device for approval, opening the golden gate.

"Let me in", she commanded the servants, approaching the entrance to the residence. They were rather surprised this stranger got through the gate.

"My apologies, but this is private territory-" The guard stopped mid-sentence, the soldier's lightly colored eyes had pupils that morphed into twin swords. Servants immediately bowed, acknowledging this proof of heritage - Yukino Espoir had returned. "Welcome back, young mistress."

Wasting no time, the heiress entered her home when the door opened. While more of the lowly employees were bowing, several walked in with her.

"Where is father?"

"In his study."

"Tell him his eldest daughter has returned, we have plans to formulate. Get him coffee and get me tea. In addition to those, get my phone from my room, as it was taken from me when I left."

The queen barked orders, and the Espoir attendants dutifully carried them out without hesitation nor question. While notably happy about one of their mistresses returning, seeing as Isabella had assumed another living quarters for the year, many of them were whispering about how this one is drastically different. She sure wasn't happy to be home judging by her expression. Yugure gave them no mind, and stood in a hallway, waiting for Dad Espoir to come out. Eventually, her original cellphone was placed in hand. Thanking the servant, a text was quickly conjured up to a number of people who were likely to have concerns of her disappearance, then forwarded.

"My apologies for a silent departure."

That was it, having no desire to add anything pretentious or unnecessary. The device was placed in pocket, then arms were folded, the woman focusing on her thoughts.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on September 18, 2015, 01:10:58 PM: "wb. how you been? ISA Hope :3c"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on September 18, 2015, 01:23:14 PM: Staring at his phone, Haruka was back at school sitting in class. He just stared at the message. A rock in his chest suddenly cracked and all he felt was spiny pain all over. His head even hurt now.

He almost didn't want to say anything back. Haruka was close to breaking the small mechanism he was so angry. Anger. That's what was welling in him.

Anger at her. Both of them. Hana, for pulling him into this lovey dovey bit when they were both obviously in love with other people, betraying the trust of those who promised to love them in return. Yukino, for disappearing without as much as a word until only now, and leaving with what... This?! Himself... For letting those things get to him. He was enraged. He was boiling.

But he wasn't able to confront the problem. He didn't want to say anything to provoke her. He simply responded... As he would've if she had never left.

"yahelloo. glad you're back!! -haru"

That text was a blatant lie but all he could do was quell the flame for now. The fire he's been feeling. The subtle heat only rising was all over. Haruka was actually sweating now. He had business to take care of after school sadly. Meeting with Yukino anytime soon might have to wait.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Beryl on September 18, 2015, 01:55:23 PM: Satoshi grumbled. His phone vibrating had rudely awaken his spread-out slumber on his bed. It was early in the afternoon, did they seriously need him to come in for a gig right away? He had told them his hours, and---

He stared at the phone. It was from Yukino. He opened the message and read the brief line. Well, for him, the departure hadn't been silent. Yukino had at least attempted to reconcile with him as a broken shell of a man, reminding him she still cared somewhat. And it wasn't like she missed much by not sending a message, either, considering no one else had texted him until his return to Japan after the acquisition of the very apartment he was sleeping in right now.

Satoshi thought about what to say in response, then typed it out quickly before rolling over.

No big deal. Hope you had a good year.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 18, 2015, 03:10:05 PM: To Hana: "I've been better."

To Haruka: "I'm glad you're glad."

To Satoshi: "I hope you have as well."

Yugure fiddled around with her cell phone, changing numerous settings while replying to other texts. Eventually, the man she had been waiting for came out to greet her. Sharing a quick reunion hug, exchanging "Welcome home", and "Thank you", they got down to business.

"You're three months late", Father Espoir noted.

"That isn't my fault", his daughter retorted, walking into the office with him. Coffee and tea - as requested - were delivered to the pair. The butler heard them discussion that they're "almost out of time", and was completely confused. It seems the two of them were lost in unknown matters. The girl, for better or worse, looked stable enough, but was clearly stressed out by the topic as much as her parent. A meeting took place in a metaphorical hushed tone, not being leaked to the staff.

"I'll try to get something together", the lion of a man stated.

"We need to do more than try."

"I know that. I still can't solve it with just a few minutes. We're both - and everyone else - are going to need time."

Yugure's expressed darkened, showing fury born of impatience. He was right, but she didn't have to like it. He suggested she relax some for the moment as he attempts some form of preparation. The woman stated that she'd instead survey the city, adjusting to it after being gone for a year. Possibly find more soldiers to assist, including her friends. With a bow, the Espoir scion walked out. The man pinched the bridge of his nose in irritation.

Several maids tried to stop and have her sit down for a minute, but she simply responded with "no time", and left through the house gateway.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: OverDrive on September 18, 2015, 03:21:33 PM: Tsubasa had just finished his last lectures for the day, he planned to stop by some areas around the town that were on his mind such as the Cardfight Training Area before eventually heading to the hospital to visit Neu. He had a surprise in store for her, in a bag he was carrying that had the brand name Calvin Klein imprinted on it.

"..I hope she'll like this, it took me a while before I found the right one.." he thought, as he continued walking.

Continuing on his way he passes by a large mansion, he had not noticed it's existence before now. He continues walking eventually ending up near the gate of the mansion, upon hearing the sounds of the gate opening, he turns around to see who this mansion may belong to.

"..No way.. Is that Yukino?" he thought. "..Hey! Is that actually you?" he said, calling out to her with a wave.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 18, 2015, 03:28:44 PM: At the call of one passing by, her head turned to see Tsubasa. Gold Paladin's Vanguard would be an amazing help, thinking on it. Besides the thought of fighting, it was good to see him. The woman's stoic expression didn't seem to convey that well, however.

"Tsubasa..." She addressed him. "If you're looking for the Sword, then yes, it's me."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: OverDrive on September 18, 2015, 03:53:48 PM: Meeting with Yukino once again was a cheerful aspect of the day in Tsubasa's opinion, she's a person he respects and thinks of as a true friend, based on the way she treats her comrades. Regardless of her stoic expression as of now, he still wanted to act friendly rather than hostile, though something she said really bothered him.

"It's good to see you again Yukino.." he said, before hearing her say her last statement. "How many times am I gonna have to tell you this, I'm not looking for Yugure right now, the one i'm talking to right now is Yukino not the sword."

Regaining his composure, "Anyway how was the year long trip?" he asked, with a slight smile. He could tell that something was bothering her or rather something is not right but he reserved his judgement.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 18, 2015, 04:01:40 PM: "I'd prefer it if you called me Yugure", the Sword responded, finding solace in her destined name more than birth name. It was very reassuring to hear him say that, however. Him speaking with "Yukino" was a reminder of how much a friend she could consider him as. Lips curled into a small smile, breaking the tensity in her heart for a moment. Though, in the instance of relief, it immediately turned back into stress. The subject of what went on or how she was doing for her year of absence was an unavoidable one, but one she'd rather not talk about regardless.

"Not all too pleasant", Yugure answered honestly. There was little point in lying if she was going to ask him for help.

"I assume the year has been better to you?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: OverDrive on September 18, 2015, 04:14:25 PM: At this point it was clear that something was definitely not right, it was clear that something happened or rather she was worried about something. He nevertheless so no reason not to tell her what he was doing for the past year.

"..Let me worry about what I call you." he said, giving her a slight smile. "The year for me was rather successful not gonna lie,...I went back home and rebuilt my parent's house with my friends, it was tough considering that we did it by ourselves but it helped me spend some time with them aside from doing what I went for."

He was unsure how he can get her to tell him what was bothering her, without causing her trouble or any kind of worry so instead he chose to say it to her in a different way.

"..You know thinking back, I remember how the War of Liberation ended...it ended because everyone united their strength as they created their own future...you helped make that possible...I may be called the Hero of that War but the real heroes are the people who helped me finish it." he said, trying to get his thoughts together."What i'm trying to say is, if something is bothering you, or if you need my help with something, just let me know."

Unlike the last time he told her this, he actually had no idea what he was gonna do since the problem itself remained a mystery to him, for now he hopes she would let him help rather than try to shoulder the problems by herself like before.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 18, 2015, 04:32:31 PM: Yugure kept her arms folded, listening to Tsubasa speak. The woman was rather surprised at the notion of rebuilding an entire house by himself and friends. Hopefully, one of his associates happened to be a professional at construction work, as even small scale construction sounded like a nightmare for those that didn't know what they were doing. Then again, she didn't know anything about building houses. Before getting to respond to how his year went, he began talking about the War of Liberation. That's when his intentions became incredibly obvious, knowing what he was trying to get out of her without the added ending.

"Nonsense", she spoke. "You're as much of a real hero as you are blatant."

It was better to ease him into it.

"What I'd like to tell you must be kept under wraps. First, I need to see something from you. You should have Gold Paladin in the form of the Liberators. I would like you to fight me with that, however... you should also have Ahmes as a card in his new position. May I see it for a moment?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: OverDrive on September 18, 2015, 05:03:41 PM: Tsubasa appreciated the kind words but he was not sure what to make of the 'blatant' comment, could all this bonding and friendship stuff be softening him too much? No...To him it made him stronger the War of Liberation was proof of such.

"..Heh I appreciate it.." he said, placing his hand at the back of his head.

Upon the mention of the Liberators he instantly became a bit more serious, "How did she know that I have the Liberators...guess i'll find out now." he thought.

"..You're right, I have the Liberators, and here is Ahmes in Liberators form." he said, handing her the card.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 18, 2015, 05:14:04 PM: "Thank you", Yugure gave gratitude through words. She took the card and tapped a fingernail on it. In response, Blaster Blade Liberator gave off a blue glow that reacted with her bladed pupils. The woman's digits dipped into the card, and the Sword of Courage was pulled out of it, with a new golden hilt design. Handing the card back to its owner, the inheritor of Meister got to work. The weapon shining with the same colored aura as her eyes, three outlines appeared under he floating sword in a circular shape. Hands traced the blueprints like an artist's paint brush on a palette. Duplicate after duplicate, they spun as if they were hands of a clock, eventually being completed as a set. Finally, the blades turned into four cards, and stacked themselves into the hands of the blacksmith heiress.

Once again, the mysterious abilities of Blaster Meister had been displayed.

Yukino reached toward her waist with the free hand, shoving her jacket back to reveal three deck cases equipped to a belt. The yellow one was opened, and a deck was pulled out. The Blaster Blades were added to it.

"Alright, we can start now."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 18, 2015, 07:59:43 PM: As expected, the two of them were using Liberators. Yugure's eyes focused mostly on Tsubasa and his moves, judging his skill with his clan's new transferred warriors. In those bladed eyes reflected... the same thing as a year ago. Nothing changed as far as she could see. This was the same Hero of Liberation from the past, the one Ezel and the Blasters of Fate acknowledged. It would make sense if this passing time was uneventful and didn't call for change from anyone here, so it was nothing to hold against him. Still, the Chosen Sword requested the Hero's aid in an oncoming invasion. He reacted with anger in his tone, but the resolve was enough for her.

Holy Shine Dragon stood on her side, and Alfred came down to Break Ride on his. That's when she spoke: "We can stop here."

Yugure ended the fight abruptly, seeing no need for them to finish. "Keep this matter between us, as spreading this info nonchalantly results in panic", she forewarned. Her deck seemed to... magically float back into its case. In fact, the entire fight, her arms were folded, and cards moved on their own.

"I want to note something, however. ... This upcoming fight... is borderline hopeless, from what I've seen. Once they're here, focus on surviving more than defeating them for the time being. A gaping hole will open eventually, and we'll destroy them when we see it."

The last sentence was spoke with seething venom. Mostly stoic the entire time of her return - this is the rawest emotion she expressed. This matter filled her with a mix of feelings, but anger was a very prominent one.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: OverDrive on September 19, 2015, 12:50:21 AM: Yukino's display of controlling her cards without actually holding them truly made Tsubasa stare in amazement, it made him wonder what she possibly went through over that 1 year to be able to do this, the blaster blade cloning was one thing but this was just...truly a sight to see.

"..I'll keep this information a secret, but you can count on me, I won't hesitate to help you out if you need me." he said, collecting his cards, they were almost evenly matched so he could understand that she was merely testing him.

Upon realization of the time, he immediately gasps and decides that he must go, "..OH, sorry Yukino I gotta go, here -writes number on paper- contact me if you need me but I need to hurry." he said, taking off at high speed.

"...I won't let them....I won't...I won't lose Haruto and my friends again!!" he thought, as he continued running.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on September 22, 2015, 09:45:30 PM: He sort of forgot to respond to the text. No he definitely forgot to respond to the text. He just darted out of the coffee shop and started checking stores for anything nice he could get Yukino. Haruka spent a solid ten minutes in a jewelry store before realizing that Yukino doesn't really wear a ton of jewelry as of recently. What would she even like anymore? No jewelry, she had all the clothing she could ever ask for, a ring might be a bit too soon...

Hmm.

His decision was made on a rather small trinket, it was cute and would do the trick. Haruka mad-dashed it over to the Espoir Estate. His stamina must be improving because after a nearly full mile and then some jog, he made it without breaking a sweat. Definitely healthier than he had been last time he stayed in this house. In fact the last time he remembered staying in this house was the night he spent in Yukino's room, and that's when Sera had just started arriving... Weird to think they were all close now, and even casually talked from time to time.

Heading in, like Yukino said, was a breeze. He fixed his tie, ruffled up his hair, and opened the front door. Nostalgia hit him in small waves. He sent another text, not to be rude by yelling in the house.

"im here! gonna say hi to butler-san. err, can you come down and get me? its been awhile since ive been around and dont remember the place too well. -haru"

Haruka only remembered how to get to the kitchen effectively, which is exactly where he went.

Made coffee. Chatted with Butler-san after over a year. Apparently he plays Nova Grapplers now! Haruka was surprised he even knew how to play Vanguard, but now that he had knowledge of his, he was excited for a debut battle with him one day. Until then, he sipped his favorite coffee, awaiting on his Queen to collect him.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 22, 2015, 10:11:33 PM: Yugure traversed about the manor without her jacket, dealing with several duties instead of relaxing. Home doubled as a base of operations, mostly getting through paperwork with father required to get special permissions. The girl and lion man had a heart-to-heart: "Paperwork sucks". Being an adult was hard when most of the effort came through repeated signatures, trying to avoid some asinine scam. Told that preparations were proceeding smoothly beyond this, the queen was allowed a break. A text had been sent to her boyfriend, and some time later, they were informed Haruka had arrived. Her phone buzzed with his new text to confirm.

Coming downstairs, the woman tried to get feeling back in her arms. It took a bit with stretching and rhythmic finger bending, but they ceased being numb when seeing Haruka and the butler.

"Hey..." A greeting with a soft smile was given.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on September 22, 2015, 10:24:03 PM: Haruka raised a mischievous eyebrow.

"Hey...? Just, hey? Hmm, I expected more out of you, darling." Haruka sets his cup down, hopping out of his seat and over to Yukino with a few elongated steps. He took his sweet time making his way even within arms reach to her. She seemed a bit tired though and that already made Haruka start to worry a bit. There was probably no way Yukino was going to enjoy herself if she was dozing off while he was here.

"You alright there, Yukino? Seem really... out of it." Haruka waved a hand in front of her for emphasis. He was tired too, for sure. After a long day of work and a couple Cardfights, he wasn't in tip top condition either. Time to break out the gifts.

"Well, maybe this will help....?" Haruka reaches into his back pocket, holding something tightly in his hand. It was a really cute little set of charms, actually sort of nostalgic.

It was two good-luck charms. Two pairs of swords. Overlord's and Ahmes'. One each. Haruka had forgot for a long time that Overlord even had a sword, considering all he ever saw when he envisioned Overlord was a lot of fire. It's also kind of weird that a little trinket shop actually had these. But he found them after a bit of searching. They were more expensive than he thought though....

"Like 'em?" Haruka asked.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 22, 2015, 10:51:48 PM: "Be lucky I didn't just attack you instead", the love crazed animal retorted, recalling how she almost did last night. Being deprived of affection only helped the build up, making the burst stronger when it would happen. He seemed concerned for her health as he approached, while she could ask the same of what he asked. The warrior's ungloved hand lightly grabbed at his, bringing it down and rubbing a thumb on the palm. A silent nod was the response. No time to be exhausted with war plans on top of spending time with her beloved.

Haruka mentioned something that could help, reaching into his pocket. The queen's attention focused on that hand to see what was coming. A pleasant surprise: matching charms of two of Cray's most prominent figures' weapons. Blaster Blade and the Winds of the Apocalypse's personal sword. Yugure's eyes lit up, a happy gasp of awe being released upon seeing them.

"I-I love them... where did you even..." Despite asking, she didn't really care where he got them. Just ecstatic over him getting them for the couple. One was gently clutched in hand, treasuring the gift as if it were a child.

"I got you something too, but..." It wasn't nearly as good as this. The soldier actually wanted to refrain from giving it to him, thinking she could do leagues better if he could conjure up this. The little craftsman in her was still high on joy from the beauty of the present.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on September 22, 2015, 11:14:54 PM: Haruka was already smiling at her reaction. She seemed girlier than ever the way she responded to his gifts. Haruka was actually already moving in for a kiss to help seal up a little bit of the emotion but she mentioned getting something too?

He tilted his head, with a small grin forming.

"What did you get me babe? I promise I'll love it. Hell, you could have bought me a giant grey rock, and I'd love that. Seriously. I'm sure whatever you got me will be a million times more special because it's from you." He used the free hand he had to pet her like usual. She seemed to respond well to it, but he didn't want to take advantage of it too often to calm her down. Like anything else, only in moderation.

"But I am so so so glad you like what I got. It was sort of last minute and I honestly didn't expect them to be in the same box. But then they were and I uh, dropped a few thousand yen on them."

About $25.00 for each trinket. Not a horrendous price, but for the size of the tiny things, people might have called him outrageous. He didn't care. All he wanted was to make Yukino happy right now. Making everything perfect before he left for his trip to wherever he and the Cardfight Club were going was crucial. But he felt sick to his stomach knowing he had to leave her presence again.

He shook his head a little, then nodded to her.

"So, whatcha' get me then?" His eyes lit up like Christmas lights. Or forest fires. Green and red all the same, right?
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 23, 2015, 12:02:12 AM: Yugure saw him leaning forward and immediately pecked him on the lips, then turned back to the gift in hand. It was rather peculiar to see the rigid soldier so... unguarded. Then he asked for the gift, and she got a bit nervous. Hearing him swear that he'd even like a giant rock didn't help calm her any. In fact, that made it worse. If her present sucked, he'd like it just to like it. He wouldn't be impressed or awestruck by the thought, simply "it's the thought that counts" wouldn't be enough.

Then Haruka started petting her again. Pupils nearly morphed into hearts before reminded she needs to get a hold of herself. Right, calm, relax, breathe. A sigh, happy to hear that he's happy, but her gift... It probably wasn't worth the money he spent on his. Even so, looking into his excited gaze forced the soldier to mentally wave a white flag of surrender. Not giving it to him would be even worse than it being inferior. Yugure requested someone fetch a watch from father's office, as the duo of the family shared it all day.

A maid arrived, handing it to the queen. Turning to Haruka, a... rather feminine wristwatch was presented. A red exterior with a heart shaped design, having navy blue, purple, and gold colored hands ticking about behind glass. Each color was supposed to represent the four clans they used, but she didn't say it out loud. A bit of an embarrassing touch, as the multiple colors seemed more tacky than convenient.

"I... made this", the woman confessed. Being a magical blacksmith brought interest in making art beyond weaponry. Unfortunately, that was difficult with powers. It took much assistance to get the device together as fast as they did. Though proud of her first handmade creation, the opinion of her sweetheart took greater precedent. Even so, she shyly cast a gaze off into the distance.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on September 23, 2015, 12:17:01 AM: Haruka looked at the watch, then took it into his hands. At first his reaction was, well, sort of blank. His heart was searching for the right response here, because he honestly had no idea how to explain to Yukino how much he loved the gift. But it was, in reality, far more difficult to express it normally. He blinked for only a moment before a small smile formed. That small smile became a somewhat bigger grin. Then a simper.

He had his arms wrapped around her saying, "Thank you, Yukino!!!! I love it!!," much faster than he anticipated. He didn't know how else to thank her than the formal thank you, but he was a bit too excited to see what she had got him. The sentiment behind it. It was far different than what he had expected. He honestly expected some giant sword or yet, an axe or something like that.

But she... She made this? SHE MADE THIS!

Haruka was in a state of ecstatic happiness. He honestly was just completely speechless. He took no more than a minute or so to fix the watch to his wrist. He even rolled up the sleeves of his uniform to show it off. It was weird having something so colorful attached to him after wearing nothing but black and white for so long.

"H-Hey... Thank you, Yukino. I appreciate it a lot. It's so much better than what I did. You actually made something... for me! That's crazy! I just spent a bit of money on something I thought was cute but this is really something else... Mmm, god I love you so much." Once more, he embraced her. He was perhaps a bit... too excited about this. But there was no other way to show he meant it.

"Ahh... This is awesome. I actually never had a watch before. I used to have a fancy little chain watch thing my Uncle gave me before I went to middle school but I broke that. This is nice, I appreciate it."

He pulled her in close for a moment, getting close to her ear.

"The heart was a nice touch." He smiled, kissing her cheek.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 23, 2015, 01:02:22 AM: Yugure was rather terrified, more scared than when the nightmares she had a year ago kept repeating. As a soldier, you should not fear danger. In battles, blood will spill, yours included. As a result, the woman learned the pain of physical wounds was not something to dread. No... instead, she dreaded not being able to make him happy. This fright quickly vanished when he started grinning like a giddy schoolgirl. Suddenly finding herself in his embrace, she was pleased with his reaction.

He liked it... This pleasant thought repeated itself for a few moments. Watching him quickly throw it on kept her smiling. The Meister still didn't think it was better than his gift, personally, as she slapped together a bunch of random themes that'd make him think of her. In addition to that, it was designed as if she expected to wear it herself. Hence the girlish look. Still, seeing the thrill he conveyed brought her joy she hadn't felt in years.

"It's weird... Your gift isn't gaudy or anything, it's better than mine. I'm sorry... I love you too-" Yugure tried to keep her pride down, apologizing for the mess of a trinket presented. However, this ceased when Haruka squeezed at her again. Cutely mewling in response, arms wrapped around him in turn.

"I wanted to give you something that would remind you of me, even if we had to be apart... You don't have to worry about it breaking or anything, I can use my powers to fix it."

It wasn't replicated by magic, but it was still using mystic workings as a power source.

He got a bit close to her ear, and his nearby breathing was setting her off a bit. Thighs fidgeting, rubbing together, she muttered: "I'm glad you like it."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on September 23, 2015, 01:16:26 AM: "Y-Yukino... you okay over there?" Haruka whispered. He ran his hand and down her back gently, barely grazing the nape of her neck and every time he reached up.

"You seem a bit antsy." He kept up this tone of voice, breathy and close to her ear. She seemed to have really cute reactions when you teased her like that. Haruka wasn't usually that kind of devious, but messing around once in awhile was healthy for the soul. And Yukino had a lot of soul she needed to let have a break from work. She was obviously fatigued after all that soldier work, and he wasn't about to let the opportunity go to waste.

"We can take this upstairs if you want? I'm sure you don't want the staff to see you like this? Besides, it's easier to talk in private, yeah?" Haruka took one of Yukino's hands in his, slowly leading her out of the kitchen area, interlocking his fingers with hers, maintaining eye contact. That was probably the most important part of the spell. His attention was all her's, and all on her.

"To your room?" He smiled, gesturing forward. He didn't know where it was anymore. It's up to her to lead him around for now. Haruka was happy he finally got a night to himself with Yukino. This hadn't happened in a long, long time.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 23, 2015, 01:50:21 AM: "Y-Yeah... Yeah..." Yugure responded, thought a bit mindlessly. "Antsy" was putting it lightly, as she had a lot of inner frustration to work out. Honestly, the woman wanted to knock him out after the first two questions considering his actions. He knew, seeing her squirm. The movement of his caressing her back... whispering softly to ear... goddamn this man, making her lightly moan. This feeling of agitation was completely foreign, a new kind of impatience for a craving unable to be described. He mentioned the staff seeing her like this - who cares? They're getting paid, so they shouldn't complain even if their orders were to watch paint dry.

Admittedly, however, the man had a point. Not a point that was coherently reasoned out in the mess of the soldier's state of mind, but a point nonetheless. Private quarters of the queen were a suitable destination. Having a hand taken by her dearest, longingly staring at him for as long as possible, she was led out of the kitchen. It barely occurred to the animal that Haruka forgot where her room was.

Tightly gripping at his hand, Yugure led him up the stairs, through the hallway, into her room.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on September 26, 2015, 04:42:20 PM: A week later...

The dreams were incessant. Ever since that day in New York with the nightmares of burning fields and those lithe pale arms wrapping around him, Haruka was still a bit phobic when it came to sleeping. He often just passed out and hoped throughout the night he would just blank through it. That happened about three-out-of-four times. The other fourth, well, Haruka woke up in a sweat, nearly shouting.

That was almost the case this time. He woke up from the fingertips of those arms digging into his sides. Haruka shot up, disheveled hair and half-buttoned sleep shirt. Yukino was still fast asleep on his left apparently. She must have been a heavy sleeper because over the course of the week, Haruka had these dreams three times in a row and all three times she seemed to just doze right through all of it. Lucky.

After a few good minutes of just taking slow, deep breaths and rationalizing, Haruka climbed out of bed, careful to not wake up his beloved from her slumber. Not like she would anyways, she was pretty much a rock this past week when it came to sleeping. He trudged over to the armchair in the corner of the room where he had his outfit for the day laid out. Nothing too complicated, dark blue jeans, red tank top and a green army-styled jacket with combat boots. Haruka had become fond of casual wear again instead of suiting up everyday. It suited his dynamic more anyways; he wasn't very formal to begin with as a person.

Downstairs was the normal cup of coffee prepared as always. Butler-san was getting better at it everyday. He was also a much better Nova Grappler player than Haruka was, for sure. Butler-san often took games off of Haruka in the morning before school. He had no idea if Butler-san was just a better Nova player than Haruka was a Kagero player, or Butler-san was just overall more intuitive to the game of Vanguard. Strange.

Today was a school day, but Haruka ended up skipping due to a recent transition he's been having in his daily routine, as he had been doing late night shifts at work. This means that he would have to sleep and miss the half-days on Saturday. He spent the remaining free-time with Butler-san in the kitchen, usually either waiting for Yukino to wake up and head downstairs herself, or he would get a headstart into the day. That was actually the plan this time, as after he finished his second cup of coffee, he ended up dashing out the door with a wave and a thanks.

Where to today... hmmm?
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Lance Korilum on September 30, 2015, 10:04:21 PM: On his way to the mansion, Cero experienced some unforeseen delays (He had to ride the horse on the walls of buildings instead of the street), causing him to take significantly longer than anticipated. Upon arrival, the horse leaped over the gate into the yard of the Espoirs. Several servants come out to see Cero dismount the horse.

"Stable this horse. Do not do anything else to this horse. Do not touch it directly. Do not approach it with any kind of weapon. Do not look at it wrong. Do nothing that could make it feel even slightly threatened," Cero said before leaving the Espoir mansion behind. The servants weren't exactly certain whether or not to heed the words of the maniac who had just leaped into their master's yard with a horse and left the horse in their care. One of them, luckily, recognized the man and made sure that no one did anything to the magical physics-defying horse.

Cero was now en route to continue the fight against Reverse, likely without allies unless he ran into them on the way.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 30, 2015, 10:09:36 PM: It's begun.

Yugure had been awoken from a stasis chamber and led back home in a daze. Immediately upon return, reports flooded in, and her phone was showing an enormous amount of missed calls and texts. There was little time to even attend to them with voices ringing in mind. Alfred informed the Chosen Sword about the Liberators being nearly wiped out, yet, she wasn't too surprised about it. More thankful as many as possible came out alive.

"Ugh..." she groaned, hearing about their HQ already being contaminated with that virus. Even worse, Satoshi's prolonged markings were likely out of her control by now. Seifer needed to speak with her too, and she could only hope neither of them were killed or harvested. The paladins seemed alright... for now, but she wasn't aware of further devastation. Making a preemptive inquiry, Dragon Empire's and Zoo's situations were requested. Leopald's rampage was brought to the queen's attention. In addition to that, something happened to Vowing Sword and Gauntlet Buster.

"Look into Dark Zone."

An odd order but Jewel Knights immediately left the hall of her mind to do so. Yugure needed to check on the Umano situation, as nobody was answering her from there. Satoshi and Seifer were more pressing matters, along with Cero's condition if the Training Facility was overrun.

Pushing servants aside and giving them tasks, it was time for the soldier herself to advance. Leaving out of the manor's front doors, she was greeted with the sight of Cero's horse leaping into their yard. It was being left here...?

"Cero!" Yugure shouted, running after him.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Lance Korilum on September 30, 2015, 10:19:41 PM: Cero turned around just before the gate, looking back at Yugure running after him. He was tempted to simply ignore her and continue on his way to liberate the Training Facility, but decided against it. Her skills and knowledge of the invaders would be valuable, and it would be foolish to rush back in there without a plan. Once she had caught up, he asked simply, "What is it?" The look in his eyes was one filled with determination, defiant of the invaders.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 30, 2015, 10:25:21 PM: "What happened to the Training Facility?"

There was no wasting time with greetings. That look in his eye and her own focused resolve on seeing humanity survive made the King and Queen get down to business as soon as possible. The reports already told the base was under the control of someone infected, but seeing Cero here instead of there means it's likely worse than stated. It's a miracle to even see him intact as it is.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Lance Korilum on September 30, 2015, 10:29:45 PM: Cero was silent for a moment, disgusted at the fact that he allowed these events to transpire. "Completely overrun. I had to abandon it, their sheer numbers were nigh impossible to overcome." He looked at the ground as he said, the disdain and frustration loud and clear in his voice, with a fist clenched. That Training Facility was exactly what the enemy wanted in the end, a collection of powerful fighters all wrapped up in a fancy glass bow.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on September 30, 2015, 10:39:54 PM: Gritting her teeth, Yugure expected this answer. It was simply harder to swallow to see that the prideful Cero had to submit to retreating. "Damn it..." she cursed, looking off to the side. The fury in the king's heart will be answered with overtaking the base back, especially judging by the texts of the Cardfight Club Yugure's phone was registered into. Hana was over there, and they were going to gather for getting a hold of the situation.

"As it stands, we're not going to be able to get it back", is the honest truth that came out of her mouth. Espoir geniuses and Cero's diligent trainees, along with the one who had led the takeover would surely trample over the duo. "We need backup."

Seifer, Satoshi... Haruka. Hana probably charged in, despite the overwhelming numbers. If she could get through to the ringleader and take it back with whatever unit she took with her... this will tip back into their favor somewhat.

... If she took a unit with her.

No, nonsense. Yugure knew Hana, the princess wasn't stupid.

"I'm heading to someone's house to get some reinforcements. I recommend you find whoever you can and do the same."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Lance Korilum on September 30, 2015, 10:47:11 PM: Cero was reluctant to follow Yugure's advice to find back-up, but he knew there was no chance with just the two of them, possibly three if Hana was still fine. They were all skilled fighters, but the sheer advantage that the Reverse fighters had in numbers was too great. "Alright," he relented, "I'll search the shopping district, and we'll meet back here as soon as possible." With this, Cero set out in search of allies to the Resistance.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on October 01, 2015, 12:13:39 PM: The Princess was called to an audience by The King early in the morning in order to discuss the current events.

Star Rain and Garmore insisted that she accessed the King's Audience Hall using the Sanctuary behind the Espoir Manor. She used to use it to attend the council meetings and send her image as her powers were still largely undeveloped and it functioned as an enhancer back then. Nowadays, she really has no need for it, but since the two paladins kept on insisting, she followed along.

"Welcome home, Hana!" Her parents welcomed her and both ran to her to embrace her as she entered the Manor gates, something that she has not done in so long.
"You're so fit and mature looking now! So cute, aww you had a growth spurt just like your mom!" Mom-san pinched her cheeks as she held her in a motherly embrace which felt more like a bear hug due to her sheer strength.
"T-Thamksm Mam-sen." She said as he face was being squished by the Chief Nurse.

Speaking of bears. Lions.

"How have you been? Anyone treat you wrongly? I shall destroy them." He held both of them within his grasp, and he still had a large arm length left to spare, enough for Yukino most likely. It's how the family man of a half-man and half-lion was designed.

It seems that Yukino wasn't home, and when inquired about her, the two stated that she should wait until after breakfast. It wasn't a full family meal like they used to have since Yukino wasn't present, but it was close. Dad-san was there with his over-protective remarks and often far too serious attitude. Mom-san, meanwhile argued with Shamsiel as the Bermuda Triangle units looked at Hana with judging eyes saying. "This is basically you too." Hana had forgotten how it was to spend time with them, and they didn't seem to hold it against her that she had been gone for so long. They more or less asked about it just to get to know her. In Dad-san's case, to look for someone who has done her wrong.

"How's the idol career?"
"Is your manager treating you right?"
"Do you need any help?"
"How's Pr<3ism?"
"Are you doing alright living by yourself?"

After the flurries of questions, they saved the one that she knew react to most for last.

"How's Miyuki?"

Dad-san and Mom-san knew about their relationship, and in both of their cases, they really liked Miyuki and have been actually the ones helping to keep the condition a secret from her parents. Dad-san always imagined that both of his daughters would find men to be with one day and was caught by surprise when told about her daughter's choice. Though, after some though, especially looking back at the relationship the two had, he had no reason to reject and gave him blessing to them. Hana looked down at her plate, unknowingly playing with her food a little as she was lost in deep thought. Guilt? Still there. Frustration? All the way. How about happiness? Forget the other two, that's what Hana definitely was.

"Ah, she isn't doing well still, but Mom-san's nurses are helping a lot! She is able to wake up occasionally and we are able to spend time together. Even if it's just by her bedside and in my home, I am happy.. really really happy to be with her."

Mom-san stood up and gave her a pat on the back while Dad-san gave a smile and a thumbs up. "Sorry that I can't do much.. it's a disease that I've never encountered before..." The Nurse said apologetically. There was no need to apologize in Mom-san's case, since in terms of physical condition, Miyuki has been kept in such a shape that she could be a professional athlete. She was healthy as can possibly be, the only issue was really, the invaders. Hana wondered if the two knew about them. Dad-san probably did, but it was best to save that for another time if possible.

After dinner, Mom-san had to make preparations for her next trip and Dad-san had to return to his office to work. Hana had to go ahead and do the same.

Upon reaching the King's Audience Hall, she saw three warriors awaiting her. It seems that Ahmes was absent at the moment. She walked on towards the King's throne and gave a bow as this was his domain. After that she was given a signal to raised her head, the conversation was now to begin.

"Did you enjoy your meal with the Lion and the Chief Nurse?" The King smiled.
"Of course!" She gave a peace sign, "... wait that was your idea?" She asked, taken aback by the fact.
"No, No.." The King shook his head, "It was Gancelot's!"

Hana turned over to see him, the knight who was smiling proudly, with a somewhat nerdy smirk. It was weird to see him like that especially since she's always known him as being a stone-faced loner. The King, she could understand, but Gancelot's idea?... Isn't he... Alone... Alone? Solitary?... His armor had changed as well, to a more golden and much for firmer look, as if he had evolved and rached a higher rank, his Zenith.

"It was my idea to call you here." Gancelot confessed. "I know you are wondering of Ahmes whereabouts, as well as Yukino's. Rest assured, they are together at the current moment and protecting one another."
"I dunno Dancealot, I never expected you to be as cheesy as Alfred here." She turned her had a little, teasing the knight.
"Ah well, yesterday I received his blessing!" He let out a hearty laugh.
"Goodness gracious, the explains a lot!" Her eyes widened.
"Ah, well let me explain the events of yesterday." Gancelot began.
"I'm sorry," She bowed her head down, "I know I was supposed to meet up with them, but the large amount of reversed fighters in the Shopping District as well as Miyuki's conditioning worsening that night I-.."
"It's alright man!" Garmore assured her. Seeing as how he was with her and slacking as well, he was also trying to cover his trail.
"It's not about that..." The King turned to Garmore.

Gancelot went over to Hana and placed a hand on her shoulder, his eyes looking into hers as he understood her now. She realized it then, that he really did learn something, something that he wanted to convey to her too, that they were no longer alone.

"The power bonds that you spoke of with Daiyusha... the true justice that you told him about, he told us that those words saved him. I wanted to offer something to you as well for the sake of one of my Vanguards... your sister, and for your sake as well, our Princess." He prepared himself to speak once more, "Yesterday we fought against the enemy, almost defeated, wiped out... your sister and I were most of all shaken beyond anything. She feared failure once again."

Hana turned away a little. She had already forgiven her, except for that part, but that's what Gancelot was trying to get at.

"Families are bonds, and it seems that for the longest time, you've given it up in your attempt to become more independent. You see family as weakness don't you, a reliance on your father, mother, and even your sister." The Knight saw within her heart.

"Forgive you sister completely, and see her as she is again. She didn't fail yesterday, we succeeded and evolved... together."

It was the truth, Hana had moved away from her family and distanced herself in order to be her own person, to seem less reliant on those who raised her and be taken more seriously as someone who was a subordinate sister to no one. Her inferiority complex had her forget the bonds that the families had, even getting angry at the Espoir destiny.

"Share the destiny with your sister." Alfred added, "You two are among the greatest warriors whom I've met. Hmmm... Speaking performance wise, a powerful duet?"
"Alfred, stahp." Garmore facepalmed.

They spoke the truth, except for Garmore. Hana covered her face for a moment, a revelation was brought to her by these knights. She entered deep thought. The conversation went on and on.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cipher Izanagi on October 04, 2015, 08:09:32 PM: It took them a little bit longer to get here to the mansion, the place listed in the address given to him by Yukino. It was... Massive. So it seemed. Seifer had never been near, nor lived near anything like this. The entire way, Rosalia helped an exhausted Seifer along to the mansion. "Wow... it's... pretty big. Where do I start..." looking around at the gate they stopped at he saw the intercom... thing, that was on the side. He pressed his finger against the button, pressing it down fully and waiting for a response. He was actually admittedly a bit nervous. Going somewhere like this was rather unnerving to him, but he had to suck it up. He understand what Yukino had meant in the last text, so he might as well go to her.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 04, 2015, 08:13:57 PM: "You have guests-"

"Let them in and lead them to my work room."

Yugure cut off the servant, having no time for anything that can be cut down to five seconds short. The queen had been given one of her father's old work rooms. It was like a garage, having an abundance of tools, shelves, and cleared tables. Well, usually cleared. At the moment, metal rings, small green chips, and other devices were scattered about on several desks. The woman's jacket and gloves had been removed, along with her boots to help her cool down and relax. Using a magic drill of sorts, she began poking a hole into one of the steel circles.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: RosaliaIzanami on October 04, 2015, 08:17:43 PM: Rosalia kept quiet for most of the walk, wondering just what their destination would be like. She could imagine what the mansion would be like... but what she saw in reality was nothing like what she pictured in her head. "Woaaaaaah.... This place is huuuuuuuuge... Oh, oops.... Sorry, I'll be quiet..." she muttered to herself, watching Seifer push the button. But with how big it was on the outside, maybe it was like one of the magic boxes where it was even bigger on the inside. At least it would probably seem that way..
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cipher Izanagi on October 04, 2015, 08:22:13 PM: That was fast. Seifer and Rosalia were lead inside to the work room by one of the servants, who shut it behind them, Butler-San? He seemed kind of lonely... For some reason. What was going on? Was something wrong with Yukino, or was it because... He didn't want to think about the last thing he'd told Yukino about Haruka... Seifer however took this time to try and stand on his own, almost failing on wobbly legs before standing straight. He looked exhausted, like he'd just gone five rounds with a professional wrestler or something. He stared right at Yukino though. "Sorry it took us so long." he spoke that part quickly before glancing to the side. "I'm also sorry for bothering you while you're working."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: RosaliaIzanami on October 04, 2015, 08:28:43 PM: Rosalia followed into the mansion, careful to keep her hands to herself like a child in a museum full of shiny and very breakable things. She kept one hand entwined with Seifer's though. The other remained at her side where her deck sat. It still made her happy to know what changed in her deck. It just made everything better, and gave the female confidence... Save for the intimidation she felt merely walking the halls. When they found Yugure, or were led to her, whatever, the redhead waved but otherwise was quiet, looking at the room from where she stood.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 04, 2015, 08:35:17 PM: Butler-san simply bowed as he left them to his mistress.

"It's no problem, was everything alright over there?" Yugure had the drill vanish into thin air and made her inquiry. It was strange how something seemed to come up out of the blue, and seeing an exhausted Seifer basically spelled harsh travels. The barefooted queen left the current desk she had been working on, grabbing a couple tools and more metal rings, examining the objects, then tossing them to that table nonchalantly. Whatever didn't land on the floor was useful, whatever else was useless. A very bad ideology for a craftswoman, but she's magic, so she can make up whatever she wants.

The woman also responded to Rosalia's wave by greeting her back in the same manner with a smile.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cipher Izanagi on October 04, 2015, 08:38:58 PM: "The Reverse were waiting for us as we left the house. I fought as many as I could, but I did a stupid... I fought three at a time each time, and sort of... Over used Dragruler's power." he reached into the Shadow Paladin deck he had, holding up the card to show Mordred's evolution. Putting it back though he weakly gestured to Rosalia. "She fought off the rest and... I think you'll be surprised to hear that Luquier Reverse evolved. It's now Venus Luquier. Apparently she is using the Reverse's energy still left in her to her advantage." that wasn't what he wanted to talk to Yukino about, but for now, he figured that was more important than his dreams. Plus he was glad for Rose.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: RosaliaIzanami on October 04, 2015, 08:45:08 PM: Rosalia felt her face heat up from being praised, but withdrew her deck anyways. However, as she showed Yugure the cards, there were three. The first was obvious, the original Tamer Luquier form. The second was Reverse Luquier as Yugure had seen before. The third, however, was a white and red haired Venus Luquier. The fact that Rosalia had all three forms was probably strange. "Truth be told, I'm not really sure why I have all three. But I'm actually glad for it. But to sum it all up, I think Luquier is happy again... So Dark Zone is getting better with the invasion I guess?.." She wasn't sure what else to say at this point. It seemed that the redhead had a knack for surprising Yugure... Maybe that wouldn't happen after a while. It seemed they were spending more and more time together. At least, Rosalia hoped they could become better friends...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 04, 2015, 09:01:23 PM: I want a new report on Dark Zone. I doubt this means Amon is freed of Reverse, but confirming the entirety of Pale Moon's state is important.

Revengers were deployed with that order.

Yugure showed concern from hearing they were faced with a horde of infected fighters. Even if the duo came out alright and not Reversed, it was obviously still taxing. While happy to hear of Luquier's evolution... Mordred's was surprising. This true form of the phantom that eluded most of the Sanctuary's analyzing of his true identity... His name would bring mass panic and chaos. However, as a Revenger, it seems he has become an Abyss Dragon that won't give paladins a reason to fear. Guarded behind his majestic, red cape, declaring a vow, this being's name was...

"There's a couple chairs over there if you need a seat", the woman pointed to seating nearby the couple at the door. "I'm glad to hear you're both alright, and just as glad to hear you obtain these new powers. ... However, still having the Reverse unit..."

Why on Earth did Rosalia still have an infected card? After being unreversed, and now evolving, that should have been long gone...

"I'll try to figure it out when I'm done here. That aside, however, good work you two", the soldier praised. "Though, I assume that isn't all you came to tell me."

More rings sliding off the table. Was it that hard for her to just carry and set them down normally?
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cipher Izanagi on October 04, 2015, 09:14:17 PM: Seifer gratefully lead Rosalia sit down and was actually very happy at the praise. However instead of sitting down himself, he caught some of the rings... Assuming he could anyway.

"You look like you could use some help but... Yeah, you're right. That wasn't the reason we came here." Seifer stood fully this time, staring at Yukino. "I'm going to detail everything I can about the dream... Where to start..." the male hesitated for a moment before taking in a breath to start.

"When I "woke up" in the dream, I was in side of an old shrine. I didn't know where it was at, but the units I saw... Bellicosity Dragon, Dragoinc Burnout... Dragon Dancers Monica and Barbara... Gatling Claw Dragon... and several more Dragon Dancers I didn't recognize as well as Dragon Monk Genjo." he took another breath. "They were doing some kind of ritualistic ceremony, probably directed toward this statue... It was decaying so I couldn't make it out... After..." he paused out of respect, and not wanting to really bring this part up. "After losing my reverse yesterday, I started hearing a voice offering power, though the sentences were broken. ...I tried to ignore it at first, but it kept getting louder and a little bit more clear each time until..." he held his arms apart, similar to a shrug. "I heard the voice. Clearly. From the statue." he let that sink in before continuing.

"It... It spoke to me about it's wish being to fufill my wish. That it had heard what I desired most, and was willing to offer it's power to help me. I didn't feel like it meant anything ill, and it even went so far as to say I had to prove that I was really worth it's choice." he paused to take another breath. "I asked for a name... And it told me once it was time, it was up to me to give it a name... There's also this..." he reached into the deck box that had Kagero holding it out to her to look through. If she decided to take it, she'd find it four cards light, there were no Dragonic Overlords in it, replaced instead with Cruel Dragon... Missing the other four grade threes. But the most peculiar of it all... Was a certain Grade two and Grade one. They themselves were peculiar. They felt ancient, but neither card had any text on them, name or ability text. "I don't know what's happening to it."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: RosaliaIzanami on October 04, 2015, 09:22:19 PM: Rosalia scratched the back of her head when Yugure pointed out her Reverse. She put away her cards away as she took her seat. "Well, I don't think Luquier could really be counted as infected or anything. She's not evil anymore, and Venus is her form to prove two things. One is that she is sane again and fighting to make everything better... But the ends of her hair are still red. She still has some of the invader's power, but she can use it on her own... Maybe that's why Luquier Reverse is still here." The redhead shrugged, not exactly sure if she was right... But it did feel right. Made sense too... At least to her.

While listening to Seifer though, she wondered what his dream meant... She knew her boyfriend had Kagero, but had it changed since she last saw it? She looked over at the cards, wondering what was now missing from the deck... Something special?... Could it stop the Reverse?... That would be nice...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 04, 2015, 09:39:26 PM: Yugure focused on Seifer's story beginning as he caught the metal rings. Toys to give his hands if they wanted something to do, she supposed. This story caught the attention of the King and his right-hand, as did Rosalia's explanation of Luquier Reverse still existing. Just like humans, those cleansed of infection still had the power of the invaders. There was a bit of debate in the Sanctuary on a Dark Zone clan having access to such a thing... Perhaps it wouldn't be too bad. However, the rigid paladins couldn't be too sure. Salome personally had no reason to trust the ringmaster, stating that it's her fault Ashlei is gone.

Wait, Ashlei? The queen took a moment to piece that together, unfortunately blanking out a bit on Seifer's story. Ahmes was listening to the boy intensely, however, so he could tell what she missed. Rosalia had been Reversed, and if the planets were affecting one another... Salome stated that she had several theories. However, Ashlei left to retrieve some members of their squad held hostage, and never came back. That is the only thing that lets the knight know something happened to her usually airheaded friend.

More work.

Yugure turned her attention back to the brunette for now, taking his deck when given it. The swordsman of light explained the dream to his vanguard again as she plucked out the deck. The Flame Dragon clan was laid out on the cluttered table. True enough, Cruel Dragon was here. It was very easy to find these two sets of cards that had no text or identity beyond art peculiar. The Chosen Sword and Paladins were all perplexed. However, it seems Alfred and Ahmes were on to something.

"It seems your deck is morphing to adjust itself to this statue already."

That was her theory, anyway. Whatever this thing is didn't seem it would collaborate with Overlord in the stack of cards. These unknown units had to be a hint... they felt divine to touch, almost. That's how Yugure would describe it. As if they've existed for eons upon eons.

"Yugure, do you mind?" Ahmes requested. Yugure was listening. "I believe I may have an idea of what this thing Seifer saw is. However, I need to confirm at Dragon Empire and..."

And what?

"... Nothing. It's probably best I do not have permission for this task. Better I go undetected."

This was irksome. Blaster Blade was going to do something that only Alfred knew, and nobody else was told.

"Could you have him hold onto one of my cards for now?"

"Ahmes says he has an idea, and would like you to hold onto one of my copies of his card." Yugure spoke, putting the Kagero deck back together, and placing Blaster Blade Liberator on top of it.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Golden Sage NovaRaizer on October 04, 2015, 09:44:56 PM: A text was sent to Yugure, Seifer, and Rosalia as a follow up to what he text them before.

There's kind of a Reverse fighter here and he's fighting my new friend. He's using a clan I've only seen once before. Link Joker.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cipher Izanagi on October 04, 2015, 09:49:38 PM: The brunette watched her quietly as she spoke between her units and him, watching his deck. However, Seifer was surprised at the request, taking the deck and staring at the Blaster Blade Liberator card. He wasn't sure what to say until he felt a hand on his shoulder. Seifer's Yunos. "Alright. I'll let him tag along. Might be for the best." he very carefully placed the deck, or what was left of it, in the Kagero deck case, sealing it so it couldn't fall out. "Thank you, nee-san." he used the same thing he'd used the previous night, more out of impulse than anything. "You have no idea... Just how much this means to me. Your help has meant a lot to me. Even if you just listened." he was surprised he said it but he did, even as he played with the metal rings.

At the text though, Seifer's face contorted. Why couldn't things stay stable for long. He closed the phone turning toward the door to go. Odd he would do it without a word.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: RosaliaIzanami on October 04, 2015, 09:55:57 PM: Rosalia listened quietly, remembering Seifer telling her that he should do most of the talking. She had said her bit with her Luquier situation, so she could let her two companions do what they had to do... In the meantime, the redhead looked at her phone, tilting her head at the mention of Link Joker. The clan wasn't familiar to her... but she sort of remembered Seifer telling her about the War of Liberation and how that was against Link Joker. Those are the invader's, right?... She looked over at her boyfriend, then to what apparently was now Seifer's not-related-by-blood nee-san. Rosalia didn't mind. Maybe it would help her and Yugure become friends...

"M-maybe I should head over there to the facility... I'm not afraid to fight anymore, and I want to help in case Darren and his new friend can't hold up..." she pointed out, but didn't get up from her seat just yet. She did hold tight to her deck though, wondering if her new found strength would be enough to face off against Link Joker. It also reminded her that she still had to get to the school, or tell Seifer and Yugure about it, so they could go save Noel... That will have to wait a moment, since everything else is kind of busy right now...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 04, 2015, 10:04:10 PM: "Take care of that dumb bastard for me", Yunos requested and insulted his rival blaster. Ahmes, however, delivered a swift dropkick. That copy would be his gate to Seifer, not a full takeaway from Yugure. The queen only found herself sweating nervously over how these two seemed to only know how to beat each other up. A little light blush came from hearing nee-san again. So used to hearing "Yukinee" from Hana, and still believing she's a horrible older sister... It was an odd, warm, and somewhat uncomfortable feeling still that responded. Seeing Seifer happy helped keep her mind focused on ending the war instead of wallowing in grief like she did a year ago. The woman was in no way repaired from the heavy tons of emotional wreckage given from yesterday, or any time before that. However, all there was she could do beyond laying still was pressing on for everyone else.

Off to the distance, her phone vibrated. Seeing Seifer's face made it obvious something was wrong. Rushing over to that table, Darren's text was received. How expected. Reversed fighters seem to flock to HQ an annoying lot. The invaders were definitely doing what they could to mess with humanity's countermeasures, but she wasn't having it.

Seeing Seifer leave and Rosalia stay, Yugure donned her jacket, and quickly settled into those yellow boots.

"That's right, you have nothing to fear", she gave the redhead an extra push in confidence. "Luquier responded to your power, utilizing Link Joker's energy not just for the sake of the circus, but her Vanguard as well. That means you're strong, Rosalia. So we need your help."

While also being an invitation to follow to headquarters, it was also a formal invitation to the Resistance army. It looked as if something else was troubling her, and Yugure made sure that the redhead's problems would became the queen's problems.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: RosaliaIzanami on October 04, 2015, 10:12:52 PM: Rosalia looked up at Yugure with a bright smile at the praise. She was grinning ear to ear as she got up and followed closely, and even holding the other female's hand for a moment. Hearing Seifer call the older female 'nee-san', it was more so out of instinct that the redhand wanted to be part of the 'family'. Plus, it just felt nice when she spoke: "Okay, Onee-chan!~" It was like Rosalia was a little kid again, her happiness having returned after Luquier's transformation. She did let go of Yugure's hand though afterwards, in case she felt awkward about it, and skipped a few steps to catch up with Seifer. "Let's go save our friends~"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 04, 2015, 10:20:39 PM: Yugure took her white gloves before a free hand was taken by Rosalia. She looked very happy and- O-Onee-chan?! "Huh?" She was obviously caught off guard. Only Hana referred to her as sister, then Seifer, now Rosalia?! It's... not that the soldier minded family, as much as she'd rather put some distant so they won't get hurt, and she won't either... Just... Hm. This familiar feeling that came from the princess praising her back at base while forgiving her, this unexplained emotion toward the brunette, and now... a confirmed reflex born of this girl's joy.

Yukino Espoir's feelings of being an elder sister were resurfacing.

The fact that Yukino was trying to come up almost made Yugure want to puke, but it was an undeniably refreshing feeling. Still a double edged sword, but took a bit of gravity off her shoulders for the first time in two years.

Yes two.

The Snow Queen Yukino Espoir's ambitions would be fulfilled. This was the stepping stone. Soon, with Hana at the top, everyone shall become her younger sibling. Yes... the world shall call her "onee-sama".

"What in the hell are you thinking about?" Yunos asked.

Yugure shook her head and immediately dashed out with Rosalia. That thought was stupid and Yukino Espoir should feel bad for being stupid.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 05, 2015, 11:57:18 PM: "Nonsense. Humanity had to survive as much as possible before victory was in sight. I didn't say we'd be not going on the offensive forever. We needed to find a weak point, and it has been shown to us." - To Tsubasa

"That was likely Chaos Breaker, and I'll need to hear what you remember tomorrow." - To Darren

The bloodied queen returned home, and immediately headed for her workshop. When servants showed worry over how she was injured and wounded, the woman simply threw power tools at them. They were running out of time, as the Generals began more than forward movement. With Sera showing himself off to the resistance, and knowing the threat of Overlord, her project needed to be completed. Stripping off jacket, boots, and gloves, Yugure came to a desk with a small bangle on it. It was colored white, completely without identity. Touching it, the accessory slowly coated itself in blue, black, and gold colors. Taking a finger off of it, it stopped, and turned white again.

"The Identity System is functioning", she reported to no one in particular. "The Reality Bangle should reach a testable stage in time."

Keeping phone nearby, the queen dedicated herself to this magical device for the night. Ultimately, she couldn't bring herself to send anything back for Haruka's text. Honestly, the girl didn't even look at it. It could've been Sera trying to get into her head, which would result in a destroyed phone. That, or it really was Haruka, which would make things just as painful. Seeing it from Haruka would only make her think of how she can't go to him and romantically throw herself onto him. Feelings like that wouldn't help keep her composure to get him back.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 06, 2015, 01:18:19 AM: He has no idea what possessed him to come here. Haruka was honestly astounded he made it all the way here without Sera turning him around and telling him "no." In fact, Sera had remained quiet, his presence nearly vanished. Maybe he fell asleep? No, they were merged entities. If one was awake, so was the other and if one fell asleep, so did the second.

Regardless, he found himself at the front door. Nobody responded to the empty text, for good reason. It was empty. It was just kind of an expression of sorrow, but he needed words to fix his wrongs. Or at least, this time. Haruka had access to the library of thoughts that Sera possessed, meaning he even knew what he had plans for...

The invasion was coming, and it was coming soon. Reverse already crept in but that's not even half of it. A species, a galactic armada of darkness was coming to turn Earth into essentially one giant black ring. He was running out of time. Yukino first, Hana was back at the amusement park and she was still Reversed last time he saw her. That means telling her this information was party pointless. This is the only place Haruka was going to find anybody...

He rang the doorbell. Anticipation began to grow faster than he ever imagined.

Don't stop me now.

...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 06, 2015, 01:34:26 AM: Butler-san opened the door.

He began weeping, screaming to the heavens in thanks.

"I'll have a meeting at Headquarters tomorrow. What is the concern?" - To Tsubasa

Yugure growled in frustration, constantly running into snags on her device. There were now several white accessory machines sprawled out on tables. A scream of irritation came, throwing a couple of them into the wall, causing them to break apart. "What the hell am I getting wrong?!" The Craftswoman kept seeing malfunctions. Taking a deep breath, which turned into a depressing, long sigh... she crawled onto a cleaned desk. Rolling about, equations and theories ran amok, trying to figure a solution for the Reality Bangle.

The door opened.

"My lady, you-"

Yugure hissed at the maid.

"Y-You have a guest... and it's... well..."

Most likely yet another issue from the army. The Chosen Sword rolled off of the table, which gave the maid a panic attack. Oh, please, the soldier was fine. Getting up, they departed for the front doors. Yugure got used to being caressed by the cool air of the manor's air conditioning, so she went barefoot and gloveless.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 06, 2015, 01:43:10 AM: Haruka gave a small wave to Butler-san as well as a huge smile to see him again. He'd been to hell and back, literally, so this was a lovely reunion. Crashing and yelling came from inside several moments later as he went to notify Yukino of his appearance at the manor. He sort just stared around the well-decorated outside of the building. He had been here so many times.

Haruka spent several moments just reminiscing about all of the things he had been through over the years and how these halls never changed and only the people inside do. A wave of nostalgia, then depression ran over him. He shook his head as footsteps approached him. His heart pounded painfully. Sera's grip. But Haruka knew this from a year ago. The way he did this to keep Haruka from doing what he wanted. But Sera wasn't just taking control... what was wrong with him? Haruka was glad he had enough control of himself now but what was keeping him from fighting back?

She appeared, standing there kind of in her soldier outfit. No gloves. No boots. She seemed more than irritated. Maybe Haruka made the wrong call showing up here considering the events prior only a night ago. Some really terrible things happen. He stood frozen for a moment, just blinking at her. If he didn't say something he might get roundhouse kicked. Or worse.

"Yukino..." He let out her name, slowly reaching out. This was probably the most notable sign Haruka had for anybody. His classic reach, for a shake, to hold a hand, to caress their face, to pat their head. He always had to reach out first so they knew it was him caring for them, understanding them, and not just waiting for something to start. He had to make things start.

"Yu-ki-no..." He smiled lightly reaching out for her. Not sure whether he was reaching for her hand, her face. He was just reaching out for... Well.

Something.

"Are you okay?" The injury was still noticeable, for sure.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 06, 2015, 02:16:43 AM: Yugure walked down the hall with the maid and Butler-san. While gripping her head in a pain, she gave them orders for the war effort. All they really wanted was for their queen to sit down and relax for more than two minutes. Injury or no injury, she rationalized that necessary work came first. Eventually, they reached... the guest. Yugure's heart skipped a bit at seeing Haruka- no. Don't get lured in. It's Sera - the enemy. The servants left the pair be, and fury welled up. How dare Link Joker's Seed himself arrive at doorstep? Did he suddenly feel guilty and want to die for the hell he caused? Worry not, a blade of courage or a claymore of resolution were more than thirsty enough for the Seed's blood.

Instead, Haruka called a name. Not Sera, but her beloved.

It was her name.

He was reaching out again.

No, no, was this Sera messing around with her? Was it really Haruka?

Was it okay to touch him back?

Tentatively, Yugure's hand went out for his as if metal attracted to a magnet. She took it, and wasn't sure what to do with it.

"... Are you?" Was the response to his question.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 06, 2015, 02:23:10 AM: "H-Huh? Oh, I'm fine. I guess. We're fine...? I'm not sure how to address this." He sort of stared at her blankly for a second, making sure everything was real. The poor boy died once, it gets really difficult telling reality from truth these days, so he had to at least do that much.

"Can I come inside. I, uhm. I have some explaining to do." His eyes searched around one last time. He more than nervous, not because he was now with Yukino again, but he was frightfully terrified Sera would come out and constrict the poor boy. Yukino has a sword, but has she fought Sera? According to the annals he has stored in his memory... the thing has killed dragons even. Sera was combat trained to kill and that made Haruka a vessel; a weapon.

He shook a bit as she took his hand, visibly still frightened. Not of her, not at all. Just of what he might do.

"You really should get that checked out, by the way." Haruka said that finally smiling for her. She deserved that much. An honest smile to help keep her stable. He was still shaking but he really wanted to not stand in the doorway while discussing this.

This being the fact he died, came back, and merged with an evil entity seeking to destroy everything. If Yukino was anyone else, there is no way in hell these two would have made it as far as they have now.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 06, 2015, 02:51:01 AM: The endless trembling, the obvious anxiety, relentless nerves, a feeling of responsibility, and still looking out for her well being... Alright... it was him. The man before her was the same one she fell in love with. Hand squeezing his, acceptance was conveyed. Mind you, hearing Sera being fine resulted in a quiet hissing. Still, he was okay... after death, so that's... relieving? This was just getting confusing, so Yugure simply nodded, stood to the side, and welcomed him into the manor. There was clearly a massive amount of explaining he needed to do, and possibly even a whole mess of info to leak.

While simply happy to be with boyfriend again, guard was not let down. Neither was duty.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 06, 2015, 03:10:59 AM: With a nod he trudged into the house. The familiar halls sent an immediate rush of nostalgia through his mind. The second he entered the hall, Butler-san greeted him with a large smile and a cup of coffee.

Coffee.

It had been so long since he had a cup of coffee that it took no time at all for him to grab the cup and take one long sip. He breathed out a euphoric sigh of relief whilst turning back to Yukino with a smile.

"Shall we?" He gestured her over to the living room area, the time he had been here was the one time had his first close encounter with Yukino. That was definitely something to remember...

"So. Where to start..." Haruka carefully seated himself, somewhat squirming around in his seat. He was obviously still a bit nervous, but also just worried at any second he knows his heart could turn. The fear was nearly overwhelming.

"So uh, I died! Yeah... Yeah. Uhm." Haruka gulped, putting the coffee done and turning his attention to her.

"You never showed at the culture festival... I dressed as Yunos, it was really cool. Seifer was Mordred and we matched... And then everything went downhill. The next day, I was just really groggy and Sera had been chatting with me all day. Mostly talking my ear into a doze. I vaguely remember sitting down against a wall in the regional hall and then memory lapses. Everywhere. I would wake up in the park for no reason, and then go home... Then I would wake up again in the hospital, sitting in a chair talking to a man the size of a behemoth. And then... I was IN the hospital. In bed. I knew you and everyone were busy, I mean." He sipped his coffee, feeling bad. Guilty maybe.

"You seemed so busy, not responding before anyways, I thought honestly that you just were more concerned with the invasion. It wasn't until the severity of my condition escalated, er, my inner organs had partly dissipated and I was stuck internally bleeding out in bed." He stared at the floor, giving Yukino a moment or two to put her head around all of it.

"Then I woke up. Last night I just, well, woke up. I didn't know I was dead until Sera told me and explained everything. I thought I just fell asleep again until I heard you yelling at me to wake up. I thought I just overslept again until it came to my realization that Ahmes was attacking me. Weird, eh?"

Haruka bit his lower lip, finally raising his eyes to Yukino, looking at her expression, maybe an answer to this?
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 06, 2015, 03:34:56 AM: Yugure kept herself quiet, unable to really relax with Haruka given the situation. Still, she yearned to simply hear him talk, even if it was a much needed reveal. Giving a signal for Butler-san to go away, they entered the living room. Haruka sat down, she leaned against a chair with arms folded. Waiting for this tale to start... seeing him lost in nerves... the woman couldn't even begin to understand what he had been through. "So uh, I died!" was how the boy started, and the Blasters of Fate proceeded to bash their heads into walls. THAT'S how he starts this?! Bleh... Whatever, they listened to the rest of his story. Yugure had been absent for a time again, so he sounded lonely.

Hearing his down falling health, however, brought surprise and concern to her face. Was he really okay? ... Well, he already died and came back, so...

The Chosen Sword dropped her harsh demeanor. Of course he was lonely. While unable to speak for everyone else, she, as his girlfriend, was missing in action once again, and then forced too much on the war effort to give him the time he deserved.

"I'm sorry", were the first words that came out of her mouth. If it wasn't for Sera... he would've died without them seeing each other. Something to be grateful to the Seed for? ... No, this is probably his fault. Anything to make Sera look like the proper villain he is.

Honestly, the queen just wanted to hug him. But the soldier in her warned that Sera could intervene and stab her in the back. Even so, her hand came down on the chair's arm, motioning herself forward, but stopping. It's because of that warrior mentality she's still alive and kicking for a war she found near-hopeless. So it couldn't just be ignored...

What to do...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 06, 2015, 03:46:10 AM: "No need. You had a good reason, really." He saw her hesitate to walk over to him. No matter how much he rationalized the reason out and knew that it was totally about Sera, someone they were both aware of, he felt.

Alone.

He felt like he did the past week. In the hospital. Even during the Reverse Assault but still scared and alone and if Yukino wouldn't touch him then there probably wasn't much hope for him left. Maybe... No, nope. No easy way outs.

"You don't have to comfort me... I'm aware too that he's still there. He's been quiet since I left the beach and came over here. He hasn't even tried to stop me coming here. It was just, weird I guess." His hands shook again, forcing him to grab the cup of coffee and finish it off. Placing it down he just stared at his feet, tapping his feet.

"It's hard to desire a monster, you know?" Haruka sort of just said what was on his mind. He was feeling alone. He wasn't, not really anyways. He had Yukino and he had Hana and he had Seifer and Tsubasa and Darren and Rose and he had friends and people who wanted him alive but no matter how much he rationalized it, he just sat there and felt like a half-breed disasterpiece and all he could do was feel alone.

"I'm sorry, dear."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 06, 2015, 04:02:11 AM: Sera didn't stop him? Hmph, a clever ruse. The invader could simply use this vessel, knowing she loved it to death, and lure the Chosen Sword in. Link Joker would absolutely love to have one of the driving forces for humanity to fall straight into a coffin. Then they'll pull her right out and infect. Yes, this is how a pissed off war general would and did think. At the same time, a girl who had worlds crumbling around, and then putting themselves together, knowing they would just fall apart again was willing to take a risk.

"Don't you dare apologize", Yugure hissed. The woman pushed out the scarred general persona, and approached Haruka. Sitting down next to him, an arm reached over the man's shoulder. "You're not a monster, he is. He is not you." These were her words of reassurance. Despite them being merged into one entity, they were still different people. Haruka was a kind, cute, fumbling treasure while Sera was a fiend. How utterly ironic for the alter ego's name.

The arm pulled a bit closer, just to emphasize that reassurance.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 06, 2015, 07:17:43 AM: Haruka just trembled for a bit, catching his own throat. Sera was indeed him. Before, even he would deny it. But after all that's happened, Sera and Haruka were simply inseparable. Monsters by design.

Despite her best efforts, the war general's embrace only scared the boy a bit more. Its not her fault really. He doesn't want to hurt her but he also just wants to be held and cared for. How contradictory given the circumstances. After a moment, he somewhat moved himself toward her, and allowed her to pull him in a little.

He yearned for a moment. This was a start...

Haruka laid his head in the crevice between her neck and shoulder lighty nuzzling against her, trying to get comfortable.

"Then let me thank you, for having me." He wanted to be nowhere else but within the boundary zones of her arms. He wanted to be nowhere else. Here was just fine with him.

He smiled, even curling his legs up into a ball against himself as he used Yukino as a pillow. He was smiling again. If only more nights were like this. If only they weren't really messed up people. This would be a lot easier, wouldn't it?
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cipher Izanagi on October 06, 2015, 05:22:49 PM: Completely unrelated to what's happening here, one of the decks that Yukino had picked up recently, Seifer's Kagero deck (which still has one of her copies of Blaster Blade Liberator in it), started to glow a soft pale red light. The light stayed for several minutes before fading away, and there were now four new cards. They were almost similar to the previous cards that were still revealing themselves. However, while this card had no text, skill wise or name wise, there was something interesting in the top left hand corner of the card. The number was higher than three. It showed up as a four.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 06, 2015, 05:42:49 PM: Yugure kindly wrapped the other arm around her beloved sweetheart. As he nuzzled against her neck, she gave a bit of a squeezing embrace, trying not to pain him. A simple gesture that said "Stay here, I love you". Gently cuddling up to him, her head lightly rested on his. Just this once in the middle of a relentless apocalypse, the war general was allowed joy as a lover. Putting on a strong front to ensure emotions didn't overly cloud her duty to see humanity's survival fulfilled... This moment made her forget that purpose. The thought of being humanity's sword was gone. Even though that mentality was wrong... Yugure didn't care to be right if it meant being without Haruka.

The queen's mind lost itself in their time, smiling with him. Unknowingly falling asleep after such long days and weakness from injuries overtaking her...

...

"My lady..." Butler-san whispered.

Yugure almost snapped, waking up from the first peaceful slumber she's had in years... but she didn't want to wake Haruka up. "What..." she quietly moaned. Two bits of information were given. A new text arrived on her cell phone, from the princess. Second, something happened to Seifer's Kagero deck. Dismissing himself, an arm kept itself around Haruka. Yugure's other free arm checked the deck, seeing a new card having made itself known, filling the empty four slots of the deck. Most shockingly, this card was... Grade Four. Ahmes noted that he knows what it is and knows what Seifer's dreams were, yet, he'll explain once they meet up with him. Furthermore, the text was signalling round two with the black winged angel. At the amusement park, no less. As much as the queen didn't want to leave Haruka, duty called.

Slowly and cautiously moving about, the soldier got up from her seat, gently laying Haruka down. A blanket was put over him, and one of the fluffiest pillows in the country were delivered for his sleepy head.

Yugure crouched down, planting a kiss on his cheek.

They'll both be back here before they know it.

Yugure put on the rest of her clothes, and grabbed one of the Reality Bangles on her workshop's desk. It turned into a mixture of paladin coloring, and equipped itself to her arm.

"It's a prototype, but it'll have to make due."

The queen departed with Seifer's deck cases hooked to her waist.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 06, 2015, 06:04:40 PM: He wasn't shaken particularly by the slight movements and in fact didn't even wake up when Yukino ended up leaving. Though he somewhat felt the kiss on his cheek and squirmed around a little bit with a tiny smile. He was comfortable and in a good place, he couldn't really figure out what was wrong with this picture-

Sleep well?

Haruka's eyes shot open, only to hear the front door close and the room become silent. He clenched his teeth shut, not wanting to alarm the other workers and staff that he was awake. He simply spoke through his teeth in ragged whispers, either furious or terrified, Haruka needed to know some things and this was the only way to figure it out.

"Sera, where have you been? Did you even try to stop me from-"

Shut up and listen for a second. Haruka. I understand fully well that this is not fair. My people aren't exactly fair in the first place. But I want to make it clear that you still deserve to do... as you please. To some degree. Staying the night with your beloved, wrapped in a comforting embrace. That is, within that boundary. The only thing I must prevent you from doing is harming your own body, as I need it as well to continue forward.

Haruka whimpered a little, feeling sort of bad for Sera. Well, he was a crazed mass murderer with the capability of killing thousands, but at least he tones it down for Haruka. How sweet.

"So why are you here now...?"

Because you got what you wanted. A night with Yugure-

"Yukino."

Yukino. You got a mostly stress-free night without my intervention. I am capable of being nice, no?

Haruka still felt sick to his stomach, but at least Sera provided him this much in the way of freedoms. No use debating it anymore. He simply turned on his side, and closed his eyes. He would patiently wait for Yukino to return... maybe have some coffee with Butler-san too.

If you insist. Sleep well then, I'll keep watch.

How he intended to do that, Haruka had no idea since they both fell asleep at the same time, as they were a merged conscience. What a weird thing to say Sera.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on October 07, 2015, 03:18:51 PM: The Princess sipped some tea and sat down in their living room. One of fifty.

Many things were on her mind of yesterday. Her other decks had returned, giving her welcoming embraces and welcoming words. Minette gathered up all her data, making a compilation of it along with hers. She promised him that the nature of the idea would be kept secret from everyone for his sake. Meer was lively as usual and Reit was doing fine, thankfully reflecting on Mi-hime's condition. Star Rain and Nociel began getting along as honorary "bffs" in the "best girl association."

All was well.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 07, 2015, 03:31:56 PM: Another night in the Espoir Mansion. According to Sera he saw nobody come in or out of the house, which Haruka knew was a lie because fresh coffee was on the table meaning that Sera also fell asleep, as to confirm Haruka's prior suspicions.

Baka.

Sitting up on the couch, he gave out an exaggerated yawn as he stretched and reached for his coffee. He had been waiting for Yukino to return from her trip to wherever it was, but she didn't return immediately. Maybe she was home and doing something else? She could also just as easily be still out doing something. Haruka confirmed if they ever did get married, he would be the stay-at-home type while she does the outside work. Seems more fitting that way, since she is more often than not out doing work.

Apparently Butler-san also left him a change of clothing on the satin armchair in the corner of the room, with a note.

-Sleep well sir? Splendid! I'm in the kitchen as always if you are need of my services, coffee or Cardfights, I am always prepared! Until then. -Shinji."

...

Butler-san's name was Shinji? H o l y-

Haruka took the clothing and dressed himself in the hall bathroom. Pretty casual stuff, a cotton, white, button-up short sleeve shirt, and dark brown slacks. Not particularly attractive colors, but they would work for the day. Nothing he was opposed to or anything.

Walking downstairs, he knocked on the hallway wall, as per usual. That was a superstition of his; it actually didn't mean anything really, but he felt very out of place if he didn't. A bit obsessive perhaps, but the habit has served him well enough these days. However on his trek back down to the kitchen he happened through one of the few hundred living rooms of the home and stumbled upon a not-so-reversed Hana. He stopped in the hallway just looking at her, then averted his gaze.

"Hey. How're you feeling?"

Nice opening words. Except you're supposed to be me right now.

Shut up.

Oh yeah, ever since they merged entities, they finally learned how to speak through the mind and without having the one controlling the host have to talk out loud. Nice! 10 Points to the crazy boy with two personalities.

Carry on.

"A lot has happened after all, I mean." He leaned against the door way, shifting his weight to one side. He brought an index finger to the side of his face awkwardly scratching the side of his head, for emphasis that everything sort of felt out of place.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on October 07, 2015, 03:49:46 PM: Upon ( Haruka-Sera's? ) question, Hana silently took out her Angel Feather deck box, removing Ramiel Reverse from the case and slamming it onto the living room table which was in from of her. She looked back at Haruka with a menacing glare, outstretching her right hand, twitching it constantly as reverse energy fluctuated from it. It twisted and turned at her will, slowly merging onto her back to form wings of darkness. Her dark angel-like features slowly returned.

"I'm feeling... better than ever!" She grinned, using her void-infected hand to grab the reverse unit from the table. "Are you... strong?" An emotionless voice asked.

Then she put the card back into the box and collected her remaining reverse energy back into the bracelet which she was wearing. That was a joke, a good joke. Hana never knew what too far was when it came to these anyways. Nociel and Star-Rain, the "bffs" gave the performance a thubs up while Meer said that it didn't quite go up to her idol standards. Hana must still be a little rusty then. She was able to detect void energy effortlessly now though, and control it a little, though not as strongly as before.

"So by the way this feels..." She tilted her head. The energy felt warmer. Haruka always was letting out heat, but the kind of void energy that was being released from Haruka at least to her was different. "So Haruka you er.... Yeah I'm sure you're Haruka. You were re-born?... Had a..." Nudge. Nudge. "Re-birth?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 07, 2015, 04:00:48 PM: Haruka simply stepped back, Sera laughed jovially and altogether the two made an awkward comic duo of hysteric laughing and nearly falling on his butt. These two need to coordinate their act better. He finally caught himself on the wall when she finally went back to normal.

Normal was the closest word Haruka could think of because Hana was not normal or anything close to normal and hanging out with her enough simply twisted his perception of the word normal, just as an FYI.

"Re-Birth. Ha. I get it."

Haruka proceeded to reveal the card from his own deck case, which still had a twisted void surrounding the piece of cardboard. Quite frankly, this piece of cardboard was capable of destroying cities by itself. Haruka felt really edgy holding the card, having died and all and actually being reborn.

"Yeah, you could say that. Sera isn't dead or anything though. He just started getting really quiet whenever I'm around others-

I'm not quiet I just don't have anything to say to people I'm no longer really affiliated with-

Okay shush-up-

Meh."

If it were anybody else people would assume he is talking to himself. That is EXACTLY what it looks like right now. Haruka looks really dumb right now. Take note. Really really dumb.

"Uh-eh. So, I see you're feeling. Uhm. Fine? That was just spooky though, try to not do that anymore. Makes me feel like I'm about to guillotine'd or something."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on October 07, 2015, 04:21:30 PM: The fiddled with her bracelet a little. It had a lot of reverse energy stored inside of it for research purposes. It even had a bit of the time-space jazz that she used during round one with Yukino. Can she nuke the manor with this? No! This was for... research. It didn't change the fact that she was playing with the void, it was actually pretty fun.

After almost getting lost in how fun and blobby the darkness was, she looked back over Haruka being awkward as ever. A lot of things were on her mind about him, and it didn't help that she thought of Sera as well. He was always confusing her and making her worry. What a strange guy, she was at a loss on how to act here. In the end she simply let her heart act on it's own as it was now free from the clutches of the void and free to do as it feels. All jokes aside.

She silently stood up and gave him a hug, pressing her body to his and holding very very tightly, "Well I'm glad you're back, Nii-chan." Hana closed her eyes and rested her head on his torso. "I feel relieved, really. Also I've taken a liking to Sera so tell him he can talk to me about his problems since I know he has a lot.... and we'll all get through this together." She paused and giggled, moving her head around a little around and about the comfort of his chest. "Haha, Nii-chan! Nii-chan!" It would be awkward if Haruka was sis-con too, but judging by the way everyone is nowadays, it didn't seem to far out to be true.

Meer supported this.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 07, 2015, 04:50:56 PM: This was just... This was beyond the realm of weird. Haruka had met this girl a year and some ago, and thought of her as the little sister of the one he hated. Then the little sister of the one he loved. Then the one he loved. And now the little sister of his own. This was just getting more and more out of control.

At first he nearly stumbled back but instead just stood there for a moment, and blinked. She was warm, which was saying a lot considering Haruka always exudes heat from nearly every pore of his body. He let out a small smile along with a similarly tiny sigh of relief. He craned his neck down, placing his forehead on the top of her head and petting her for just a few moments.

She was his imouto now, makes sense right? It was just weird seeing as how he shared a bed with this girl once before, and is now hugging her because familial relationships? Weird. Beyond weird.

Haruka was fine with embracing the warmth, but Sera wanted to quite literally squirm away and crawl into a dark corner. He never liked physical relationships of any sort, and when he was buried deep into a separate conscious, it was all well and good. See, when the emergent conscious came to be, Haruka and Sera came to share everything.

Everything.

GET HER OFF OF ME.

No I like this. Don't you like people? Warmth?

Who do you think I am?

Point taken.

"H-Hana, I'm glad you're okay then. Sera likes you too! Isn't that great?"

I never said that.

"He even told me himself."

I'll kill you.

Haruka smiled, still petting Hana. "Thanks again for sticking with me, er, us, through all of this. I appreciate it."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on October 07, 2015, 05:28:36 PM: "Yes, I am aware that it's weird given the circumstances." She laughed as she took her steps back, smiling. "Things happened and are going to keep on happening. I was a normal girl once, but that all kind of upped and vanished."

Strange and awkward. Hana was only this with Haruka for some reason. It was weird for an idol to not be well-spoken and overall very social with those whom she meets, but for Haruka it's just strange... awkward. She remembers the time spent with him doing not-so family-like things and keeps in the darkest corners of her mind which ever reverse fears ever reaching.

Hana does like to think of the things with Miyuki on the other hand though. In lots of detail. Sweet and delicious. She just doesn't talk about it as much, but she can rival Yukino when it comes to it, maybe even more so!

Er.

Maybe she and her sister are more alike than she initially thought. Yukino was more of animal when it came to than anything an Hana was more of a... hm *ahem* Those things aside.

"Well tomorrow y'know, I might have to kill you."

Hana you piece of $$%$#
Narrator san be quiet.

"Sera is still the enemy, there's no two ways to go about it huh. I just hope that when this is all over, we can all be happy, together. Even Sera if I manage to not kill him."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 07, 2015, 05:47:34 PM: The atmosphere went from lovely, to a bit awkward, and then grim. Haruka felt his body tighten at the words kill.

Not again.

Haruka didn't particularly fear death, considering he had been there once and it didn't feel any different than simply falling asleep. Its just dreamless is all, but it passes by in a second...

Oh wait. Normally when you die, you sort of just stay dead. As in forever dead. Deadever. Haruka would be deadever should he cross the line. Or rather should Sera cross the line, meaning this would all become hell in a bottle for him if Sera went too far. Well he already sort of went too far at the shopping district, but that was partly due to Hana as well so he didn't bother with anything like that.

"You, well.. Uh. You aren't wrong I suppose. It's scary to think I died, came back, and might be gone again all in the same week. Try telling that story to your kids, hah."

You'd be dead.

Oh right.

"I hope you'll at least be quick about it. If my head is coming off, don't let me feel it coming, okay?" Haruka joked about it, but just the morbid nature of it actually made him feel sort of sick. Just thinking that him and Sera's life might actually come to an end again sends dread chills down his spine altogether.

"Yeah... I wanna be happy with everyone as well. Maybe it'll just end that way if we're lucky."

No luck about it. We ride together, we die together. Hear me?

Unfortunately. Loud and clear.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 07, 2015, 05:52:16 PM: Yugure leaned against the wall of her workshop, giving off labored, ragged breaths. Father Espoir simply looked down upon his daughter. They were supposed to discuss countermeasures and how the Reality Bangle was working, but the latter was answered very clearly. The queen exerted large amounts of power, the Reality Bangle asked for even more, and over the course of this war she's barely sat down to relax or recharge. Sweating, unable to really speak, Yugure looked up with eyes asking for help.

"See why everyone's bothering you to take care of yourself?"

Father Espoir's words were harsh but true. The soldier simply didn't care about her own health, and it resulted in... this. It'll be far worse too. She best be glad Haruka and Hana can't see her like this - especially Sera.

"J-Ju... Just... Give me... a minute..." Yugure was forming coherent words after awhile.

"The prototype was a success, so we can make modifications before handing them out to everyone. We also need to get Hana's bracelet for the Reverse research. Not only that, but I'm going to need you to-"

"Yes, Father, I get the point! You need me to take a break!" The woman screamed at her parent, and regretted doing so given her current state. The lion man wasn't annoyed with his daughter's irritation, he was simply looking out for her, and drilling it into her head.

"I know you hate Link Joker."

"Then you know why me sitting still is a waste of time!"

"If you keep fighting with disregards for your own well being, you'll be sitting still in a coffin."

"... I don't care..."

The two were silent for a few moments. Then, Father Espoir sat down next to his daughter, leaning against the wall.

"Fine, but try to enjoy life with your sister and boyfriend at some point at least."

Yugure couldn't just "enjoy life", did he forget who he was dealing with? Several servants were called in by the parent's phone with medicines for her. It'd take a bit for them to kick in, but she should be able to move about normally after borderline overdosing.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on October 07, 2015, 06:29:15 PM: "The King wishes to speak with you later." Star-Rain reported.
"Well of course."

She ordered a butler to bring in some tea for her. Green tea was usually her choice for relaxation. It was just right, and nothing helped her calmed down more than a burnt tounge really. She sat back down on the living room couch, relaxing herself while she still had the chance. Behind her angel feather deck were the envelopes of cards that Mom-san gave to her as a present to use during the New York Stage. Mi-hime had cards in hers as well, though she never got to open it too. Hana bad completely forgotten that she tucked the envelope in the Angel Feather deck box so long ago.

"So Haruka-niichan, what's your plan from here on?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 07, 2015, 06:42:40 PM: Still leaning on the doorway, Haruka looks at the ceiling in thought for a moment. Plan? Well, he would want to stay here until things pass over but that obviously isn't an option. If what Sera explains is true, this body can still force-lock one more body of his will, and if Sera is in the house of possibly the two strongest fighters in the area, wouldn't in make sense to Reverse one? Hana has retained Reverse energy but is willingly controlling it. Of course Yukino would become the prime target...

Haruka could absolutely not allow that. Heart Locking her was just not something he wanted to happen. Even if Haruka was half of the body's power source, he was the weaker half as of his rebirth. Sera still had more motor-function control than Haruka by a longshot. He didn't want to leave any of the Espoir family in potential danger.

"My plan? Erm... Probably after today, I think I'm gonna get as far away from here as possible. Not that I don't like you guys. In fact I probably like being here more than anything but Sera is... Unpredictable. I don't want anyone else I care about to get hurt."

Fair enough.

"But I think I can afford one more day, considering the circumstances. Sera has been somewhat weaker as of recently."

You really have to tell them everything?

Haruka was on the money. Sera's energy levels had depleted to a sufficient amount that Haruka wasn't afraid of reverse energy taking over or anything within the day or two. However no use taking chances, so he was leaving in exactly twenty-four hours from the moment he made that decision. Starting now.

"Speaking of... Where is Yukinoms? She disappeared yesterday after I fell asleep on your guys' couch. One of them anyways."

Yukinoms, by the way, came from her predatory instinct to bite. Er, she didn't always bite. But biting was a thing that happened once. Probably because wound li-

Isweartogodifyoudon'tshutupabouthatIwillkillyoumyselfrighthererightnow.

.... Hehe.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on October 07, 2015, 06:48:55 PM: "She should be working on thos bracelet thingies that I saw around the tables. They look weird, but then again I'm wearing a bracelet full of reverse energy." Hana laughed. "I'm kind of jealous of her so I'm going to go work on a school uniform infused with void energy or something now. Seeee ya!"

Hana stood up and gave an energetic wave, skipping up the stairs and back into her room. She had it set, a school uniform that could help her distinguish void energy. It had to be a school uniform.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 07, 2015, 07:27:24 PM: "Ahh, alright. Later then!" Haruka watched as Hana raced off to go make a reverse... school girl outfit.

He didn't even bother delving farther into that topic as it is. Instead he reached into his slack pocket for a cell phone. To be frank, Haruka had no idea how to get Yukino's work area thingamajig, and he'd much rather just message her. Sera had qualms about it, but spending time with her was a nice thing, right? They had a night together earlier which was cool for sure. Also Hana even got to talk to the real Haruka and they chatted about a few things.

Once Haruka had served his last couple days with the Espoir family, a close equivalent to something he'd call his own family, he would prepare to leave. Or at least, that was the idea. If Sera would be nice and just not be a total party pooper all the time, maybe even call off the invasion...

Wow you're dense.

Maaaaan.

Haruka intended to stay with his loved ones for as long as he could, before everything turned to crap again. With a quick message.

"I heard you're hanging around the mansion. Wanna come find me? -haruuuuuu~"

You're tagline is more flamboyant.

What if it is?

Heh...

You're SO edgy.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 07, 2015, 08:11:39 PM: Yugure took a drink of water to wash down a handful of pills. The woman was still sitting next to her dad, and they weren't saying much of anything. Just enjoying the company of one another. They had been work buddies through this war, so a moment of peace was nice. No paperwork, no planning, just...

Oh, her phone went off. Father Espoir fetched it for her. Probably boys at the lab wanting info. Groaning, the girl scrolled through menus to reach a text. It was Haruka. Ugh... Letting him in the workshop would be letting Sera into the workshop. That damned Seraphim could just destroy all her work, so she can't let them come to her. Which is a nuisance because she still can't really stand up to go to them.

"In a little bit."

Yugure leaned on her father for support, getting control of her breathing.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 07, 2015, 08:28:32 PM: In a little bit? Well, that means time to do something productive. To the kitchen!!

Haruka made his mad dash to the checkered-themed kitchen where Butler-san, er, Shinji was. God that was going to be really tough to remember. Haruka walked in with a wave, actually commanded by both entities. They both really liked coffee so that was a thing to be happy about. With a grin, a cup was already placed in front him.

Like a kid in a candy shop, Haruka took a gracious sip and nodded to him.

"Shinjiii, it's great! Thanks again." It was always great. There was never a time in history Haruka forgot to thank this man for the wonderful creation of coffee he made every day. He would have to award this man a medal one day when he got the chance, for sure.

"Thanks again... Hmm."

"ill be in the kitchen when you get around to it. i can come find you if you want actually? -haruuuuu~"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 07, 2015, 09:06:15 PM: "No, no, I'll come to you."

The girl used her father and a nearby table to get on feet again. It was a sort of wobbly way up and staying up. Yugure was a bit dizzy, and gripped the desks as she walked to not fall over. Dad Espoir sighed, knowing she wasn't going to listen to him. Even now, instead of relaxing, war plots were likely being formulated in mind, along with getting the Reality Bangles replicated for the resistance. Honestly, he was starting to see why they were alike. In his younger days, he always took part in the dumbest, most reckless sorts of activities that Mom Espoir always advised against.

Christ, they're just hardheaded.

Now the walls were support, allowing Yugure to stagger her way toward the kitchen. Best to not let Sera see any weakness, and even better to not make Haruka worry. Getting close, she got off of the wall, and stood up straight. Entering, she noticed her boyfriend with his favorite butler-san again.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 07, 2015, 09:14:43 PM: "Are you sure that's how that works?"

"Most certainly sir! Also, did you know she also really likes stuffed animals?"

"Really now? What about jewelry?"

"She loves the charms you got her. Wears them as earrings now!"

"Oooooh."

Shinji, aka Butler-san shared gossip with Haruka over coffee as the semi-straight up Yukino entered the area. He looked at her with a smile, partly from what Butler-san was talking about, but mostly from seeing Yukino. He ended up hopping out of his seat and over to her with a huge hug, nearly tackling the girl to the ground. He's always wanted to do that, and since she's a tough soldier gal now, she can handle that, right? She'd love wrestling with him. Maybe even break out the animal instincts. Hopefully Shinji would be kind enough to not watch though...

"Yuuukiiiinoooo!" The bubbly-boy was excited indeed. Sera was totally off the wheel on this one. Not even caring anymore, no sirree. As long as she didn't bite so hard that there was any external damage to the body. He was cool with it.

So you ARE a freak!

Ohmygod.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Spectre Diamond on October 07, 2015, 09:33:47 PM: "Hope..we need to talk. Come find me at the central square of Gotem city. I'll tell you everything once your there." - Hikaru
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on October 07, 2015, 09:50:19 PM: Hana finished weaving the reverse energy past a few more threads of the uniform. It was getting a sort of silver color from its original white sheen, the trims were starting glow red. In Hana's opinion, it looked like a really fashionable outfit. Void coated school uniform!

Her phone vibrated and she checked the message. Austrailia-kun? Last she checked, he was a Link Joker general. Ha he gotten the reverse lifted? Either way, it looks as if he wanted to meet up and it's not everyday that Underground King and invader general texts for a meet up.

She changed into the finished school shirt and wore a leather coat above it, giving a nice overall light and dark contrast between her hair and torso. The red glow was a nice touch. She headed out to Gotem City.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 07, 2015, 09:54:26 PM: Yugure was very much nearly knocked down by the bouncing Haruka borderline tackling her. Thankfully, as sturdy as knight training made her, she managed to stay up, and hug her beloved back. Had she not felt sick, she could've answered with more resilience. He was really excited, enough to make someone forget a war was going on. Cheery outlooks like that were... quite something awe-inspiring.

"H-Heeeey!"

The soldier couldn't respond with as much enthusiasm, but tried. Alfred and Ezel offered her gold stars, and she told them to shove them up their-

"Good to see you lookin' happy."

Yugure put her attention back on Haruka, giving him a quick peck.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 07, 2015, 10:13:24 PM: He gave a sheepish grin after the kiss, happy to see her. There wasn't much time left before he would probably have to off and disappear again, unless Sera would give him the opportunity. Not much time left after all, sadly. Even Haruka knew that the good life was coming to an end soon... It was a depressing thought to realize that all the times he shared with Yukino and Hana and everyone will just as quickly come to an end as they had come to him after death. It's like some sick twisted joke to give him back everything in reach, then take it away again.

That made his stomach nearly lurch forward. He tried to keep a cool and composed posture for her though, just to keep her spirits up as well. He brought her in extra close, pressing his forehead to hers. He blinked for a moment, adjusting his vision to get a good look at her from this close.

"Hey, I need to tell you something..."

He took a slightly deep breath, before moving back an inch or so, being able to see her eyes clearly. Making the message clear was better than just up and disappearing on the girl. There was no way he could forgive himself for that.

"Sera... Will be strong enough to get at his work again tomorrow. I wouldn't be surprised if he gets near full control by then. So I probably won't be here tomorrow... or the next day. Chances are we might not meet again for a bit. And the chances of us meeting again, as in Haruka and Yukino, are low... Severely." He pressed his lips to her forehead for a moment, with a slight hum to them. Releasing his small kiss, and looked back at her again.

"I'm sorry Yukino, that I put you through so much stress after all this time, only to up and vanish from your life. At least I can confirm for you today isn't a dream. And, thank you, for existing in my life. It's been a hell of a ride, darling." Haruka brushed part of Yukino's hair behind her ear, trying to maintain a smiling face. That face was slowly deteriorating, despite the enthusiasm and joviality he had sprung forth with only a moment ago.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 07, 2015, 10:41:43 PM: As expected, happy days were not meant to last. To be honest, Yugure was prepared for this as a natural pessimist, always trying to tiptoe around Sera, and knowing full well that cancerous angel wouldn't give in and at least let the boy stay. It was easy to tell Haruka was despairing over this. That's why, when he separated their foreheads, she almost said "please don't go". Not just for a rigid soldier who can't live in peace, but for a boy who deserved his right to live. Tomorrow, the Seed will take his place back in the war as the invader overlord. It would be a long time before the couple got to be together again.

But the chances of meeting as Haruka and Yukino were low?

Ridiculous.

Hearing his apology - his goodbye only made it more outrageous. Yugure proceeded to headbutt him.

"Don't you talk to me like that", the queen demanded. "Not only am I going to bring you back, I'm going to bring you back as who you are right now. Thank me then, apologize to me then, do none of it now!"

The thing about being a pessimist is that it didn't really register when it came to loved ones. Blind optimism? Probably. A general had to be able to raise morale for themselves and others. Yet, this wasn't a clouded bet. No, she was positive they'd be holding hands like always at the end of this.

"I kept on this 'ride' because I love you, and I'm keeping on it because I love you."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 07, 2015, 11:01:23 PM: "O-Oww!" Haruka rubbed his forehead slightly, keeping his other arm wrapped around Yukino's waist. She was upset with that little bit of information apparently. He didn't process what she said at first, but when he finally did... Wow she was actually much angrier than he assumed she would. For some reason he believed she would be a bit more upset or wanting to spend the day happily.

She was angry at him. But a loving anger. Tough love? No, different than that. She really wanted to believe he was going to come back, as Haruka Nakahara. He sighed with a slight smile, letting a painful wince out still from the headbutt.

"O-Okay... I'll come back to you then. I expect you to make sure it happens though. Not like I can control it really... Can I ask you to do me a favor though?" Haruka awkwardly looked away, still holding on to her waist. He sort of fumbled around in the annals of his thoughts til they got hazy. His request was really simple but he needed her permission. In fact they did this on a regular basis.

But this was different for him. For a lot of reasons. But he needed this.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 07, 2015, 11:28:12 PM: Despite their relationship, Yugure wasn't really a textbook example of a romanticist. She wasn't into sappy goodbyes, nor into hoping for a happy ending. The woman was going to make the happy ending happen, and still hold her hatred and rage. Even if some of that wrath pours out in a promise to retrieve her lover, it was simply her brand of violent affection. Of course she'll make it happen, she wouldn't be here if she gave up. Haruka spoke of a request, which naturally, the girl would dutifully hear out and perform.

"What is it?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 07, 2015, 11:33:42 PM: Haruka was actually a little bit of a dork sometimes and didn't know when he was allowed to be spoiled or when it was the wrong time. Right now he really wanted to be spoiled but didn't know if it was the right time.

He fidgeted for a moment encased in a furious blush, unable to maintain eye contact for longer than a solid two seconds. Finally after enough beating around the bush, he looked at her with a little pout.

He was really quiet.

Somewhere in-between a mutter and a whisper.

"K-k-kiss me..."

That was the best he could muster at the time. Embarrassment was really getting to him right about now. If only he was super courageous and brash all the time.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 08, 2015, 12:09:32 AM: Yugure missed Haruka being a little fumbling dork. This act of nerves and fidgeting was part of why she loved him - he's adorable. All he wanted was a kiss, too. Giving a little giggle at his quiet stuttering, her arms draped around his shoulders, tugging him closer to deliver his gift: her soft lips to his. It was one of the rare times she was gentle, not exactly forcing him toward her, but just carefully pulling. During the longing embrace, the queen's hands slowly traveled backward to Haruka's cheeks, caressing them with thumbs.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 08, 2015, 12:16:44 AM: Before he could change his mind on the request, as if he wanted to anyways, a soft pair of lips closed over this own. He let out a soft moan in response. Haruka was actually caught off guard, despite him being the one who requested the kiss.

He felt all the motions and tactile touches from Yukino. He got chills from feeling her hands on his face. They were cool to the touch, yet warning like an embrace all the same. Haruka felt lost in a space-time vaccuum. He's had these moments plenty of times in his life, but he still wishes he could stop time and stay that way.

Pulling away only slightly, he looks at her.

His eyes only slightly glazing over.

"One more..." He proceeds to kiss her himself this time. And again. And again. It took no time at all to turn that one request into a series of kisses. Spoiled boy.

Haruka was happy this way. If this was all he got before everything ended... Then so be it. He was happy with his gauntlet of slightly more forceful kisses than the last, as long as he had what he wanted for so long. A lover who would reciprocate the same for him. It set off a tingly feeling in his chest, rising to his throat.

This was all he needed for the night.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 08, 2015, 01:02:49 AM: Hearing Haruka moan might have set her off more than it should have. She refrained from letting out a little bratty whine over him pulling back. He was the one who asked for the kiss, but that didn't mean she wasn't going to complain when it was over. "One more", he said. Then it turned into another, an extra, one last, more, just an barrage of lip-locking. The woman was getting what she'd have griped out, clearly signaled by her moaning and happy giggling. A new kind of high was starting to be reached with the assortment of pills from earlier kicking in. Yugure was starting to feel light-headed, and that made melting into this loving embrace all the easier and all the better.

"Haaa... ruuuu... kaaaaa..."

The dizzy queen was lost in the growing euphoria, crying her beloved's name as she leaned forward, keeping up with his growing kiss-aggro, and giving herself to him.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 08, 2015, 07:10:07 PM: Yugure's eyes slowly opened, quickly blinking in order to get adjusted to the light out of the window. At some point in the night, the couple wound up in her bedroom. Haruka was still asleep next to her, and it would be the last time she sees him like that for awhile. Fighting against the gravity of medicated drowsiness, the soldier got up. "I'll see you soon" was a little note posted on the back of her door. About to depart from her room, she noted a text from Satoshi on her phone. Scrolling to open it, the message almost instantly set off her fury. Slamming a fist into the wall - Nebula Lord was gathering for a challenge to her. If he were to win, his harvest of everyone else would proceed without her interference.

"Neeeeebulaaaaaa Loooooooooord...!"

The woman growled with a deep, ferocious tone filled with anger. "Chance to turn the tide of war" translated to: "Chance to murder a commander and get your friend back".

Her door slammed shut as she left to prepare.

A message was sent to the members of the Cardfight Club.

"We're going to Hawaii."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on October 08, 2015, 07:42:39 PM: Hana sent a reply:
"I just managed to defeat Freeze Ray Dragon and Dark Band. Now suddenly Hawaii? Don't slack Nee-san pls, but sure I can use some R&R with an obligatory beach episode. I have stuff you can wear from photoshoots and stuff if you want, I think my clothes fit you now. Cash money lol. - Hana Isabella Espoir"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 08, 2015, 07:44:13 PM: "Good work. Now we're going to kill Nebula Lord."

Yugure didn't even respond to the beach part...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Golden Sage NovaRaizer on October 08, 2015, 08:14:51 PM: Darren replied to Yugure:

Hawaii sounds like a fun distraction, Yuki. I'm gonna be plus 2 though. I'm sure it'll be fine.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 08, 2015, 08:23:32 PM: Awakening at the slam of the door, Haruka quickly cuddled back into a sleeping position, reaching his arm over to tap Yukino. His stomach had knots and hurt like a quick jab to the gut on repeat.

Who was now obviously absent, causing Haruka to sit up. He rubbed eyes, realizing she was already gone. Nothing too out of the ordinary. She tended to do that often, either that or Haruka himself would be gone at all hours of the morning for school or something. Scratching his head, he checked a message he received from Yukino herself.

Hawaii.

Haruka was delighted, until he realized what that gut feeling was supposed to be. Sera's grip on Haruka was back. He had finally regained enough strength to take the host body over if he felt, and that made Haruka extremely anxious to be around his loved ones. He breathed in with a few thoughts on his mind. Should he go? What are the benefits are going besides an obligatory beach episode? Seeing Yukino in a bikini was obvious one but Haruka had seen something similar a few times anyways so it wasn't like he was missing out on anything ground breaking for him.

He ran his hands through his hair, feeling the heat in his temples and chest rising, signifying Sera's conscious emerging. He probably had words for Haruka right about now, since they were finally alone.

Why does she have to bite so hard?

I seriously thought you had something relevant to say for once and yet again you prove me wrong.

What? It's not like I'm taking over the world yet or anything. Besides, I'm inherently obtaining bits of your personality. Hence why recently I've been using more conjunctions and such.

You still sound like an alien to me.

Because I have your voice. But maybe a half-step lower.

Haruka shook his head. Sera was actually comic relief right now and didn't seem to have anything too malicious on the mind.

But yeah, If I were you and I had me inside of me, I probably wouldn't go anywhere near them. Just because I'm like, and technically am you, doesn't mean that I no longer want to finish what I started. Plenty of those people are targets... Primarily that lovely girl you spend nights in bed with.

Which one?

Th-The one you were with last night....

Ah... Right. Yukino.

There's another?

Remember Hana-

Speak no more. It is clear to me again. Those are some very vivid images you have kept stored up in there-

Pleasestoplookingthroughmymemory!!!

Haruka sighed, flopping down on the bed, gripping lightly at the sheets. He was already missing Yukino's warmth. More so, he missed all of his friends and the relationships he had finally established after so much time. Because of some stupid Seed planted in him, he was suddenly the villain and was susceptible to being completely eradicated by those he loved, only because of this stupid other half. He was gritting his teeth at this point.

I'm sorry.

You're... Wait. What?

You heard me.

Right. They can hear each other's thoughts, so Sera must know exactly how Haruka feels about everything. And considering Sera is more and more human by the moment, he must be feeling really hated, dejected, and lonely as of recently...

Guess they were more alike than they thought.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cipher Izanagi on October 08, 2015, 08:27:30 PM: 'So you got the text as well then? I suggest in case something happens we go as a group and stick together. Just got Noel back, if Ahmes or Salome haven't told you yet. ...Thank you by the way.'
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 08, 2015, 08:50:09 PM: Ahmes? Salome? What did they do?

"Bring whoever you want and meet me in front of the Espoir Manor. Satoshi sent a jet for us, and we'll all go together."

Yugure put on her charm earring, and equipped herself in personal standard soldier attire. This was no beach episode for her, this was premeditating. Alfred, Ahmes, and Ezel went over possible strategies with the paladins of the Sanctuary. The last two times they fought against Link Joker directly, they were unable to attain their full might due to Lock. The Salvation Lion's Unlock would prove key in winning today's war. That, and following the lead of a furious queen instead of hindering her would also be key. Deciding this bloodthirsty hatred was not possible to quell, they thought it easier to simply work with it. Following behind the lead of ideologies and emotions hasn't put them in awful spots before, honestly. It is the emotions Alfred holds in his heart that makes people want to follow him.

The queen expressed her thanks to everyone, for allowing her to be mad. Attaching the trio of deck cases to her belt, she left the interior of the mansion.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Golden Sage NovaRaizer on October 08, 2015, 08:56:22 PM: The Espoir... What? Where the heck is that? I think I need some directions.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Jello on October 08, 2015, 08:59:36 PM: Are you going to tell her goodbye?

I think that door closing was her leaving...

At least text her.

Why should I? Or rather why do you want me to-

Because no matter how much I want to destroy everything you still deserve to be happy despite it.

Haruka quite literally stopped in shock. He wanted to hit Sera. Therefore hitting himself. He was livid and depressed and confused all at once. What was he saying? Sera and him are joined together, it's not like it just works that way.

Haruka... I didn't choose to be with you. That was not my decision. It could have been anyone. You were simply a tool to my goal, no more or less... But after living inside of you, and now with you, I've realized what it means to be alone and angry and happy and sad. I like hanging out with you, er, being you? Whatever. It was a whole new experience. I don't know if I particularly like it. But I can sympathize with you now. And for that I am so... so sorry, that it has to be that way.

Haruka stopped breathing for a moment. He was quiet.

Text her. Even if you aren't going. Please text her.

He nodded, tears nearly welling up. He sent out one quick message to her, before exiting the mansion with a large amount of the belongings he had left here. His clothes, a couple of his CDs, his spare card binder and things like that. He didn't know if he'd ever return here as Haruka, or alive at all for that matter. Best to not leave any awful memories for her...

"thanks for the invite but i'll have to pass... im sure you can understand why. be safe dear! tell everyone i said aloha ^w^ -haruuuuu~

and sera."

Sera pleaded to add his name to the tagline. Haruka felt is was really inappropriate at first but after what they've talked about for a decent time tonight, it was only really fair he be included. It was his idea to make him text Yukino anyways.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on October 08, 2015, 09:07:31 PM: Hana texted back:
"I'm a magical girl. - Hana Isabella Espoir"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 08, 2015, 09:12:17 PM: "Here you go, Darren."

[Address to Espoir Manor sent]

Yugure nearly broke her phone seconds after getting a message from Haruka with Sera's signature.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: OverDrive on October 08, 2015, 09:18:22 PM: After the events at Gotem City-

"Could I trouble you with a favor Yukino? I'd like for my brother to get some fresh air, maybe have some fun, since you guys are going to Hawaii can he come along? I'll try to make it as well but it really depends I'm still trying to certify that there are no more reverse remnants left behind."

Tsubasa sent this text to Yukino, with the intention of having Haruto have some fun time while he dealt with the reverse.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Spectre Diamond on October 08, 2015, 09:35:44 PM: Getting the ok from the guard at the front gate. The large gates of the Espoirs opened and the two rides to the front of the mansion. After turning off the engine and setting the Oblivion down. He takes his helmet off and flips his head around to give his spiky hair more freedom. Maybe its time for a hair cut. He looks at the front of the mansion in awe.

"Whistle* This is a pretty nice place."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on October 08, 2015, 10:23:06 PM: After the long doki doki ride of death, Hana hopped off the thump thump motorcycle with the vroom vroom engine and made her way into the swaggy swag estate where she was able to remove her jacket and give it to the kawaii desu meido. She led her guest to the nom nom dining hall and invited him to "make himself at home." She ordered a large quantity of eggs to be cooked for her dinner as she was hungry and had a guest who was probably hungry. With the trip to Hawaii in mind, she texted Manager-san to see if he wanted some souvenirs or maybe to even come along because he never seems to have any fun.

He replied:
"Isabella, get a job."

Hana replied:
"But. Egg music . video. - Hana Isabella Espoir"

He replied:
"No."

He is so kind.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: RosaliaIzanami on October 08, 2015, 10:24:05 PM: Rosalia paused at the front gates, staring up at the mansion. This was only the second time she was here... and she couldn't get over at how huge the place was. Makes me kinda jealous... but still... She wondered about her thoughts earlier, regarding any musicians that may have been hired at the mansion. More so, the redhead just wanted to know one day how she compared as a violinist to a professional. Shrugging that thought aside, she looked to her companion. She and Seifer had just come from their house, Seifer having to carry an unconscious but thankfully Un-Reversed Noel the entire way. "She's still out cold?..."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cipher Izanagi on October 08, 2015, 10:31:15 PM: "Yeah she's still asleep. She might be out for a while considering... anyway, sorry for making you carry all of that yourself. Just..." he shifted the female in his arms once as a gesture before ringing the gate bell with his backside. Not even remotely professional, but whatever. He had to let them know they were there now. It'd also probably look kind of awkward that he was carrying a sleeping sister in his arms but whatever. It's his sister.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Golden Sage NovaRaizer on October 08, 2015, 10:33:30 PM: Darren arrived at the front gate. It took a little time and waking around but when he was close, it was hard to miss the large privatized area. Even though he was invited to this place, it was a little intimidating. He had brought Xat and her young friend as well since Yugure said it would be fine. Maybe there wouldn't be danger if she was willing to let them come along. Even if there was, he was sure he could handle it.

Rosalia was the first one he saw there, waving to her as he walked up to her, not too fast so that Xat and her friend didn't fall behind. "Hey Rose, long time no see, he said to her as he was happy she was okay and not Reversed again. "I'm surprised Seifer is with you... He thought about what he said a moment, remembering that Seifer wanted to isolate himself. Maybe that was a bad thing to talk about. He was suddenly in a hurry for a new topic. "Oh, this is my friend Xat. I think you saw her in the Training Area a while back. After what happened, I wanted to make sure she was safe. It was kinda my fault for bringing her there, after all."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 08, 2015, 10:40:05 PM: "As I stated before, Tsubasa, bring who you want."

A large limousine pulled up, ready to take in most of those coming with them on this trip. Yugure leaned against a wall by their open gate, taking note of everyone slowly arriving. The Chosen Sword noticed her Unreversed Umano commander and the unconscious Noel. Along with Hana returning and going inside of the manor.

Folding her arms, she was beginning to take a mental role call.

"Tsubasa and Haruto should be left..."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: xateramusa on October 08, 2015, 10:47:53 PM: Xat walked yp to rose with Mikalea not to far behind. Though xat had her emotions masked again. "Hello." was all she said
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: OverDrive on October 08, 2015, 10:50:34 PM: After stopping by Fei's home to get some stuff, Tsubasa and Haruto arrived at the Espoir Mansion, hopefully not too late for the trip. As the two walked towards the group they could see some familiar faces, those including Darren, Hikaru, Seifer, Rosalia, and Yukino.

"Sorry if we're late." he said, as walked up to Yukino.

"I'll be leaving Haruto to you for this trip, i'll catch up to you if I can but I don't know if I will be able to.....unfortunately I have a little situation to attend to..." he said, as he remembered the horror this mystery man was putting him through.
"..It's ok Aniki, I'll be fine."

He kneeled down to his brother's side and whispered to his ear, "Try not to mention what we went through in Gotem City, until I figure things I don't want too many people to get involved." he then gave his brother a hug, and began walking away, waving to his friends as he left.

"..Uh...Thank you for having me, Haruto Hayato is the name." he said, feeling kinda embarrassed, and placing his hand behind his head.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: RosaliaIzanami on October 08, 2015, 10:56:26 PM: Rosalia jumped when she first heard her name, but relaxed a moment later when she noticed it was just Darren. "O-oh, hey Darren... and why wouldn't Seifer be with me?" she asked, but didn't exactly expect an answer. Instead, she waved to the female by Darren's side, as the first time they were "introduced" was when Xat was Reversed. "Hello, Xat~ I'm Rosalia, this is my boyfriend Seifer, and his sister Noel. Noel is uh... kinda tired. So don't mind her..." After their short introductions, the redhead noticed the limo pulling up at the front of the mansion with them. From the looks of it... maybe it would be for them? Part of her hoped so, having never been in one before, though if the world wasn't preoccupied with the invasion, she probably would enjoy the experience more.

For now, she looked to see others arriving; Tsubasa and Haruto, who were approaching Yugure. Rosalia glanced at Seifer before following in suit, and walking over to Yugure's side. "Onee-chan~ Um... We kinda have a sleeper..." she pointed out, glancing at Noel again. "B-but um.. why are we going to Hawaii?... I-if it's to fight..." Her gaze lowered as her voice trailed off at the end. She didn't want to explain how she no longer had Venus... Her hands went into her pockets, where the scraps remained from when Reversed Noel tore it to shreds...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Golden Sage NovaRaizer on October 08, 2015, 11:00:40 PM: Darren didn't want to answer Rosalia's question, nor did he want to mention how... shy? Xat was being towards the others. It was probably best not to talk about what he and Seifer spoke about privately. He did see Tsubasa appears, as well as... a kid? Well at least he and Xat weren't the only ones bringing someone young. After all, Mikaela was only 12. They could probably play together and stay out of trouble. At least he hoped it would work that way.

He waved to Yugure as he saw her. "Oh, hey Yuki!" One would think he would be concerned for Noel, and its not that he wasn't. He had heard before that she had been Reversed and figured she might be unconscious as a part of that. Its something he didn't want to bring up if they were going on a relaxing Hawaiian vacation.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 08, 2015, 11:04:03 PM: "That should be everyone then. We'll take care of Haruto for you", Yugure confirmed and vowed to Tsubasa. There was a matter Gold Paladin's vanguard had wanted to discuss with her some days ago, and wondered what he had in mind. He already left, and Ezel had a good mountain of things to say to him. Mostly catching up, mostly stupid jokes to put a smile on his face. Also a thank you for letting him spend time with the Messiah. Everyone told the lion to just write him a letter.

"We're leaving in thirty minutes using that limousine. Hikaru, sir, you can leave your bike here or drive it with us. And hello Darren."

The Chosen Sword announced this to everyone around, and texted the 30-Minute warning to Hana. Hikaru the whole message if he went inside. Then, Rosalia approached. They can simply carry Noel on for the ride, but this girl herself seemed... not all too happy about the arrangements for one reason or another. The stuttering and lowering volume of voice gave it away.

"... It's to fight", Yugure decided to be honest with her.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cipher Izanagi on October 08, 2015, 11:10:13 PM: Seifer watched everyone as they showed up, making sure not to drop Noel. He recognized everyone but the kid that Darren and Xat brought along. This is a lot more people than he thought there'd be but that's fine. In any case the male turned his head in the direction of Yukino, tilting his head to the side a bit. "I know we're going to fight, but depending on how long we're there, we might as well take some time to relax and enjoy ourselves. I know what we're supposed to do, and uh... thanks for before, but we can't always keep pushing ourselves over our limits." he had debated if he even should of said that but... "That being said, the priority is the fight. Relaxation after we liberate whatever it is we're supposed to in Hawaii.. ...I'm going to assume it's Satoshi."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: RosaliaIzanami on October 08, 2015, 11:17:26 PM: Rosalia frowned at the thought of fighting again... But now probably wasn't a good time to bring it up. She only nodded and, out of the blue, gave Yugure a quick hug. She wasn't sure how the older female would take it, but that's why she made it quick. "I-i'll... do what I can... I promise..." she said softly, meaning every word despite her situation. She then released Yugure from the hug, moving back to Seifer's side and putting one hand in her pocket again. Just from the way she acted, she was depressed again, like how she was before she discovered Venus, so was it fighting in general that bothered her? She played with the scraps again in her pocket, eyes half shut as she looked at the ground. Venus... What do I have to do to get you back...
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Golden Sage NovaRaizer on October 08, 2015, 11:21:56 PM: Darren looked at Rose with a small frown, seeing she didn't seem to want to fight much. He sighed lightly and said, "Fighting or not, it a good excuse to get in some vacation time. Let's have at least some fun with it." He was able to speak this way as he felt his deck was able to handle anything thrown at it. If Rose hesitated, he would make sure he could fight twice as hard to make up for it, that way she wouldn't be pressured. Even though Xat was with them as well, he was sure she could handle herself after knowing what the Reverse was like first hand.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 08, 2015, 11:28:37 PM: "The main objective is freeing Satoshi and killing Nebula Lord. Everyone can do what they want otherwise."

Ezel and a whole lot of other paladins would love if the queen herself could actually relax. It was Hawaii! The knights didn't even know what that was, but it sounds fancy and soothing to the soul. When Rosalia hugged her and spoke a promise to fight, the soldier patted the girl's head. "Do what you can and don't worry", was the advice given. Or perhaps order? She couldn't guess at what was bothering the redhead, but figured performing tasks within power would suffice if something was wrong.

"You're getting used to be a big sister again, I see", Ahmes teased. "First carrying the princess from a classic knight tale setting in your arms, and now petting another in a reassuring fashion?"

"Maybe she just likes little sisters. Sucks to be that Seifer guy, probably", Ezel added.

Yugure completely ignored the both of them. Alfred chuckled.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: xateramusa on October 08, 2015, 11:38:06 PM: Xat nodded and looked at the other people and was glad to see there was a kid that Mikaela to play with. She then looked at the limo as she payed attention to the speech before she walked up to Yugure. "If you want when we arrive I can gather inteal on the reverse fighters and the lay out of there base. Its somethi g I have exsperance with." she said
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Spectre Diamond on October 08, 2015, 11:38:46 PM: He wasn't surprised from the chosen swords statement. Having received the message to join in the harvest minutes before his unreverse and freedom. He wouldn't mind fighting alongside his new allies. However he has no deck at the moment so that would be trouble some. Might as well come clean on what the 'vacation' is for.

"Kurosaki, probably already knows that I've defected to your side so I doubt theirs going to be any pleasantry between us." He then head to the door of the manor and turned back to look at his allies. "I'm well aware of the situation Yugure. Kurosaki had contacted me before I was defeated by Hana. I'll meet you at the airport. I need to take care of a few things." He then walked out.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on October 08, 2015, 11:43:38 PM: Hawaii... Hawaii...

Taking down Nebula Lord is a thing, but it was common sense that it was doable with just one person, not that she was underestimating the enemy, but Hana just had confidence in her allies. Most of all, she just needed to relax. She packed her belonging in an orderly manner, going back down the stairs to help clean up the dishes after her egg dinner. A worker in the meantime already set her belonging within the car which they were using to get to the airport and what-not. After a year of idol work straight to this, a vacation desu was nice. If only Mi-hime could come along. She noticed the large group that had already gathered. School friends and Cardfight Club friends alike, it was nice.

"Aren't you going to go talk to them?" Meer asked her.
"I'm sleepy why." She responded back.

She dragged her feet over to them, reluctant to do so after a long day. How2idolpersona. Hana was having a hard time getting into it, but she reassured herself that she was deeply trained in this and that she could do this in her sleep. All the late night shows would finally pay off.

"Ohio... Mississippi-sons (Ohayou Minna-san)" She greeted, her eyelids almost shutting themselves."Waht is a neices knight... oh. (What a naisu naito)"

So far so good Hana, so far so good.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: OverDrive on October 08, 2015, 11:55:09 PM: Haruto just stood next to Yugure as he watched and listened to the interactions happening around him. He was surprised to see Hana Espoir make her entrance, clumsy but she must be tired, for now he just began looking forward to the trip although he was naturally curious about this..Nebula character that everyone was referring to.

"..Yugure...this is just a vacation...right?" he asked, his eyes partly innocent and partly serious.

"..Aniki...I hope you come join us soon..." he thought, lowering his head down.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Golden Sage NovaRaizer on October 08, 2015, 11:56:16 PM: "Yeah, Xat used to be an assassin from what she told me," he said more casually then a person saying that sentence probably ever should. "She can probably sneak around and get something we need. Then again going all this way means we probably know enough as it is."

He saw Hana after that. Back to her old self it seemed. He remembered the moment she had Reversed herself... somehow. He had seen it happen but didn't understand exactly what happened at that time. As long as she was okay now it was fine. "Hey Hana, glad you're back to normal too. I guess that means just about everyone is okay."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: xateramusa on October 09, 2015, 12:00:12 AM: Xat turned to Darren with a scrowl on her face. "I never told you that. So how did you find out?" She said with a cold voice that could even freeze the tropics. It was a pass that she didn't want to relive and was kind of peeveed at Darren for blirting it out without permission. What trust Darren has earned with Xat had now decreased. It was her secret and not his to tell. She silently then decided to not talk to him for a while. Not caring what the others think \.

Darren af -1
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cipher Izanagi on October 09, 2015, 12:06:43 AM: Well the party just continued to get even more rowdy. Good thing he guessed. It'd give everyone a chance to bond and interact. It'd be nice to see certain people relax though. In any case, the male would of waved to Hana as she showed up, but instead nodded. He's still carrying Noel after all. "Good Evening. Good to see you're doing well." he replied to her, noting she wasn't how he'd seen her recently. Good, someone had unreversed her. Glancing at Yukino as he stood next to Rosalia he nodded slightly. "I know. We'll focus on that first. But everyone's stressed out, so after, let's all hit the beach or something." he tried to make sure she at least relaxed a bit, though he vaguely thought he heard the word assassin. Oh well, he's tired so he probably heard wrong.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Golden Sage NovaRaizer on October 09, 2015, 12:14:00 AM: Darren frowned as he realized he had said something Xat didn't want him to. He had completely forgotten he had heard about that through her unit speaking to his and not through her. What's worse is that not hearing it from her make it unclear how much it hurt her to have it said. He realized he said something wrong as he went up to her and said, "I'm sorry, Xat! I didn't realize... I won't say anything else about that. Can you forgive me at all?"
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: xateramusa on October 09, 2015, 12:20:44 AM: " I will think about it." Was all she said as she turned and walked away back to Mikalea's side. She proply would forgive him but not anytime soon.

"I'm sorry I didn't know he would blurt it out." Shirayuki said feeling kind of shock he would do such a thing. Xat on the other hand was not wanting to forgive him so easly but knew in time she would forgive him. She decided it will all depend on what he dose. She knew he was sorry but sence she was raised as an assassin she knew sorry was just a word and thats all it was.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 09, 2015, 12:22:20 AM: "We're ready, mistress", a driver spoke to Yugure.

"Everyone get in", Yugure commanded. "We'll be there by tomorrow morning."

The soldier heard Darren very clearly on the assassin topic, and chose not to pry into it. Hana was tired and Haruto seemed worried, not only that but Seifer was pushing this relaxing thing. Feh, if that was what they really wanted to do, that's fine. Hikaru's personal affair was noted and she still expected to see him and Tsubasa at the Beach House. It was generally just a lot of keep track of, and already brought a headache.

Still, she managed to give Haruto a smile. "It's... more than that. But nothing to worry about, it shall be settled."

An arm wrapped around the sleepy Hana, acting as support for the princess.

"You can sleep in the car."
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on October 09, 2015, 12:26:59 AM: It was probably around this time the last time that she saw everyone gathered together and at the time she had the desire to kill them all and almost did so. Nice memories to think of actually. "Nyes. Nyello minna sams." She scratched her eyes and walked past them. She didn't know who the assassin person was, but it was good to know that they had someone who could do assassin things on their side because it would be bad if this person was not on their side. Darobo was look swell sort of. Tsubaka mini-clone was looking mini-clone baka. Red-chan was looking red. Nowelp was asleep which Hana was then jealous of. Sliffer was carrying Nowelp. Yukinee wasn't carrying Hana. Ugh.

Ok now she was.

"Haiku , sudoku pla- woo - nissans ride ugh ? ti1me #yolo . PAcifica fetch me a drink. (???)" She shook her head.

Minette sent Hana a message read aloud, it was from the Oracle Think Tanks.

"Satoshi... Hawaii islands... ocean... of.... thirst...." Hana blurted out. Someone needs to fire the Captain Obvious who wasted United Sanctuary's budget on obtaining this info.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cipher Izanagi on October 09, 2015, 12:30:18 AM: The brunette followed suit, setting Noel in first, letting Rosalia go before him, then climbing in after her. He'd never actually been in a limo so this was pretty cool. They'd be there by tomorrow morning though. Hm... Maybe he should get some sleep in the car as well honestly. He was, and even looked, rather exhausted from what he'd been through today. Though, he didn't fall asleep immediately. Rather, he pulled out his Kagero deck to look it over, skimming through it quietly. He still had to be ready for anything at this point.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Golden Sage NovaRaizer on October 09, 2015, 12:37:09 AM: Darren sighed lightly as he saw everyone was getting into the limo one by one. He would have to make this up to her somehow. He would think of something to do for Xat. Until then, he decided it would be best not to make it worse. Darren never really spent an extended amount of time dealing with people outside of the Cardfight Club where he was fighting. Why did it have to be so complicated? He got into the limo, leaving space for Xat and Mikalea to sit with him if they so wanted to.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: xateramusa on October 09, 2015, 12:40:46 AM: Xat let Mikaela sit in next to Darren and then climb in after them. She took out a pencil and began to draw her favorite flower a night bloom ceres as she waited for the others to get in.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: OverDrive on October 09, 2015, 12:44:42 AM: Haruto entered the vehicle as carefully as he could, everyone seemed either serious, sleepy or asleep. He did not want to cause any bother so since Yugure was tending to her sister he decided to sit next to other familiar face he knew, Seifer.

"You play Vanguard too Seifer?" he asked, his eyes filled with curiosity as he had never seen fire dragons like the ones Seifer was holding.

"They look cool, they're very different from my brother's paladins." he said.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cipher Izanagi on October 09, 2015, 12:48:02 AM: Seifer had just passed Nouvelle when Tsubasa's little brother spoke up. Nodding he gave a slight smile, holding the deck out to him for Haruto to look through. "Yeah, I think everyone here does. What about you? Did Tsubasa show you how to play?" the brunette asked the younger male, watching as he probably looked through his cards. Casual conversation might be a good thing really.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on October 09, 2015, 12:52:37 AM: "I need trainin'! Let me go coach! Let me!" Garmore was waking Hana up.
"UGH"
"I'm feeling like having another shot at Ahmes." Nociel now.
"UGUUU"
"We need to get ready for this anyways." Minette.
"UGUUUUUUUUU"
"WAKE UP!" Meer punched her gut internally.

Hana followed everyone else into the auto mobile and took her naisu naisu seat. It would go vroom, but not in the same loud and scary as the motorcycle did which was good. Sitting next to her sister in the limo, she conjured up a light panel out of habit. "Er... Limo's ... feet yours. (features)." She had her four decks laid out on it.

"I feel like fight. lol." Hana lol'd. "Yukinee Nociel challenges thee specificall ee."

Though anyone was free to fight as well.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: OverDrive on October 09, 2015, 12:54:15 AM: Haruto's eyes only seemed to widen more as he saw the different cards, they just gave off a different aura than his brother's cards which made him that much more curious.

"Everyone here plays??! That's amazing, but no Aniki never showed me how to play, you see the issue was we hardly got the chance to spend time together that much it was only recently that we started hanging out more...I guess I forgot to ask too haha.." he said, placing his hand on the back of his head.

His surprise only grew more when he saw what Hana just did though ,"Gosh if she needs to rest maybe she should give herself a break." he thought.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Golden Sage NovaRaizer on October 09, 2015, 12:59:13 AM: Darren decided to take the time in the car to look through his deck. He felt like he could make its winning image faster if he was prepared to be riskier with its makeup. He probably had no choice as he remembered Oshiro and knew that if people like Hana and Noel could be Reversed that he was going to have to be at his best. Hana did tell him that he had to be willing to take risks in order to win sometimes.

He looked over at what Xat was doing, seeing her draw a flower. If a flower like that really existed, maybe she would like to have one for herself. If he wasn't going to fight himself while he was out in Hawaii, he would use his off time to find one.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Cherry on October 09, 2015, 01:02:23 AM: Yugure wasn't even going to try and comprehend the first statement that came out of Hana's mouth. Something about haiku and sudoku. Giving a light chuckle, the queen helped the drowsy princess into the limo with everyone else. She told the driver to get moving, and they did just that. This was a good position, as everyone could be watched over this way. Even though everyone was asleep or having a quiet discussion with someone else. That simply left her to plot, mostly plans concerning when they'd return from Hawaii.

Then Hana weirdly spoke of a challenge.

"Not right now", Yugure declined, wanting to focus. Perhaps when everyone's... "relaxing", as they put it, is when she would accept.

Alfred stated that he wants the person who told Hana to say the obvious from earlier to come into his office.

If Amaterasu wasn't going to fire them, he probably was. Out of a cannon.

Ahmes calmly reminded his majesty to watch his scaling blood pressure, attempting to ward his wrath.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: xateramusa on October 09, 2015, 01:08:19 AM: Xat finished drawing her flower and smiled at it, before placing it back in her beg, she then closed her eyes and thought about all the things that happen to her, and how her life has changed thanks to vanguard in that sence she made up her mind. Darren didn't really relize what he did until after it was done and it was a mistake,a nd that she should be one to judge sence she had done alot of things she feels guilty for. SO with that thought in mind she decided when she arrived on Hawaii she will tell Darren she forgave him.

Shirayuki appered but only in Darrens eyes as she held out her hand in it was a flower."Give this flower some moonlight and it will bloom into a beautyful flower. Don't ask how i got here lets just say with all the energy here i am able to give this to you." She said as she placed it in his pocket carefully.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Hope on October 09, 2015, 01:19:25 AM: "Aw." Nociel sighed.
"Rejecteddd..." Hana groaned.

Maybe it was just time to sleep. It's been awhile since she's had a fight just the sake of a fight and basically just wanted that. She thought of asking the others but decided not to in order to spare herself the embarrassment. She laid out her Gold Paladin cards on the light panel and starter switching some things around. After that, she did similarly with her Great Nature deck.

"Everyone here plays," she smiled at the little Tsubaka clone as she organized her cards.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: Golden Sage NovaRaizer on October 09, 2015, 01:24:50 AM: Darren saw Shirayuki when he closed his eyes. Seeing the flower and exactly what it looked like down to its colors helped him a lot. Unfortunately, when he opened his eyes, it wasn't in his hands. At least now he knew what to do. He moved his hand to his pocket, blinking as he felt it there. What did she say? With the energy here, she could appear before him. Did that mean the energy of people like Seifer, Hana, and Yugure who could materialize units helped her to give him what he needed? Whatever the case, he had to take the flower out of his pocket carefully, letting it bask in the moonlight so it could bloom. At the same time, he let out a yawn as he was getting quite tired.
Title: Re: (GS3) Home Field: Espoir Mansion
Post by: OverDrive on October 09, 2015, 01:38:15 AM: Haruto was taking note of all the names he was hearing but overtime his ability to stay awake was being challenged due to his current state, it was getting late and he had not had proper sleep in two days because of that psycho. Nevertheless, one thing did cause him to smile and be rather excited, he was addressed by the Idol he would see on TV.

"She just smiled at me...Yesss!!!" he thought, trying to contain his excitement.

"Hehe, I hope I get to learn how to play sometime, but right now -yawn- if you'll excuse me guys I'll get some rest." he said, smiling back to Hana and laying back a bit the main thought crossing his mind, is getting to play with Hana, Seifer and everyone there, maybe even get to know them better. With that the young boy fell asleep a smile planted on his face as he drifted away.