Toxoglossa 2018/07/04(Wed)17:33 No. 891197 ID: 7816e7
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Gabe adjusts his new mantle. To anyone unfamiliar with the Sender orders, two inches of extra cloth may not seem like a lot; but the added length represents recognition of skill and service.

Toxoglossa 2018/07/04(Wed)17:34 No. 891198 ID: 7816e7
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He looks at himself in the mirror and brushes at his suit, the same one he wore when he first arrived in the big city. The seams creak and complain about the inches he’s grown since then. He tugs at the collar, getting a little claustrophobic wearing so much cloth. “Man, I can never get used to these things...”

“Aw, but you look so good!” Casey sits on the bed, checking out the well dressed rodent. “And your new cape looks nice! Congratulations, Sender of the fourth order!”

Gabe smirks, “Thanks. I mean, I feel like Kol did most of the hard work with helping Adrian. But I guess sending a lich counts for something.”

>>891198
so whens the party?

>>891198
Don't worry about it Gabe, that's teamwork.

Speaking of Kol, how come he's absent at this particular moment of time?

>>891198
Geez, I almost didn’t recognize Gabe with all of his clothes on!

>The seams creak and complain about the inches he’s grown since then.
Did he grow vertically or horizontally? Because one of those can’t be stopped, while the other can be controlled or reversed if necessary.

>Congratulations, Sender of the fourth order!
So, this is basically a promotion ceremony, right? Are all 3 of you getting a promotion?

>I feel like Kol did most of the hard work with helping Adrian.
True, but I don’t think anyone would react positively to him willingly sharing his body with a lich, regardless of how friendly the lich was.

Speaking of which, is that still a secret or did one of you tell someone?

Yay, promotions!
Is there an event for such occasion?
Hey, when are you going to got on a date with the lady dog?
Or did you had that one already?

>>891198
He worked hard during that job too.

"Something," Gabe? You not only sent a lich, but managed it in a non-violent, peaceful, and outright heartwarming manner. Add to it that you put a local myth to bed and helped a selkie return to the ocean. You more than deserve a promotion, buddy.

>>891198
As well as juggling like a dozen other portals throughout that day. With only a single tree as a victim!

It'll feel much more rewarding when you take them off tonight!

Toxoglossa 2018/07/06(Fri)18:14 No. 891456 ID: 7816e7
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“Well, you did also open a portal onto a moving boat, and brought your partner to safety. I think that deserves some recognition.” She drapes her arms around his shoulders, framing his new mantle. "We're proud of you!"

Gabe leans his head against hers, "Thanks… too bad Binders and Mediums don't use ranks; you guys deserve a promotion too."

"Eh, its implied. Anyway Binders have their own ways of organizing things; and Mediums…"

"-Are Mediums: we don't go in for that kind of stuff." Says Kol, joining them in the bedroom. "How's it going? You excited for your big night?"

"Kinda nervous but I think I'm ready."

Casey seals things with a peck on the cheek. "Better get going then."

Toxoglossa 2018/07/06(Fri)18:14 No. 891457 ID: 7816e7
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A few minutes later, a crack of thunder announces Gabe's arrival.

Tall grass brushes against his suit and small insects sing to one another under a cloudless starry sky. Gabe closes his eyes: if it weren't for the muted crash of the ocean, he could think he was back home taking a night walk in the orchard

>>891457
sit in the grass and take in the smell of magic

Steady on, Sender. Take a breath and take one step. Then take another.

Alright. Just keep calm and enter the building. Don't make a big deal out of it. Say hello to whoever, shake whatever hands need to be shaken, accept the promotion, say a few words of thanks, grab a few snacks, then portal home. You'll be done before you know it.

You got this.

>>891457
You heard the others, you got this!
It's okay to be nervous but no more than any semi-important job event, that's all this is.

I know this might sound conterproductive, but what is that is making you nervius?

Toxoglossa 2018/07/08(Sun)12:24 No. 891698 ID: 7816e7
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He approaches the cottage and the front door opens, spilling warm light into the countryside. "Nice night isn't it?"

>>891698
Is that Delilah?

Gabe, are you bringing her with you to your promotion ceremony? Or are you taking her out on a date? Or is it both?

>>891702
Also, compliment her on how pretty she looks!

Now that is a sight for sore eyes. Drink that in. Arm in arm, yeah?

"Not half as nice as you"
But yeah, comment on how that dress is fuckin' killer.

Sometimes it's nice to remember that you're a really lucky mouse. If you're nervous, why not lean on Delilah?

>>891698
oh my goshhhhhhhh you are so pretty!

Wow, just wow. How need to be fucked by a god when you can have a date with this beauty.

Toxoglossa 2018/07/08(Sun)17:31 No. 891752 ID: 7816e7
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"Not half as nice as you." Gabe extends his palm and she puts a gloved hand in his. "That dress is amazing, Del." He drinks in the vision of elegant power draped in silk and satin.

"You like it? One of Miki's friends made it. That girl knows everybody and then some. I'm so excited! I never get to dress up!" she bubbles. "So, where are you taking me tonight, Mr. Sender?"

Gabe makes a gesture, opening up a blazing white tunnel. "I thought we could start-"

Toxoglossa 2018/07/08(Sun)17:31 No. 891753 ID: 7816e7
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"-With a little entertainment." They step through, taking them to the front of the Moot Point Opera house. Lit with a thousand shimmering lights and glowing from within, it bustles with well dressed patrons of the arts.

Despite herself, Delilah's jaw drops, "Ohhh, I've never seen it at night!"

>>891753
wow its almost half as pretty as Delilah. go on in then

Nice thought, you have this on the bag my boy.

You got this on lock, boy. Show the lady a good time.

Arm in arm, you're going to go to your decent seats with class! And look really calm!

>>891753
Pulling out all the stops, eh? Remember, try to focus on the music. Don't get bored in there!

Toxoglossa 2018/07/09(Mon)18:59 No. 891895 ID: 7816e7
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Arm in arm, the pair waltz through the entrance and take in the glittering jewel box of within. Standing under a ton of suspended glass and crystal, the walls echo with the murmured voices of the well to do. Everyone is standing around in small groups, sipping light and sparkly drinks and making intense conversation. "Hm, doesn’t look like they're seating anyone yet…" Gabe notices.

>>891895
Might as well converse with the other people, see what they've been up to.

Dancefloor?

>>891895
Maybe pick up a drink while you wait? Do you recognize anyone the crowd?

>>891930
Oh, is Mr. Ochre here or is this not his kinda thing?

Oh then you need sparkly drinks. And maybe you notice someone familiar? You could just talk amongst yourselves.

head over to the bar and get yourself and Del something suitably classy :3

>>891949
If he is here, I wonder if he brought Flashing feathers, Joyous blue of the perfect sky with him? I’m also wondering if he’s gotten a shorter, easier to pronounce name.

Toxoglossa 2018/07/10(Tue)17:22 No. 892033 ID: 7816e7
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Gabe and Delilah acquire flutes of champagne and mingle with the crowd.

“Having fun?”

“Absolutely,” Delilah smile as she takes a sip, “I feel a little out of place though.”

“Heh, same here. But at least we can be out of place together.”

“Here’s to that.” Their glasses clink in mutual celebration. “I wonder what’s going on...” Delilah looks around, noticing a general restlessness to the crowd. Some patrons have clearly been waiting for some time and are becoming irritable.

Toxoglossa 2018/07/10(Tue)17:23 No. 892034 ID: 7816e7
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Before Gabe can answer, he feels a tug at the end of his mantle. He turns and, seeing no one, looks down. A small figure in a tuxedo stands nervously at attention, “Pardon me sir. I don’t mean to intrude, but may I bend your ear for a moment? “

>>892034
Well that's very forward of them. Your ears are sensitive!

What's up?

"You have thirteen words to warn me of anything. Choose wisely."

If there's a champagne shortage, I can't really help with that and be in good standing with the law.

>>892034
"If it has to do with money or religion, I'd rather not."

>>892037
I mean, they're rather cute but you're here with someone!

How fresh of you, can you see i am taken?
Any way, what seem to be the problem, everybody looks stressed.

He recognizes you and is quit exited, he may be hoping for sexy adventures later.
I've also just realized that you have helped two separate people find love, one is Miki who knows everyone and the other is Mr.Ochre who is now in a relationship with a GOD.
I think you guys may be getting a reputation. People may start thinking that hanging out with you may lead to adventures and possible romance with mythical creatures.

>>892034

No, I assure you, the guttering light backstage is an old theater tradition and isn't lichfire.

Well, shouldn't be.

… Okay, so clearly there's a ghastly opera singer on the loose.

Given that this is a total stranger, they must be interested in Gabe because of his Sender gear.

"Of course. You alright, sir? You seem a little flustered."

Toxoglossa 2018/07/11(Wed)19:40 No. 892249 ID: 7816e7
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“I mean, I’m normally into that kinda thing but I’m already here with someone...” Gabe sips his sparkling wine.

The frog stares blankly, struggling to parse the response. “Er, what?”

“Ear stuff, right? And people say I’m forward.”

“He wanted to ask you a question, Gabe.” Delilah clarifies.

“Oh! Well, sure. What’cha got?”

Feeling himself approach something closer to sanity, the frog assembles his thoughts. “I- I- ah, oh dear where to begin? Perhaps I should introduce myself: Aberdeen Auzaleus. I am- ah- the Impresario of this production of A Dream of Two Queens. I have- er- found myself in a bit of a situation regarding one of our performers...” The amphibian fidgets uncomfortably, as having to admit to an embarrassing illness.

“You need an understudy? I’m kinda busy-“

“No! Nothing like that. Its- its just that- I noticed, from your regalia, that you appear to be a member of the Spirit Guides. I was wondering if...”

“Is someone dead?” Gabe cocks an eyebrow and looks around with concern.

“No! Fates, keep your voice down!” The impresario clutches at his throat, his whole body seeming to inflate slightly. Once he seems to have regained his composure he continues, “No, I was wondering whether it might be possible for you to speak with one of our performers. She has- er- expressed concerns about tonight’s performance...”

>>892249
I can try but you might want to hire my partner Kol Bardo for this

"Aha. I'm Sender Gabe and I'd be happy to help you, Mr A! Especially if the show isn't starting until this issue gets resolved...?"

Give him a questioning look.

"Anyway, perhaps as we go backstage you could tell me why this lady would want to speak to a Spirit Guide?"

Then gesture gentlemanly at Delilah while offering her a smile.

"... and you will allow my dear companion here to come along won't you? Getting to go backstage to speak to one of the performers would be a bit of a treat, wouldn't it, Del?"

>>892249
>his whole body seeming to inflate slightly.
Seeing as he’s a toad/frog, that’s not surprising.

What is surprising is the fact that his clothes don’t seem to be ripping.

>>892258
All of this.

Got a phantom in the opera eh?

Well I can give you a hand. And have friends that can help out if its something complicated.

Lead me to her.

>>892258
yeah, this is the best idea. Seconding it.

>>892249
I mean if they're worried about something I'm capable of dealing with, regardless of circumstance someone has died. At some point.

This was supposed to be a nice night with my girlfriend, but... Delilah, you okay if we go look? I guess this was inevitable, but we take care of it, and we'll be able to get this opera started.

I mean, as long as your date isn't left wanting for company. What's on the docket? Pep talk? Emergency McGuffin run? .. Something sensitive?

"I'll talk to her, at least, and do what I can. Delilah here is also very good at encouraging people, if she'd like to help as well?"

Gotta ask Delilah if it's ok if you check this out. This is you guys' night. Helping this performer sounds like a great idea, but you don't want to brush her off.

Guess we are going to have to fix this problem ourselves, eh?
Ready to give a spirit guide a hand again Delilah?

What kind of "concerns?"

>>892249

Don't see why we can't, as long as Delilah is okay with it.

Phantom of the Opera, huh? Try to keep the pitchforks and torches to a minimum, sir.

An opera house? This town has everything.

>>892590
considering this town may or may not BE everything, if it didn't have an opera house it would be lacking

Toxoglossa 2018/07/13(Fri)17:07 No. 892644 ID: 7816e7
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“What do you think, Delilah? This is supposed to be our night.”

“Well… It sounds like, unless we help, there's no show. It couldn’t hurt to try talking to her.” The healer shrugs.

“Yeahhhh. I mean, I'm not as good as Kol,” Gabe admits, ”-but I'll give it a shot."

The couple follows the impresario through a tucked away set of doors, down a hallway and into the tangled jungle backstage. Crates of props sit in lopsided stacks under a cats cradle of ropes and pulleys. Long, rolled up canvas backdrops are piled like lumber behind racks of exotic costumes. A dozen stagehands pass nervous cigarettes between each other before scampering off at the sight of Aberdeen.

"So why do you need a spirit guide?

Aberdeen sighs, “Its our star, Vivian: no one else has a voice like hers, we never bothered with an understudy. Without her, there’s no show! But she’s convinced that the opera house is haunted and refuses to go out on stage.”

“Well, is it?” Deliah asks peering into the spidery corners behind the curtains.

“No one is sure...” He shrugs, “We had Spirit Guides come through a few months ago and they found nothing. But... some events have happened and... I just don’t know anymore!”

Toxoglossa 2018/07/13(Fri)17:07 No. 892645 ID: 7816e7
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The frog approaches a door set far back from the curtain. The brick wall opposite is splashed with a starburst of fragrant liquid. Beneath it, an ancient looking stagehand sweeps up the shattered remains of a perfume bottle. He deposits the glass into a trashcan and shuffles off, grumbling something about divas. A Crane in theatrical armor knocks timidly on the door, “Vivian? Its Clarence. Come on dear, talk to me...”

A growl slips under the door in a low flat note.

Perfume thrown by a poltergeist? Or just an angry star? Announce yourself as a Spirit Guide through the door, maybe that'll get a reaction.

>>892645
She mad. Introduce yourself through the door, ask if you can help with their haunting.

What do you mean, "Some events happened"? Approach the door. State who you are. You're here to help.

Stride up and introduce yourself all professional-like.

>>892645
annaunce yourself as part of the Ghost fuckers Spirit Guide group here to fuck up some ghosts.

Alrighty then, start asking questions, after you introduce yourself. What caused all this commotion?

Toxoglossa 2018/07/14(Sat)15:21 No. 892844 ID: 7816e7
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Aberdeen takes a deep breath and walks up to the door, despite urgent hand signals from Clarence. "Vivian? Its Aberdeen."

The response hammers through the door like a wall of sound, "Oh fuck off Abe!"

"Viv, I've got someone here to talk to you-"

"I don't care, Abe!"

"Now, now! Why don't you introduce yourselves?" the impresario waves the pair closer.

"Uh… Hi?" Gabe steps forward, "I, uh, I'm Gabriel Wikk. I'm a Sender: fourth order."

"I'm Delilah Magallon. I'm a healer and, well, a lifeguard."

"A sender, huh?" There's a thoughtful silence from behind the wood. "So, what's up? Abe send you to tell me there's no ghosts or something?"

Actually, we're here to see what's going on. What made you think there was a ghost to start with?

>So, what's up? Abe send you to tell me there's no ghosts or something?
Well maybe, but I only just got here. Too soon to be saying ghost or no ghost.

You think you could tell me what's been happening?

>>892844

"He hasn't told me much beyond that Spirit Guides had been here before to check the area. I'd appreciate it if you shared your concerns with us."

>>892844
Tell her you're a guest but you would earnestly like to find out what the problem is here, ghost or no ghost.

Tell her that's what you're here to find out. Get her side of the story, then we can get on with the investigation.

>>892844
>"So, what's up? Abe send you to tell me there's no ghosts or something?"
“Actually, we came here on a date and were waiting for the show to start when he came to get us.”

“But that’s not important right now. You claimed the theater is haunted and I’m going to investigate. But first in need to ask you a few questions. May we please come in?”

"I haven't looked, myself, though I've heard others have. I probably don't have time to, now, but how if I played spiritual bodyguard for you until the play? I'll be watching during, and during intermission and after, I could come backstage again. Call that an opening offer - I'd like to hear more from you, to fine-tune it a bit. Can I come in?"

Nope. We're here to look for one. Though we're also prepared for it to turn out to be a fae or something, considering our luck. But we're certainly ready to find something supernatural.

Toxoglossa 2018/07/14(Sat)22:57 No. 892967 ID: 7816e7
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"No. I mean, we were just here on a date. We hadn't heard anything about a ghost until a few minutes ago. Uh… can you tell us more about it?"

There's more silence. The lock clicks and a voice is heard, "Alright, come in. Just the two of you."

Gabe and Delilah share a glance and a shrug. They open the door and close it behind them, catching a worried look from Aberdeen as they do.

Vivian frowns, huffing a cloud of fragrant smoke into the tiny dressing room. "Boy, you don't look like much." She sizes up Delilah, "Your plus one, however, is A+." She grins, exposing rows of needle-like teeth. "So, you want to hear about the ghost? Fine." The kitsune leans back in her chair and takes another drag off of her hookah.

"Things didn't start until dress rehearsal. Lights would go off, backdrops would change and the curtains would open and close. At first we just thought it was just one of the newer stagehands missing his cues, but…" Vivian pauses. "Clarence had a trapdoor open up under him, fortunately it wasn’t too bad of a fall. I, on the other hand, had to dodge a sandbag from the catwalk near the end of the second act."

"And you think it was a ghost?" Gabe scratches his chin.

"No one was on the catwalk when we checked, and no one was near the trapdoor controls."

Toxoglossa 2018/07/14(Sat)22:58 No. 892968 ID: 7816e7
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"Could it have been something else? " Delilah shrugs.

Smoke rolls from Vivian's lips as she explains, "Not a fae. No fae is going to mess with a performance. Its like… sacrilege. 'The show must go on': that’s more then just a rule to us, its more like a law." The kitsune glares at them, "That's why I'm so worried. If I go out there, I must perform; even if it kills me. If Abe wants a show, I need some kind of guarantee of safety."

You could have a portal halo set up at all times to catch any incoming threats, but you expect to be paid for three consecutive hours of power burning.

You accept gold and bodily fluids.

>>892968
Well, you could definitely open portals to catch sandbags. If there's any way to keep your mana up, you could just straight up keep portals open under the sandbags when they're not in use. Are there any other hazards at play? You could run interference if the ghost drops all subtlety and tries to throw things around. If something gets through, Deliah could heal the resulting injury.

It sounds like whatever ghost is at play is really angry about the show for some reason. Did any critics die recently? Or did someone die in the theatre itself?

>>892967
It sounds like these things have only happened on the stage. Ask Vivian if anything has happened backstage or in the dressing rooms?

Ask if the room suddenly got colder just before something happened?

>>892968
>Not a fae
Could it have been an elemental? Most of the things that happened involved something that’s got controls to it and the controls run on electricity, so it might’ve been an electric elemental.

Then again, it could’ve been someone that auditioned for the role, but Vivian got picked instead of them. Meaning someone doesn’t want this show to happen because they think they should be in the show and not Vivian.

...wait, was the sandbag's rope cut?

>>892968
hi I am a sender emergency teleportation is my game. not to mention a good strong healer to lay hands on you. and if we catch sight of the mischief maker I can take care of them

Well you have my portals to catch anything that might fall.. but the determined won't stop there. What else has happened?

>>892979
Yeah, let's do some old fashioned investigation before we start making promises to be a bodyguard.

Ask her if there's any other ghosty things she can think of, or just unusual but otherwise unremarkable. Then see if we can look at the "crime scene".

Also consider sighing at being insulted seconds upon meeting her.

>>892968
One possibility is that it couldn't be supernatural at all, rather someone mortal who just has massive hateboner against faes (maybe kitsunes in particular) for some reason or something like that.

>>892992
Or against her in particular, given her personality. She'd have enemies no matter her race.

>>892968
Leading theories are: ghost, some kinda elemental, and angry regular person (who might be a fellow performer or former performer)

If there was time maybe it'd be a good idea to sit in on a quick rehearsal and see what happens? I imagine a ghost would interfere at every opportunity while the other options would wait for an ideal moment when not observed (and what they do then do will be telling)

"Could you tell us about this particular play? Maybe there's something about it that the ghost is opposed to?"

>>893007
Adding on to this, what if it isn't the place thats haunted, maybe its the play itself? That might explain why other spirit guides could'nt find anything.

Any idea of someone trying to hurt you or ruin your performance?
Any more suspicious activity, any signs or traces of magic? Anything you can tell us can help.

>>892968
"Do you know if this play has been performed here in the past?"

Toxoglossa 2018/07/16(Mon)19:17 No. 893274 ID: 7816e7
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“I could use my gates to keep you safe on stage. As long as I have a good view, I should be able to catch anything unexpected.” Gabe points to his Sender mantle.

“You any good?” Vivian cocks an eyebrow.

“I dropped my crew onto a moving boat about a half-mile out.”

“That was you? The boat with the lich, right?” A modicum of respect suffuses her contralto drawl. “Innnnteresting.”

“And I’m a healer, should anything go wrong.” Delilah points out.

“I would hope it wouldn’t come to that, but good to know...” The kitsune rests her chin on interwoven fingers. “I’m liking my odds more and more.”

Toxoglossa 2018/07/16(Mon)19:17 No. 893275 ID: 7816e7
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“Tell me, is there anyone else that might do these kinds of things? People that want to sabotage the show? Jealous rivals? ... spurned lovers?”

She sighs, “There are, sadly, plenty of people that have problems with me, specifically. Saying I use glamour to enrapture people rather than talent.” She bristles and spits, “People who say its unfair that I can shapeshift or change my vocal range. I'm sure there's assholes who would love to steal my role, but I can't say I know anybody who'd kill for it.”

“Still, we can’t rule out a mortal saboteur.” Delilah nods.

Toxoglossa 2018/07/16(Mon)19:17 No. 893276 ID: 7816e7
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Gabe raises a hand. “Hey, real quick, what’s this opera about anyway?”

“You really don’t know?” Vivian chuckles like rich chocolate.

“Wasn’t covered in my training.” Gabe admits. "I just thought it'd be fun to go someplace fancy."

She shakes her head, "You know, to be honest, I think most of my audience is just here to look classy." She sighs.

“A Dream of Two Queens is about two Fae queens, Magra and Morrigon, that stumble across a sleeping soldier, Claudio. Upon seeing him, they both fall in love with him at first sight and argue over who he should belong to. They enter his dreams and challenge each other to a contest of wills to find his heart and claim it for their own, traveling through memories of his life. But in the final act they find that they have fallen in love with each other and leave the soldier to wake up, thinking it was all a dream.”

>>893276
I like it! Only reason I can think of for a ghost to hate the play itself is if they've got a crush on the actress playing the other fae. I wonder if she's experienced anything unusual?

Ooh, spicy!
The more reason to solve this mystery!
I really want see this play.

>>893276
Sounds exquisite. We'll be more than happy to pull a little guard duty while they perform.

This is what Shakespeare would write if he was trapped in a sex quest.

... Come to think of it, who wrote this play? Maybe someone just wants to sabotage it due to creative or political issues, and not a personal attack on the vulnerable lead.

I mean, I'd definitely like to watch the performance without playing bodyguard, but what can you do. I'd still like to look for any evidence on and behind stage before we decide to get things rolling.

Love the premises. Hopefully we can solve this quickly so we can enjoy the rest of the performance properly. Is there any evidence left over from the previous attempts? We can look those over. Who will be playing the other Queen?

Toxoglossa 2018/07/18(Wed)20:24 No. 893586 ID: 7816e7
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Delilah mulls this over, “Kind of a controversial production, isn’t it?“

The singer laughs darkly, “Of course it is. Art is meant to provoke.
Its an achronological narrative. A deconstruction of the hero’s journey that follows Claudio back to his origins and explores the toll his path has taken on him. Also the first major production written by a mortal, Edvard Shmuntz, to use a fey pentatonic scale.”

Delilah thinks for a minute, “What about your co-stars? Do you think they might be involved?”

“Rose and Clarence? I mean, some days we all want to strangle one another but that’s perfectly natural in our line of work.” She tosses her hair, “We’ve all seen each other at our worst. None of them would go this far.”

Toxoglossa 2018/07/18(Wed)20:25 No. 893587 ID: 7816e7
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There’s a knock at the door. Aberdeen’s voice “Um, hey I hate to break things up, but there are a number of patrons that have been drinking for quite a while and are starting to get demanding.”

Vivian stares at the door while her internal debate rages, her face a perfect mask of alabaster calm. Finally she stands and crosses to the door, throwing it open. “I want these two in a box with the best view: they need to be able to see everything. Get the pit warmed up and start seating.” She sighs, “And while you’re at it, say a little prayer to Minerva.”

“Also, we’d like to inspect the stage before everything starts.” Gabe suggests, “I want to see if there’s any clues about what’s been happening”

The impresario sags as he deflates, pressure quite literally leaving his body. “Sure, fine, just be quick about it. Th- thank you both!” He straightens up and rushes off to prepare.

Vivian turns back to her new bodyguards, “I’m counting on you two. Get me through this show alive and I’ll give you a performance people will be talking about for years.” She gives them a brilliant smile that seems to glitter with a life of its own. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I have to get changed.”

Toxoglossa 2018/07/18(Wed)20:25 No. 893588 ID: 7816e7
File 153197070837.png - (166.98KB , 700x700 , 6-23.png )

The couple step out of the cramped room. Waiting outside is the young crane in tin armor, Clarence, and a komodo woman glittering with rhinestone on her scales and feathers on her back.

Say hello and ask if they've been attacked too.

How are you two fairing? What have you seen?

>>893588
Time to start asking questions.

Uh, hey? Do you two have anything to add to the "investigation"? Know anything Vivian wouldn't?

Hey you two, don't need to worry about your main lady, she is good to go and we will take care of her.
Say, do you have any useful information about what is going on?

>>893588
We're in full PI mode now. Let's get to it.
Question these thespians. See what they know about these theatrical threats.

>>893588
Introduce yourself to her costars, find out what their impressions of what's going on are. (Do they Share Viv's concerns? Have they not noticed any problems and they're worried about Vivian? Or... well there's a lot of possible variations. Try not to lead them, and just see what they think, at first).

Toxoglossa 2018/07/22(Sun)15:54 No. 893990 ID: 7816e7
File 153230008515.png - (154.35KB , 700x640 , 6-24.png )

"You're the Spirit Guides, right?" the komodo asks.

Delilah points to her date, "Just Gabe is, I'm a healer though. Are you Vivian's co-stars? What do you think about all this?"

"Yeah, I'm Rose, this is Clarence. Viv is pretty intense, but there's no denying that weird stuff has been happening." She shrugs, "I don't know what it could be though."

"So all of this just started recently?" Gabe asks.

"Once we started dress rehearsals, yeah."

"And does it only happen onstage?"

Clarence nods, "It seems so. Only when we're in costume and performing."

"Any signs of sabotage: cut ropes, broken mechanisms, stuff like that?" Delilah asks.

"You'd have to ask the stage hands but I don't think so. I never heard about any actual damage." Rose checks to see if anyone is listening and leans in, her face etched with concern. "Look, I don’t need to tell you this but; potentially, everyone on stage is in danger. Whatever this is, it isn't targeting Vivian specifically." She waves her hand, as she continues, "The thing is, we can kind of look out for ourselves and adjust if we get some warning."

Clarence points a thumb at the closed door, "But, because Viv's a fey, she has a harder time adapting. She'll hit her marks and take her cues even if the theater's on fire. Its like something inside her takes over. I guess what we're trying to say is… Like, we all appreciate what you're doing, especially Vivian."

"Even if she's not the best at showing it." Rose admits. "But yeah, we all feel a lot better with you guys watching out."

>>893990
have you guys ever preformed a different show here maybe the ghost is haunting this performance rather then the venue?

>>893990
It's possible that the performance itself carries some kind of curse.
Before the play begins, we should check with the stagehands and get a feel for the mechanical side of things.

>>893990
>But, because Viv's a fey, she has a harder time adapting. She'll hit her marks and take her cues even if the theater's on fire. Its like something inside her takes over.
You know what? If somebody knows the script, then they would be able to know where everyone is supposed to be on stage and would know when to make an “accident” happen in order to minimize the chances of missing the person they’re targeting with the “accident”.

I think we should ask for a copy of the script so that we can have the same advantage of knowing where on stage everyone will be so that Gabe can hopefully have a better chance of using his portals to stop whatever happens. Hopefully the play won’t be too long, Gabe doesn’t have an infinite amount of magic.

.....I’ve also been thinking that maybe all of this is happening because someone literally brought bad luck to the show.

Everyone knows that’s it’s bad luck to say, “Good luck!” right before a performance, so maybe someone said, “Good luck!” and now there’s a bunch of bad luck happening to the show? If that’s the case, then we’d better start countering it by telling all the performers, “Break a leg!”

>>894002
Well, we can't really diescard that, we are dealing with the supernatural here, so luck might have something to do with this.

>"Once we started dress rehearsals, yeah."
>"It seems so. Only when we're in costume and performing."
These look interesting to me, we should try and think about something that can be related to this.

...maybe one of the costumes is haunted? The spirit guides that came here before might have assumed the ghost was haunting the theater, not the props or costumes. Heck, that's what we thought at first. But if it's only when they're in costume then it's probably one of the costumes.

Toxoglossa 2018/07/23(Mon)19:51 No. 894151 ID: 7816e7
File 153240066962.png - (137.74KB , 700x544 , 6-25.png )

“Do you think the play itself might be haunted?” Gabe posits.

“Dude, I have no idea. I mean, does it even work like that? You’re the ghost expert right?” Clarence shoots back.

Gabe shrugs, “I-unno. Just thinking out loud.”

“Maybe the costumes? You did say it only happens when you’re in costume.” Delilah suggests.

“Here,” Gabe puts up a quick spirit ward “Walk through this. If anything’s haunting your costumes it should get pulled out... or it’ll rip the clothes off your body, I’m not sure which.”

The singers side eye each other a bit before Clarence steps forward. He passes through the red light with no observable change to his clothing. Rose follows shortly after with no effect. “Well, it was worth a shot.” She admits. “Thanks for trying.”

Delilah thinks for a minute. "If we get a script, we might be able to help protect you guys better. We'd know where everyone is supposed to be."

Rose nods, "We'll get you a script. Someone can deliver it to your box."

"One more thing, has this kind of thing affected other productions? Is it just this play?"

Rose scratches her head, careful not to dislodge any rhinestones. "Not sure. The stage crew might know better. Some of them have worked here for years."

>>894151
time to talk to them then

Let's make haste, the show will start very soon!

>>894151
Thank them for their time and tell them, “Break a leg!”

>>894151
Right. Let's check with the stage guys.

>>894152
Let's hurry to do that.

And ask Delilah to take care of the script. If she's a page ahead, you've got a better shot. She's your spotter.

Walk and talk. Any stage hand supervisor we can hit up on the way to the booth?

Let's talk to the crew quick before we have to get up to the box and play safety overwatch.

Toxoglossa 2018/07/24(Tue)17:43 No. 894316 ID: 7816e7
File 153247942343.png - (219.05KB , 700x700 , 6-26.png )

“We were planning on checking out the stage before things started. Let’s talk with the crew.” Delilah suggests.

The singers nod and guide the way through the tangle of scenery. As the arrive center stage, they’re instructed: “Try not to get in anyone’s way, I’ll see if I can flag down the supervisor.” Rose exits, stage left, her heels clacking against the floorboards.

Gabe and Delilah stand in the eye of the storm that is opera. Various stagehands scurry from place to place, making last minute checks before the curtain rises, hissing instructions to one another in the semi-darkness. Above them, a massive “H” shaped catwalk stretches over the stage, spider-webbed with cables and hung with colored magelamps. Bits of tape are strategically positioned on the floor in mysterious calligraphy. Canvas and wood trees, villas, ships, and caves have been artfully assembled and painted to represent the scenes within Claudio’s dreamscapes.
Behind the wall of red velvet, the gentle murmur of the audience mixes with the plinks and honks of the orchestra pit warming up.

>>894316
ask the tiny fox like person about ghosts.

Hmm. I wonder, did they notice the strange things happening at any particular point in the play? If they did, you could maybe quickly try re-enact it yourselves with a copy of the script, while the curtain's down.

>>894316
I’m looking at this picture and right between Gabe and Delilah, I can’t tell if that’s Deliliah’s tail or if that’s Gabe’s hand on Delilah’s ass. Can anyone else see that or am I imagining things?

>>894317
This.

>>894316
This place is a hotbed of potential mayhem. If things go South, they're going South fast.
The obvious course of action is to wait for Rose to retrieve the super. However, while we're waiting, we can poke around and see if we turn anything up.
We shouldn't bother the workers while they're busy, so let's investigate the stage itself. Make sure there's nothing screwy with it magically or otherwise.

You should ask Sam if she's seen anything weird around here.

>>894316
Apologize to D again. What a shame to be working on your date. Go on and ask if anyone has a moment to talk.

>>894377
Thank God, Sam's here. Looks like you can take it easy Gabe.

Anyway talk to the fennec about spookiness.

>>894324
It's her tail, since it's drawn with her color.

Toxoglossa 2018/07/25(Wed)19:00 No. 894455 ID: 7816e7
File 153257040512.png - (181.22KB , 700x700 , 6-27.png )

Gabe pokes around the stage, noticing seams in the floorboards indicating the presence of trapdoors. “Sorry we got roped into all this on our date, Delilah. I was hoping for more of a special night together.” He tests his weight on one cautiously and it holds.

She chuckles, “Don’t worry about it. I know how it is; if I see someone injured, its not like I can say ‘that’s not my problem’ and ignore it.” She peers up into the darkness of the rafters, seeing no one above the stage. “Besides, we have all night, don’t we?”

Gabe’s face spreads into a big goofy grin, but before he can reply, Rose approaches with someone in tow.

The bat looks at the pair of them from over her clipboard, “So what’s this all about?” She asks.

“Bailey, these guys were going to look into the ghost situation. They wanted to know if there’ve been any other productions that have been haunted like ours.”

Bailey’s teeth peek between her lips as she thinks, “No... not since I’ve been here. I think there might have been something about a ghost a long time ago, but that was way before my time. The only person around who might know something about that would be Cliff. He’s been here for decades; mostly just does odd jobs and sweeps up. Good luck getting an answer from him though: his hearing’s so bad he mostly ignores people.”

If you're reeeally careful, you could put a portal in his ear and scoop the earwax out.

Okay but seriously get the smelling salts, those help jog memory.

Any lead on an old ghost is a good lead. The older they are the stronger they are, after all, and this one is strong enough to stay undetected.

>>894455
ask if you can have some paper and a pen then

Ask if you can borrow her clipboard. You don't have a lot of time and writing back and forth would be quickest. This could be really important information.

>>894455
I still think we shouldn't cast aside the idea of a mundane cause for this caper. Could be some sort of copycat.
All the same, interviewing Cliff seems like a solid plan. Does anyone have a spare hearing aid or something?

>>894483
Only mundane thing I can think of is if the perp has an accomplice in the staff who's covering for them. Well, that, or the attacker has some form of invisibility.
Is invisibility a thing in this universe? There seem to be other forms of magic.

>>894455
Did she get you that copy of the script you asked for?

It's probably safe to assume that having Delilah heal the guy's ears wouldn't do anything. Pencil and paper, then? Big bold letters, yeah?

>>894497
I dunno... maybe it would work?

>>894459
Yeah let's go for a pen and paper. It might take time, but it will be efficient.

>>894497
Maybe not permanently, but she might be able to temporarily give him some level of proper hearing back. Long enough to ask him questions.

>>894455

My cartoon stereotype senses are tingling!!

Let's talk to the old guy. He knows something. I'm sure of it.

>>894594
That's not healing. At least it's not any sort of healing we've seen in this universe yet.

Toxoglossa 2018/07/28(Sat)13:25 No. 894673 ID: 7816e7
File 153280950457.png - (169.73KB , 700x700 , 6-28.png )

“Do you know where he is? We could try talking to him.” Delilah suggests.

Bailey shrugs, “I dunno, he’s around here somewhere. Sorry, we’re already behind schedule, I’m to busy making sure everyone important is in their places.”

As she speaks, movement from backstage causes heads to turn. Vivian sweeps into view, "Alright, are we doing this?" The kitsune stops center stage, her flame colored gown trailing behind her in a shimmering crimson wave.

"Vivian!" The bat squeaks, "Oh thank fates!"

Rose questions her, "Are you sure about this?"

Vivian nods, "Yeah… and, sorry." Rose puts a hand on her shoulder.

Bailey lets out a pent up sigh of relief. She turns back to Gabe and Delilah. "Look I don't really have time to find Cliff, but if I see him, I'll try and talk to him. We need to get started as soon as possible so you might want to get to your seats."

"One thing: we need a copy of the script!" Delilah insists before Bailey rushes off. The bat pulls some pages from her clipboard and hands them to the healer.

"I gotta go, but come find me during intermission!" She calls back before marching offstage, her voice dopplering as she recedes "Okay places everyone! Curtains up in five!"

Alright, team! Shake out those nerves and get that magic flowing! This could get crazy in a damn hurry, so be ready for anything! Take your seats and keep your eyes peeled for any shenanigans or foul play!

Bailey's a cutie.

>what do
Hurry up and get to your box! Portal if you gotta, and start looking things over from above.

>>894673
They’re gonna need all the good luck they can get, so tell the actors to, “Break a leg!”

>>894677
"Not Literally!"

>>894673
I got an idea: how about putting up wards around the stage? Can they be maintained for a long period of time, and not distract from the play?

Let's skedaddle! Hopefully the view is good.

Toxoglossa 2018/07/30(Mon)17:48 No. 895140 ID: 7816e7
File 153299813739.png - (99.62KB , 700x614 , 6-29.png )

"Okay, well, break a leg!" Gabe smiles. Vivian raises a perfect eyebrow and Gabe hesitates, "Is- is that not a thing? I heard that’s the thing you say, right?"

She sighs, “Yeah, yeah I get it. I just… always wondered about that phrase: mortal superstitions are… odd. Thanks though; we’re counting on you.”

Gabe and Delilah race off, finding their way back to the front of the opera house. Looking around, they see Aberdeen standing by a velvet-lined staircase. “This way!”

Toxoglossa 2018/07/30(Mon)17:49 No. 895141 ID: 7816e7
File 153299814153.png - (147.79KB , 700x442 , 6-30.png )

Following the impresario, they find themselves on the third floor. He takes them to a door positioned between a pair of golden columns and produces a small key with a brass tag: #312.

He ushers them inside, handing them the key and a pair of opera glasses. “Here, you might want these.” Slightly out of breath and points to the wall with a ribbit: a shiny silver handset sits in a cradle, “There’s a speaking tube here, if you need anything- “He waves his hands in tired surrender, “- its on the house, okay? Thanks again for all this.” Aberdeen pants for a moment, before setting his shoulders. “Alright, I’m off. Thanks again!” He disappears out the door and the pair are left to themselves in the lush, velvety confines of the private seats.

The box itself opens out onto a small balcony, containing four well-upholstered seats in a row, partially hidden by heavy wine-colored curtains. As they take their seats, Gabe and Delilah look out into the milling crowd beneath them. The great chandelier above them dims and the privileged muttering dies down as seats are taken.

“Do you think you could ward the stage?” Delilah asks as they settle in.

“I could, but everyone would notice and I don’t know if I could keep it up for the whole show.” Gabe explains. “Plus that wouldn’t stop physical objects from passing through.”

“Ahh. Just a thought.”

>>895141
use the speaking tube get some water... and a cucumber if they have it, good for the skin

>>895141
Alright, you know the plan. Use the copy of the script you got so that you can keep track of where everyone is supposed to be on the stage.

Then both you and Delilah use the opera glasses to look for any trouble that might interrupt the show. If there’s only one pair of opera glasses, then you might want to call for another pair, so that you’ll both have one.

Enjoy the show as much as you can, but don’t let it completely distract you from watching out for whatever the fuck is trying to interrupt the show!

It probably would have been better if you'd been closer to the stage so you could see a bit into the backstage edges... oh well. Are you ok to whip out the magic from this distance onto the stage at short notice? I'm afraid you're pretty much going to have to be on edge watching the whole time, you're not really going to be able to enjoy it the way you normally would.

There's a fairy's life at stake, you know!

>>895157
It's actually better if only one of them is looking through the glasses at once. That way one can see everything at once, and point out things for the other to focus on.

Oh right, and read the first few pages of the script to get an idea of where you should be focusing on. The person without the glasses can do that.

Do a portal check, make sure you can create portals to specific areas if needed. Those backstage curtains might get in the way, or someone might accidentally bring an anti-magic ward as a prop.

A pitcher of cucumber water will go a long away when you're straining in the later acts!

In addition to the other downsides of warding the stage, it might not agree with Vivian. Wards tend to make fae uncomfortable.

And you don't really know what's doing the haunting- that makes it hard to ward against that thing, specifically.

Toxoglossa 2018/08/07(Tue)18:12 No. 896348 ID: 7816e7
File 153369072158.png - (107.01KB , 700x700 , 6-31.png )

There’s a movement behind the curtains and a moment later a very tired looking Aberdeen slips between them. The tiny figure projects surprisingly well as he addresses the audience: “Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your patience. We’re sorry for the delay, but as you know we’ve spent many months on this and we are now proud to present to you: A Dream of Two Queens” Applause ushers the impresario offstage as the curtain rises.

Gabe hangs up the speaking tube, “Got us some refreshments. You like cucumber?”

Delilah smiles, “Ooh, thanks!” She flips open the script, scanning ahead as the stage lights go up.

Toxoglossa 2018/08/07(Tue)18:12 No. 896349 ID: 7816e7
File 153369073116.png - (236.27KB , 1000x615 , 6-32.png )

A Dream of Two Queens

ACT 1 scene 1

SETTING: A hill rising above a dark forest. At the top of the hill is a lone tree, gnarled and ragged. In the far distance, a pair of armies are marshaled into fighting lines, separated by a field. It is twilight on the eve of battle between the kingdom of DAGON, a vampire lord, and the EASTERN ALLIANCE of mortal nations. As the sun sets, campfires sparkle in the separate camps

AT RISE: We find CLAUDIO, a scout and soldier of the EASTERN ALLIANCE, exhausted and climbing to the top of the hill. He drops his pack at the foot of the tree. Pulling from it, a signal mirror, he shines the last of the fading sunlight towards the camp of the ALLIANCE. A moment later a light blinks back at him like a fallen star.

CLAUDIO
A duty fulfilled. A rest so hard earned. Oh blessed respite!
(CLAUDIO returns his mirror to the pack, pulling out a canteen and mug. He sits on the bundle and looks out across the field of battle.)
CLAUDIO
Are these the eyes of the fates? Casting down as the night draws its long fingers across the sky? Oh how many lights. Such brief candles which twist and flow and come together in firestorm. And from the ashes still, what sparks may burn?
(CLAUDIO begins to sing, he stands and turns to face the audience, arms spread to encompass both armies.)

Oooohhhh niiiiiiight
I see stars abooooove
And a shining galaxy reflected
In the hearts belowwwwww

on whispered wings
A voice doth speak
A fate to each and every eaaaaaar.

Young and old round
Campfire sit and ward
Away the embrace of the

NIIIIIIGHT

Its eyes do fall upon me
Cold talons take my hand
And guide me from face to faaaaaace

Comrades in arms who
The morrow make as
Twisted snakes of spite and waaaaar

And in the morning next
Who among them stands
And carries victory onnnnnnn?

Ohhhh NIIIIGHT

You draw me near
A lovers breath
upon my cheek

I hear you now
Speaking promises
Of dreams to come

Usher me
In
To
Night

(CLAUDIO’s head sinks slowly as he lays upon the hill, exhaustion taking over. He lays back against the tree and falls asleep.)

Toxoglossa 2018/08/07(Tue)18:12 No. 896350 ID: 7816e7
File 153369074196.png - (169.50KB , 700x700 , 6-33.png )

(Enter through the darkened trees, two figures: the Fae queens, MAGRA and MORRIGON. They silently climb the hill from opposite sides, meeting in the middle beneath the tree.)

MAGRA: My lady.

MORRION: My lady

(BOTH face each other and bow.)

MAGRA: Too long has it been since we last stood beneath this, the unclaimed oak.

MORRIGON: Indeed, what news then from the court of THE BLAZING VEIL?
(The pair stalk each other around the gnarled trunk. Maintaining a respectful distance, but clearly testing one another.)

MAGRA: It is on the wind and in the water. A sealing. A shift of balance.

MORRIGON: As I suspected. We have heard as much from the stones and the fire. The court of THE BROKEN WHEEL feels the strain of old alliances and the pull of the wild law. But what is it?

MAGRA: Change.

MORRIGON: Change?

(MAGRA spreads her arms, spinning to face the camped armies.)
MAGRA: Change! Writ large across the land. Upheaval! The will of fates!

MORRIGON: What are Fates to ones such as us? We are the law. WE are the will! A thousand years we have stood upon the land, our courts built from the very bones of the hills!

(MAGRA points to the distant forces)
MAGRA: And yet, they gather under banners of mortal houses to proclaim their cause.

MORRIGON: Their cause? They churn the earth in a dance of mayhem, and pity not those crushed underneath. Who among them will speak for the land and the law?

(MAGRA pauses, noticing the sleeping soldier. She kneels beside CLAUDIO)
MAGRA: Hold now sister, perhaps an answer lies before us.

MORRIGON: Such a young face, yet so troubled. Who is he?

MAGRA: To wait beneath the unclaimed oak, he must have been sent to speak to us.

MORRIGON: Maybe so, but he is silent now. And yet, in stillness he may speak true’er words.

Toxoglossa 2018/08/07(Tue)18:12 No. 896351 ID: 7816e7
File 153369074735.png - (235.75KB , 612x700 , 6-34.png )

(MORRIGON reaches down and places a palm against his forehead, closing her eyes. She suddenly pulls away with a start.)
MAGRA: What is it? What did you see?

(MORRIGON looks at the sleeping CLAUDIO with a deep fascination.)
MORRIGON: Passion. A passion I have not seen in mortal flesh in a thousand summers. It beats against his chest like a caged bird. A flame!

MAGRA: A flame?
(MORRIGON begins to pace, her eyes, fierce as she begins to sing)
MORRIGON:
A burning bright, spark alight
A twisting, wild, pyre threatens
To spill across the skyyyyy

And in these eyes, I see a phoenix
Flap its wings. Its talons spread
To take my heaaaaart

Blazing feathers! Drape across my
Shoulllders. Lift-ing me in to the sunnnnn!

It draws me in. He is a candle and
IIIIIIIII, a moth, spiraling closer still.

And though it may stike my sight
I cannot loook a-way from
This LIIIIIGGGHT

(As she sings, a fire traces a shape in the air above them: a phoenix, which flaps its wings and rains sparks down across the stage.)

>>896351
THAAAAAAT'S a potential hazard. Close watch on the fire bird.

Yeah; it's a big wooden thing hanging over someone's head. That's a real risk.

This is some serious Phantom of the Opera stuff. Watch for anything that could lead into a "thematic accident" gauge your range, and keep your finger on the trigger.

"My ears! Why did he have to scream 'night' at night?! It doesn't fit the context at all!"

Oh and put a portal halo above her and the phoenix prop, it should look good and give her relative peace of mind.

>>896382
Of course it's thematically approriate! It comes up multiple times in the song! It's a respite against the coming troubles. Obviously.

Okay don't portal too early, but get ready, Gabe. Get the distance and size worked out in advance.

>>896388
Oh yeah, and an exit point! We should have asked about an empty room we could put anything that fell that couldn't just be moved elsewhere on the stage. Maybe just as far off the side of the stage as you can, keeping an eye out for people coming in.

>>896389
we will have to ask about that during an intermission or something but for now we just teleport anything to the front lawn of the theater.

keep an eye on the birdie.

>>896392
Wouldn’t it be better to send the fire to a body of water?

>>896408
No, because we don't know where one is. Not to mention someone worked hard on that! We can't just ruin props without good reason.

>>896416
No, not the actual phoenix prop. Just the sparks of fire that are raining down off of it. That’s what I was talking about.

Toxoglossa 2018/08/08(Wed)18:18 No. 896463 ID: 7816e7
File 153377748702.png - (66.64KB , 285x700 , 6-35.png )

“Keep and eye on that bird Gabe...” Delilah warns.
The Sender watches through his opera glasses as the construct folds its wings and is lifted into the rafters.

As it rises there’s a clunk, and the head slides from its shoulders and starts to fall. Gabe snaps his fingers and a bright disk envelops it before it gets too far. The gate closes with a small thunderclap, but Vivian continues to sing unperturbed.

“Oh right, gates are noisy...” Gabe mutters. “I hope nobody minds." There’s slight bewilderment from the crowd followed by polite applause. It may not have made sense, but it was very operatic.

Toxoglossa 2018/08/08(Wed)18:18 No. 896464 ID: 7816e7
File 153377749270.png - (196.27KB , 700x766 , 6-36.png )

“Nice catch” Delilah smiles. Beneath them, Rose rallies from her initial shock and picks up her part of the song.

ROSE:
Would you sit upon a throne of ash?
And wear a blaaaaazing crown?
As the reach of fire spreads

Let it be my hearrrrrth
Hold it to my breast and let the
Warmth beat withinnnnnn

“By the way where’d you send that head?” Delilah asks.

Gabe clears his throat nervously. “Er, close by...”

Wait, there's an ocean nearby. Did you seriously dump a $20 burning wireframe into that expensive fountain instead? I mean, it's better for the environment but... people are going to retract their ecology grants if you show them that the spirits of nature don't give a @#$% about fine taste.

Get the next portal ready.

I wonder if Vivian is causing any of this subconsciously. Fey and flair for the dramatic.

Have Delilah flip ahead to try to see if there is anything that would be made more dramatic by practical effects before the intermission. Knowing what to look for ahead of time could be important. Especially if it maybe target the others on the stage.

>>896463
Well now we know it's not another Sender slicing things up. You'd hear their gates closing too. Did you see anything near the head when it fell off? ...I suppose it could have been sabotaged before the show though.

>>896464
Probably gonna want to inspect that during the next intermission to see how exactly it fell. Was it a clean cut, or ragged like it just coincidentally happened to be weakened?

Also don't let your guard down. Maybe even ask Delilah to try skipping ahead in the script to see what other props they'll be using.

Ambiguous. It could be some sort of curse in the sense of magical luck manipulation, but it could also have been sabotage?

Well, things falling is the main danger, but if there's someone actively doing this then seeing what just happened might have inspired them to change their tactics. On the other hand, you basically let everyone backstage know you were around and what you could do anyway, so that seems unlikely.

There's not much that can come in from offstage that could be dangerous... Are there any trapdoors in the floor of the stage? I second asking your date to check ahead in the script while you watch.

>>896464
Oh dang. Find out your drop points! The roof seems like a safe place for (non-burning) objects.

>>896482
Yeah there's been trouble in the past with trapdoors. Anything to do with them, including just standing where one is, is worth paying attention to.

Unfortunately I think the only thing to do is continue checking ahead and keeping an eye out.

Hehe, nice one. Let's keep looking. Did you guys manage to see what caused the falling of the bird?

Toxoglossa 2018/08/09(Thu)21:08 No. 896607 ID: 7816e7
File 153387409409.png - (272.64KB , 700x503 , 6-37.png )

“Did you see what happened, was it cut off?” Delilah asks.

Gabe shrugs, “I don’t know. That clunk sounded like something popped loose. Maybe it wasn’t properly secured?”

“But they’ve been double checking everything right? They wouldn’t overlook something like that would they?”

“We’ll ask during intermission, I guess. Anything else I should be looking out for?”

Delilah pages ahead a bit, “Nothing big like that, looks like there’e a scene transition and another song and then the two queens exit by trapdoor behind the tree.”

Onstage, Magra and Morrigon both declare their interest in the burning fire within the young man. They touch his forehead and the lighting shifts. Suddenly the hill they stand on is the round and wrinkled curve of Claudio’s brain. The backdrop darkens and long strands of fibrous cable flicker and glow. The young soldier stands dreamily and pulls himself to attention center stage.

The two fey circle him, looking for something.

MORRIGON: It was here! But...

MAGRA: Perhaps he sensed our presences.

MORRIGON: He hid it? How dare he! To keep such a treasure from a queen!

(MORRIGON begins to stalk away)
MAGRA: Where are you going?

MORRIGON: For a moment, I glimpsed true beauty before it fled between the trees like a startled doe. I will track it and I will make it mine.

(MORRIGON exits behind the unclaimed oak, which has taken on a decidedly dreamlike appearance inside CLAUDIO’s mind.)

MAGRA:
One so strong willed
And yet she will tear herself apart
Hunting for a flicker of glory

(MAGRA traces a finger underneath CLAUDIO's chin)
And you, my deaaar

Are you treasure
To be claaaaaimed?
Or will you claim us instead?

What shall we fiiiind
Within layered dreams
Behind closed eyyyyyes?

Dare we hunt between
Dark boughs of thought
And mists of memory?

In dreams may I fiiiind
A heart I to make mine
A staaaar of my oooooown
To hold close to meeeee

I must maaaaaake youuuuu mine.
(MAGRA smiles and disappears behind the unclaimed oak. Curtain falls. End of scene 1)

Set up another halo portal as the curtain falls! Keep it up long enough for her to get a helmet and some protective gear oh who am I kidding fey step.

>>896607
So far so good.

But right now the curtains are closed and you can’t see what’s going on.

Since I know nothing of opera, I’ve gotta ask, does the time between acts count as the intermission? Because that would mean that now is when we go check and see what happened with the pheonix prop.

But if there’s not enough time to do that, then let’s just sit and wait for the curtains to come back up and hope nothing happened while we couldn’t see anything.

>>896616
Depends on the length of the act, though that's common. The script would probably say, and if not Aberdeen will definitely call for intermission when it happens. The script says this is the end of Scene 1, so unless opera works differently than other theatre, it's probably not the end of the act.

Right now I'm concerned about that trapdoor. Gave can't see it from here so he can't help if it fails. Hopefully this Phantom of the Opera isn't too eager.

>>896622
>The script says this is the end of Scene 1, so unless opera works differently than other theatre, it's probably not the end of the act.
Damnit, I read that as “end of Act 1”, but it’s only the end of Scene 1! Sorry, my bad!

>>896607
Hey, can you make a portal that you can see out of? Maybe that will help you get a backstage view.

>>896607
call down and see about a room to throw stuff in when you portal

>>896640
Gabe would need to have been in that room or know exactly where it is for that to work.

But that’s a dangerous thing to do since Gabe wouldn’t be able to tell if someone is in the room when he sends stuff in, so he could unintentionally hurt someone.

Another reason that’s dangerous is because if there are anymore props that are on fire like the phoenix prop, that would end up starting a fire in that room.

These are some cool effects. I wonder how they're done? Is it just lighting, or is there magic involved? If they used these effects during practice... maybe the magic is messed up.

>>896466
One plus of dumping it the fountain rather than the ocean is it's probably easier to recover and repair.

>>896607
>looks like there’e a scene transition and another song and then the two queens exit by trapdoor behind the tree
If the scene transition means moving scenery / props / backdrops around, there's the possibility some part of that could be made to fall. The trapdoor could also be made to fail so you'd have to catch someone.

Toxoglossa 2018/08/12(Sun)10:57 No. 896890 ID: 7816e7
File 153409666485.png - (228.45KB , 700x700 , 6-38.png )

There’s a knock at the door and Delilah goes to answer it. She comes back carrying a pair of tall, icy glasses spiked with slices of cucumber. “Eh? Whatcha doing?”

Gabe holds his finger and thumb in a ring and looks through them. “Taking a peek. I don’t want to use too much mana though.” A glow fills the tiny space and he holds his hand steady as he peers through at various angles.

Beneath the tiny portal, various stagehands scuttle back and forth, moving scenery and changing props. Bailey strides purposely through them in a boiling fury. Its hard to hear from the distance but she points at the hanging phoenix frame, clearly demanding to know what happened to it.

Hey, a clue! Grab the little knob on the scaffolding. Also, instruct the stage hands to triple check the next wireframe prop.

What is that little thing on the platform?

There's some kind of wheel, pulley, or disk lying on the catwalk. Open a small portal close to it to get a good look and/or snag it?

>>896890
looks like someone unscrewed whatever thing was holding the head to the body at the top of the body there and left it on the scafflding alert the bat then tell her where the head is and ask for a empty room for future reference.

Drop a small portal in front of Bailey and tell her that there's a knob on the catwalk that looks kind of suspicious and out of place.

There's also a bit of rope lying coiled up without being connected to where it's tied, I think. If someone shortened the rope right down, then one of those knots could slip free at some point, perhaps. If she's going up to look at the thing on the walk then maybe she could give it a double-check on the way.

>>896907
>ask for a empty room for future reference.
That’s not going to work.

Gabe needs to know exactly where the room is or he needs to have been in the room.

Tossing things outside is working perfectly fine for now.

But if we need to catch a person, let’s try to set them down somewhere backstage.

I warned you all! Props take dozens of hours of effort plus all the pyrotechnic work and usually don't get the praise they deserve. Bailey may never forgive Gave.

Let's at least have him portal things five feet closer to the building, i.e. on the concrete pathway near the fountain but not in it.

>>896891
But yeah do this.

Tell the stagehands to investigate the upper catwalk, there's a bit missing and the ropework looks undone.

If they ask what happened to the head, ONE LINER IT TO THROW THEM INTO CONFUSION.

>>896931
it was ON FIRE

>>896978
So?! It wasn't going to burn the concrete or whatever the pathway was! And it wasn't actually on fire, it was raining sparks! I mean, sure, that could've set the head itself on fire if it was unlucky, but water damage is no joke.

>>896993
Fire damage is even less of a joke.

So maybe there is someone sabotaging the props?
Could it be a normal individual, or a magical entity. Any traces of magic?

>>896997
I'd like to believe they used a non-flammable paint on it. Then again I don't know their set-up. Maybe they didn't think they'd need to worry about that. Most importantly, this is all super unimportant and dumb to argue about after the fact so I'll stop. I just had to use what I've learned with this theatre degree

When it comes to the end, you'll want to be wary of those trapdoors. Someone could put something nasty under hers.

When it comes to the end, you'll want to be wary of those trapdoors. Someone could put something nasty under hers.

>>897002
i would genuinely like to know what you learn about pyrotechnics for stage plays
is having shit on fire hanging above the actors in an indoor stage even allowed

>>897115
Yes, sometimes! Is what I'd like to say. Not like this, really. It would have to be set up so there's no chance of failure, and if there was, injury to the actors are as minimal as possible. There are serious rules in place for this.

Basically, less pyrotechnics than shown here, more rigging, and every attempt to try any other solution to achieve the same effect (like just using electric lighting sfx). There was also no need to stand directly under it. There are artistic arguments for it, but none that would matter to the audience.

Toxoglossa 2018/08/14(Tue)18:46 No. 897190 ID: 7816e7
File 153429756722.png - (90.49KB , 700x638 , 6-39.png )

Gabe re-positions his portal and reaches through up to his elbow, he pulls out a ring shaped piece of metal with a thicker rod across the diameter.

“What is it?” Gabe fiddles with the device, finding that it twists with some resistance.

“It must have been holding the head on. You should let Bailey know.”

Toxoglossa 2018/08/14(Tue)18:46 No. 897191 ID: 7816e7
File 153429757308.png - (85.91KB , 472x700 , 6-40.png )

“Right.” Gabe does some mental map-making and opens a small portal near the wall: well above head height so that he doesn’t cut anyone.
“Pssst, hey! Bailey!”

The bat double-takes with a start and hustles over, “Litchfire, you guys nearly gave me a heart attack! What’s up?”

Gabe drops the metal gadget through the portal and Bailey catches it on a thumb hook. “Found this on the catwalk, looks like it popped loose.”

“A lynchpin?” The stagehand turns it over incredulously. “We don’t even use these things anymore! That head should have been bolted on!”

“Sabotage?” Comes the question.

“More like idiocy. When I find out who did this, they’ll lose their head.” Bailey’s ears twitch, “By the way, please tell me we’re getting that prop back. The fire effect on that thing wasn’t cheap.”

>>897191
Uhh, it might be a little damp, but that should be fixable. It should be in the fountain out front. Sorry. Had to make the call.

"So... it'd be bad if I dumped it into the ocean?"

Pause for her reaction, then grin.

"Glad I didn't do that then. It's 'just' in the fountain outside. You should probably send someone to get it before the show's over? Anyway, you said I should come find you during the intermission. Something you wanted to talk about?"

...they don't use those things anymore? Hmm. That's our first clue I think. Someone who's used to the old ways of doing things... maybe that old guy we didn't get a chance to talk to?

>>897191
It's intact, but wet. I put it down in the fountain to try and cushion the fall, and so it couldn't catch anything else on fire.

>>897191
>“By the way, please tell me we’re getting that prop back. The fire effect on that thing wasn’t cheap.”
“Uhhh, about that. I didn’t know where to put it, so I kinda put it in the fountain in front of the theater so that it wouldn’t set anything on fire.”

>>897202
.....I’m starting to think that if it was that guy, then it was an accident.

After all, everyone has told us that he’s really old and can’t hear very well, so maybe it was an accident and he doesn’t know he’s not supposed to use lynchpins because he didn’t hear anyone tell him that.

It's in a fountain. Intact, but without fire, sorry.

>>897191
Er. In the lobby fountain. Might want to fish that out before one of the guests notices..

Would it be rude to boop her snoot?

>>897242
There is no fountain in the lobby. There is a fountain outside in front of the building and that’s where the prop is.

>Would it be rude to boop her snoot?
Extremely rude! And very unprofessional, since we’re supposed to be on guard duty.

>>897207
Say the things.

But if it was that guy, it wasn't a mistake. It's a hard thing to confuse a bolt with a lynchpin.

Anyway I knew it was going to be Old Man Jenkins, even if OMJ isn't actually an old man in this case. I don't personally have a suspect yet.

Toxoglossa 2018/08/18(Sat)16:30 No. 897796 ID: 7816e7
File 153463500273.png - (151.66KB , 672x700 , 6-41.png )

“Uh- I dropped it in the fountain out front. Is that okay?”

“Yeesh...” Bailey winces, “Yeah, I guess it’ll be okay. Thanks for not launching into the ocean.”

“If that pin thing is old, do you think that old guy you were talking about did it?” Gabe asks.

“Man, I hope not. I know he’s a grump and nearly deaf, but I’d hate to think he was going senile or something. If its him doing all this... well, I don’t want to assume anything just yet. I gotta go. Thanks for the save!” Bailey waves and goes to ensure that everyone is in place for the next scene.

Gabe and Delilah settle back in their seats as the curtain rises.

Toxoglossa 2018/08/18(Sat)16:30 No. 897797 ID: 7816e7
File 153463502358.png - (75.22KB , 423x700 , 6-42.png )

"I wonder how Gabe's doing?"

Hanging out?

He's probably enjoying himself, much like you are right now.

He’s investigating some phantom of the opera-esque shenanigans and finding all sorts of excuses to open a bunch of portals.
Just kidding, he’s probably just watching the play like anyone else.

>>897797
probably getting and receiving a handy

>>897797
>>897797
Thinking about your man while balls deep in your kelpie girl? Have you no class?

>>897797
¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Why do you ask? Are your ghost senses tingling or something? Because if you think there’s trouble, then I’m sure you and Casey can handle it without Gabe.

What ever you guys do, it always ends up with some paranatural shenanigans. So yeah, nothing out of the ordinary.
What about you two?

He's probably just stretching! Naked.

The way things have been going for you guys, he probably ran into someone who unleashed a genie who's corrupting wishes to cause trouble, or a doofus vampire who's causing shenanigans by their comical roundabout ways of avoiding standing in front of mirrors, or some loa who's been convincing a medium to let them posses them so they can try woo some prospective lover but actually the medium is in love with them and it's a big triangle thing, or something.

How are you doing? Any special reason for being naked, or is it one of the usual reasons?

Toxoglossa 2018/08/19(Sun)13:20 No. 898007 ID: 7816e7
File 153471005041.png - (142.85KB , 612x700 , 6-43.png )

"What's the matter? Worried about him?" Kol feels a soft touch between his shoulder blades. The hum of a binding spell keeps him locked in place as fingers trace down his back. He shivers.

"Not really, I just hope their having a good time, is all." He smiles.

"I know." comes the whisper in his ear, "They're missing out on all the fun. Speaking of which, what shall I do with you?"

>>898007
Ear rubs

Oh. Not what i was expecting really.
Nibble ears, that is always a great place to start.

You've got some nice big windows in the back, there. Makes me think of maybe trying some sort of publicity play? If Kol has Gabe enjoying a performance on his mind, maybe he wants to put one on himself.

If those windows face out to the sea or somewhere that it's very unlikely there'd be any onlookers who'd glance your direction, you could hang Kol in front of a window and have fun making him put on a display for an almost-certainly-imaginary audience. If it looks out somewhere busier, maybe you could arrange things so that Kol is mostly visible and would seem to be just resting and looking out the window, but certain key parts of his body are out of sight and free to be enjoyed while he tries not to react too much. Or you could just call Nixxy in and have her play the part of an audience.

Why isn't your ass red it's just poking out there
C'mon paint it red

>>898007
>Speaking of which, what shall I do with you?
¯\_(ツ)_/¯

.....hey, aren’t you supposed to think of something to do to me? Why do I have to give you ideas?

Second moving in front of the window.

Warm up/tease him. Kol's not even erect yet.

>Speaking of which, what shall I do with you?
Bury something under his tail, of course.

Toxoglossa 2018/08/19(Sun)19:34 No. 898094 ID: 7816e7
File 153473247095.png - (186.53KB , 700x700 , 6-44.png )

"Hmm, how about a change of scenery?" Casey waves her finger.

"Eh?" Kol feels the spell tugging him and he follows dutifully. He stumbles in front of the window and tucks his knees in slightly. "Oh… what're we doing over here?"

"I think you know…" There's a click as the lights go out behind him, "Nice view tonight?"

"Heh, er- yeah."

"Not half as good as where I'm standing…" Casey reaches in for a kiss. Kol closes his eyes as a hand slips between his thighs.

Oh my, quite receptive. Better give him a few test pumps before moving on.

Acquire dildo while he's distracted, then gently insert it into his backdoor.

Is he ticklish?

Toxoglossa 2018/08/20(Mon)18:55 No. 898254 ID: 7816e7
File 153481652537.png - (94.80KB , 700x350 , 6-45.png )

Casey breaks away and her fingertips trace their way down Kol’s sides as she balances on her knees.

“Uh, Case... You know someone might see us?” Kol blushes a pale pink in the moonlight.

“Shhhh.” She interrupts, “You think I haven’t noticed: the way you like to put on a show?” With a finger she flicks at his erection, sending it wobbling. “Like when I found plowing Gabe back in the ruins?”

“What? I mean... “ he mutters, but trails off.

She chuckles, her hand loosely gripped around him and pumping softly. She can feel his pulse racing as his excitement edges higher.

Toxoglossa 2018/08/20(Mon)18:55 No. 898255 ID: 7816e7
File 153481653019.png - (117.35KB , 450x700 , 6-46.png )

“Its okay, Kol, it was very cute. But now I think its my turn to show off...”

By the fates, give them a show.

>>898255
Blow dat boy.

You could go a step further. Pause while blowing kol, rotate him 90 degrees and then resume.

>>898255
You could turn around and lean against the window then grind against him.

Take your time. Slowly work your way around to being more visually explicit to your imaginary onlookers. Since you are aiming for this to be more of an exhibitionist fantasy with just enough touch of reality to really sell it on a visceral level, maybe have a sneaky peek out the window while you're navigating around to give him some attention from the sides, just to make sure there really isn't anyone out there. You could also tell him to close his eyes and trust only to you telling him whether or not there is anyone. If you don't mind a little deception, you could pretend and tell him there's someone walking by outside, not looking in the right direction... yet.

Well, hey, TECHNICALLY nobody can see anything with you blocking his body with your face like that.

>>898276
No, no. You're already using spirit tentacles for bondage, so own that. Set some aura thing up between the floor and your shins to allow a smooth, continuous rotation, give 'em a 360 view.

Toxoglossa 2018/08/21(Tue)20:05 No. 898499 ID: 7816e7
File 153490713021.png - (83.08KB , 380x700 , 6-47.png )

For a while the only sounds in the dark are that of soft sucks and licks as Kol moans. “Ah, Case, I-“ he warns.

“Not yet you don’t.” She commands, standing up, “I want to play with you a bit more...” Casey leans herself against the window, her tail waving languidly as she looks back with a teasing grin. “There we go. Now let’s see, what can I see? Oh, there’s Miki’s place just up the hill, I wonder what she’d say if she could see us now? The lights are still on, maybe I should give them a call?”
Her hips sway back and fourth, just out of reach as Kol stretches forward hopefully at empty air.

His cock drips with anticipation as he murmurs, “Aw come on Case...”

“What was that?” She wonders aloud, “Do you want a hand?”

“Y-yeah.”

“Yesss-?”

“P-please, Case!” Kol finishes.

Toxoglossa 2018/08/21(Tue)20:05 No. 898500 ID: 7816e7
File 153490713498.png - (211.15KB , 700x700 , 6-48.png )

“Well, since you asked nicely...” Casey twirls a finger and Kol feels something insinuate itself through the dark. An aura tentacle slips unseen under his tail and Kol gasps as he feels it push its way into him. He goes breathless as he’s stretched around the coil of mana, feeling it work its way deep within and wait.

Casey looks back at her lover as his insides adjust to the intrusion, “You ready?”

Kol manages a nod before the spell surges forward. The thrust lifts him off his feet, spearing him into Casey’s waiting pussy.

You're the captain now.

Move the binding on Kol's arm forward a few inches so he can focus on his assigned role while you concentrate on yours.

Toxoglossa 2018/08/22(Wed)18:21 No. 898669 ID: 7816e7
File 153498727532.png - (170.68KB , 439x700 , 6-49.png )

Casey shifts the binding spell and Kol is pulled closer, sandwiching her against the window. She closes her eyes and spreads her legs, “Thaaats it, give it to me.” She sighs contentedly and rolls her hips; savoring the steady push and pull within her, feeling every inch growing slicker and hotter.

"Ah, C-Casey, ah Fates…" Kol's face flushes red as he tries to hang on: the steady rhythm pounding from behind and the warm embrace around him inching him closer to the edge.

Casey smiles as she feels him starting to flare inside her; a steady pulse demanding release. "That close already, Kol?"

Now, now.
We can't have that just yet.
Pull him back. Switch places with him.

>>898720
Seconding this. Can't have one of them getting off without the other.

Any way of discreetly calling Miki over to watch?

edge that lord
edge that lord

Toxoglossa 2018/08/23(Thu)20:38 No. 898820 ID: 7816e7
File 153508188319.png - (248.23KB , 700x678 , 6-50.png )

"A- AH! I can't!" Kol stammers. He struggles to keep humping as a wave of pleasure suddenly surges through him. The erratic, desperate motions cause him to slip loose painting long, pearlescent streaks across the windowpane.

Casey looks down at her semen-coated thighs, nearly invisible in the moonlight and smiles warmly. She releases her magic and Kol plants his hands on the glass, his knees buckling and short of breath. "So- sorry, Case. I couldn't- ah- so good- ah."

Toxoglossa 2018/08/23(Thu)20:38 No. 898821 ID: 7816e7
File 153508188918.png - (157.59KB , 700x556 , 6-51.png )

She cups his chin in her palm and brings him cheek to cheek with her, "Aw, that’s okay, honey. I could tell you were pretty turned on. You okay?" The Medium nods and gets a kiss on the cheek.

"Take a minute and just relax, okay?" Casey's fingers idly trace the slickness between her legs, keeping herself warmed up, "We'll take it slow for the next round. We've got all night…"

Ah, that's cute. Give that boy a smooch.

Well, you don't have all night to clean that before it drips down onto the carpet/floorboards. But apart from that, yes. While Kol recovers, perhaps have a nice chat with him about comfort limits and future experiments regarding this taste for showing off he seems to have?

Hm, poor Kol. I guess aura tentacles just feel that good? Maybe you should try after a brief clean up.

If you're scrapped for ideas, why not add a little ice? You could put it between you two and give each other a hug.

Toxoglossa 2018/08/29(Wed)17:56 No. 899519 ID: 7816e7
File 153559060758.png - (125.62KB , 596x700 , 6-52.png )

(Stage lights down, curtain closes)