OF: NaNoWiMo Novel: Reasons PG-13 AA/A/Hu

[Midnight]

Ahh. I thought you would eventually give the introspection needed to round out the main characters--and you did so beautifully. The background for Ryan and James was opened, and it seems that their personae are equally as diverse as that of the twins.

Excellent job. ^_^
_________________
Today, these three players are after Big Bucks! But they'll have to avoid the Whammy, as they play the most exciting game of their lives! From Television City in Hollywood! It's time to 'Press Your Luck!'--Rod Roddy

The Kingdom of Loathing: An Adventurer is You! // I ♣ Seals

Avatar by Spork. I very much appreciate it! <3

[Neko]

Goal: 30,000 words
Achieved Goal: 30,102 words

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Three more days passed without incident. From town to town the small party traveled and slowly made their way to the border. Finally the night came where they hopefully crossover the border by the next morning.

“Thank god,” Dan breathed happily when James announced the news.

James smiled, “Well, we’ve made it somehow.”

Den nodded, “Now we can tell the council about the unknown when we get back to the capital city.”

“How far away is your capital?” Ryan asked.

“Not far,” Den and Dan replied.

“Also, we can just teleport there once we cross the border since there is no anti magic technology here,” Dan pointed out.

“You can teleport humans?” Ryan asked.

“We’re going to have to expand the ratio for the area that we teleport, but Dan can take care of all the technical stuff anyways,” Den replied.

“Thank you,” Dan replied dryly.

Den grinned at Dan, “I’m better at power control then you anyways,” he said cheekily.

Dan sighed, “All right,” he replied.

“Is that true?” Archie asked.

“Yeah,” they answered.

“Magic control?” Ryan asked.

“Well, we have the power inside of us, right?” Den asked.

Ryan, James and Archie nodded blankly.

“Think of it this way, the power inside of us has the potential to be shaped
into anything we want. However you need certain parameters under which this can be done, for example, creating fire in a rainstorm is stupid. When we said that we needed to expand the area that we teleport that means Dan will literally expand the focus area that I use the magic on. I have better control over the out put of power so it’s ideal for me to do that part so we don’t get too tired,” Den explained.

“Oh,” Archie said simply. “So, that’s why you were the one who was using the shield.”

Den nodded, “Exactly. Dan was holding up the parameter for the shield, E.G. he was making sure it didn’t get too big or too small or too, well anything really.”

“Good teamwork,” Archie complimented.

“Thank you,” they said cheerfully.

“So, how much farther?” Ryan asked.

James looked at the map, “Not much, but we have to be careful here. I’ve heard rumors that there are sentries placed on the borders for both sides.”

Den nodded, “Yeah, there are on our side, but they don’t do anything unless you’re stupid enough to attack first.”

“We’ll make sure not to do that then,” Ryan said dryly.

“You’re more cynical then I gave you credit for,” Den laughed.

“Thank you,” Ryan said slowly, “I think.”

Den shrugged, “Take is as you will, it really was more of a statement.”
“Then maybe you should make it more clear as to what you are trying to say,” Ryan shot back.

The two boys held each other’s gaze for a while then smiled at one another and broke eye contact.

“Interesting way to talk,” Archie said to James in a low utterance.

James nodded his head amusedly, “Master Ryan seems to like the twins a great deal. He’s never had friends his own age before, I think. Or at least he hasn’t since he came under my charge.”

Archie chuckled, “Well, he and Den seem to have quite a bit in common, wouldn’t you say?”

“If being sarcastic, frank and very blunt when you have a conversation with someone is a common point then yes, I do see the similarities,” James replied with a small dry undertone in his statement.

Archie shrugged, “Hey they’re not all that old in age, but they seem to have a bit more maturity then other kids they’re age. I guess it comes with looking at the world through an adult’s eyes.”

“Dan isn’t like that though,” James replied.

Archie shrugged, “Some folks deal with it in different ways.”

In front of them Den attacked Dan from behind and hung on tightly while Dan tried to get his twin to let go in vain.

“Did I say mature?” Archie asked.

“Yes, you did,” James replied while taking a look at the map.

“Huh, maturity, funny thing isn’t it?” Archie asked while he watched Dan somehow get himself out of Den’s grip and begin to tickle him into an
apology.

James looked up, “That it is,” he replied.

“What are you two talking about?” Ryan asked the two men suddenly.
Archie jumped as he looked down at the kid who wasn’t there a second ago. “Hello,” he said slowly.

“Nothing, Master Ryan,” James replied kindly. “We were just commenting on the behavior of the twins,” he said while nodding in their direction where Den was apologizing to Dan.

“Oh,” Ryan said simply and walked over to where the twins were and telling them something that made them laugh that Archie and James couldn’t hear.

“Think we’re being made fun of?” Archie asked with a grin.

James shrugged, “I don’t really mind otherwise,” he replied.

“Good man,” Archie said simply and the walk continued in peace.


Finally, after about six more hours they made it to the border. It was a tense few minutes and Archie had the distinct feeling that they were being watched the feeling was soon gone and they passed into the land of the Denali undisturbed.

“Well?” Archie asked.

“Hold on,” Den replied while taking off his hat and shaking his head with a happy sigh.

“We need to find a sentry first,” Dan replied.

“Oh,” Archie said. “Why?”

“If they detect alien magic then they’re entitled to warn the capital city just in case. So we’re not attacked when we get there we’re gonna tell them we’re here,” Den explained.

Dan nodded and took off his own hat. “Yeup,” he said cheerfully while running his fingers through his hair.

Ryan gave them a small smile, “Excited?” he asked.

“Oh yes,” they replied.

“We haven’t been home in ages,” Den said. “And although I can deal without some of what’s waiting for us,” he said dryly, “I can’t wait to sleep in my own bed for the first time in months.”

Dan sighed happily, “Yeah, and eat Mary’s sea food,” he said happily.
Den laughed, “Stop thinking about food already, we need to get home first.”

The easiness of the twins put everyone else at ease as well. It almost seemed that because they were happy and excited that they could be so as well. Maybe it had something to do with their magic, Archie thought, but more likely then not it was just nice to know that for a few days at least they could relax without being suspicious of everyone around them and worried that at any second they might get caught.

“How do you signal a sentry again?” Den asked thoughtfully.

Dan frowned and held up his hand letting a small amount of energy shoot out and flash once in the trees. Almost immediately a tall woman appeared in front of them. “Ha, I knew it,” Dan said happily.

“Well, well, well, the kids finally return,” the woman said with apparent relief in her voice. Stroking long auburn hair out of her face to get a better view. “Humans?” she asked.

Den and Dan nodded, “They helped us get back,” they said together.
Her face relaxed into a smile and she held out a hand to Archie, “Thank you,” she said softly, stepping forward. “You have no idea how worried we were.”

“We?” Archie replied.

“Everyone,” she said simply. “But no one could talk them out of it, so instead of pushing them to running away we let them go on their own so we could know at the very least in which direction they went and so on. We were about to send out a search party as well.”

“Mary, what are you saying about us?” Den asked hotly.

Mary’s ear swiveled to take in Den’s question then she turned her head, letting go of Archie’s hand and smiling. “Nothing you two wouldn’t know already. Are you going to teleport back?” she asked.

“We were planning to,” Dan replied.

Mary nodded, “All right, I’m about to go off duty anyways. Care to stick around until my relief comes?”

“Only if you promise to make us seafood Alfredo when we get back,” Dan teased.

Mary laughed and grabbed Dan in a chokehold, rubbing his ears while he tried to get her to let go. Den laughed loudly as she said, “All right, but you have to promise to not avoid the court for the next week.”

“Yes ma’am,” Den said with his tongue sticking out.

“You two…” she sighed exasperatedly and let Dan go.

“Court?” Ryan asked Den softly.

Den nodded, “Yeah, you’ll see once we get there,” he said while rolling his eyes.

“Why the secrecy?” Archie asked as Mary let Dan go.

“You’ll see,” the twins replied.

Mary shook her head, “Well, I’m glad you two are safe. We were getting worried you know.”

Den shrugged, “We can take care of ourselves.”

“That’s hardly the point,” she replied.

Archie smiled at the tall woman and finally noted her characteristics. She was, there was no other terms for it, cat like. She was tall and moved with very graceful very firm movements that showed obvious signs of combat training. She had dark auburn hair that fell almost to her waist and piercing blue eyes. She wrapped her tail around her waist willingly and held it there with a belt loop in her pants, probably Archie guessed, to keep it out of her way in case of a fight. She was very sure of herself and gave off the impression that she wasn’t someone to be trifled with. Archie felt an immediate like for the woman and felt a small attraction to her as well.

She eyed his him and smiled, “You’re a soldier, aren’t you?”

Archie nodded, “Smart woman,” he grinned.

“I make it my business to know. So, what rank?” she asked.

“I’m a run away general,” Archie replied proudly.

The woman whistled, “I’d like to hear that story.”

“Maybe over a drink?” Archie asked.

The woman smiled faintly, “If you’re buying,” she shot back.

“Deal,” Archie said.

Den and Dan simultaneously cleared their throats and Archie and Mary looked at them. “The relief is here,” they said while the man behind them waved.

“The kids are finally back,” he noted.

Mary nodded, “Yeah, I’m gonna help transport these people into town. 3:3
ratio is easier to deal with.”

The man nodded, “All right,” he said and vanished.

“What was that about?” James muttered to Archie.

Archie shrugged, “A drink,” he replied.

James shook his head and looked at the woman who was taking with Den
and Dan about the spell they were going to use. “A drink, huh?”

Archie nodded happily, “Yes, a drink.”

Mary straightened up, “Well, I think it might just be easier if we do it individually,” she said to Den and Dan.

Den and Dan looked at one another. “Okay,” they said.

Mary nodded and walked over to Archie. “I’m sorry if this makes you dizzy but in the end it’ll conserve more energy.”

Archie shook his head, “I don’t mind,” he replied.

Den walked over to Ryan and Dan walked over to James. “So, you kids
promise to appear where you should.”

“Yes!” they both yelled back exasperatedly.

Mary sighed, “I hope so,” she muttered and grabbed Archie’s hand. Archie blinked then the world around him melted. He felt like everything around him was becoming liquid and that he was in the middle of a sea of something very unpleasant. He was sinking very rapidly through something not very solid but solid enough to warrant uncomfort. But before he could get too uncomfortable it ended and everything became solid again. He blinked and looked around to see Den appear with a rather queasy looking Ryan and Dan appear with a similar looking James. He must have had the same expression on his face because Mary looked at them and started to laugh. “You get used to it after the third time.”
Ryan held his stomach, “No thanks,” he replied.

James looked around, “Where are we?” he asked.

Archie looked around as well to see that they were in a large hallway and in front of them were very large oaken doors. “Gentlemen, welcome to Denali Palace,” Mary said while waving her hand at the massive structure in front of them.
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[Midnight]

Hmm. And finally the ragtag posse reaches the border and crosses into unknown territory--at least to the reader, anyway.

I must admit, you have definitely kept the flow of the story going, and going at a good clip as well. Now that the protagonists are past the other side of the border, I am intrigued to see how you will handle the characterization of the Denali society and how it shall compare to that we have seen in the past arc.

As for Mary's case, it's still far too early to pass judgement on her. She seems to be someone who will add a lot to the story, and you KNOW I will get you if you keep her in and don't develop her personality further.

Anyway...this, as always, leaves me thirsting for more. Great job.
_________________
Today, these three players are after Big Bucks! But they'll have to avoid the Whammy, as they play the most exciting game of their lives! From Television City in Hollywood! It's time to 'Press Your Luck!'--Rod Roddy

The Kingdom of Loathing: An Adventurer is You! // I ♣ Seals

Avatar by Spork. I very much appreciate it! <3

[Neko]

Goal: 32,000 words
Acheived Goal: 32,029 words

Warning, beware the totally confusing government I just made up XD Neko does pull these things out from thin air from time to time.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Archie, Ryan and James gaped openly at the palace. It was beautiful; Ryan decided that there was no other word for it. It was made out of a glassy looking opaque stone he could not name and carved in many different ways and styles. The glyphs around the castle became almost part of stone as physically as the minerals themselves. Dan followed his gaze and smiled, “The etches are spells,” he said quietly. “They protect this place as well as the surrounding area. Also there are some trivial spells for good luck and prosperous harvests and so on that we use for the sake of being able to just have the pretty looking words in the stone.”

“Vanity?” Archie murmured.

“Kinda,” Dan admitted. “It is our main building for politics as well as the house of the royal family, so it’s kind of important that it’s protected the way it is.”

“Ah yes, the imperial family,” Archie said with a small grin. “Can’t wait to meet those people.”

“Right,” Den and Dan muttered uncomfortably.

Mary grinned wickedly, “Want me to open the doors or shall I?” she asked them.

Den and Dan exchanged glances and Den stepped forward. He touched the door and muttered something that no one else could hear very well. There was a small flash of light and the engravings on the door glowed briefly silver before the sounds of tumblers clicking reached their ears. The doors swung inwards revealing a very large, open room that could have fit Ryan’s house inside it.

Archie whistled, “Nice,” he said. “Neat security system you have there too,” he said with a grin.

“We try,” Mary said and walked inside. Everyone else trotted to keep up with her and behind them the doors shut with a soft thud and another brief flash of light as the spells were put back into place.

There was a soft murmur around them and finally a tall man in a uniform similar to that of Mary’s strode out. His steps here quick and sure as he padded across the room and once again Archie assessed that the man was some kind of military person. “So, the kids finally return, are you done chasing illusions?” the man snapped coldly.

“No,” Den and Dan shot back together.

“I take it you won’t finalize my plans for invasion then,” the man growled.

“No,” they growled back.

The man eyed Ryan, James and Archie with cold yellow eyes before turning around on his heel and walking out of the room.

“You know he was worried about you,” Mary said softly.

Den shrugged, “I don’t care. Like we’re going to authorize an invasion of another’s land when we ourselves weren’t attacked in that way. Not until there is no other option,” he said softly.

Dan nodded, “I agree.”

“Why do you have that authority?” Ryan asked softly.

Mary chuckled, “So you didn’t tell them,” she noted.

“Tell us what?” Archie asked.

Mary put her hands on Dan and Den’s heads. “Well, you see, this is what remains of the current royal family of the Denali,” she said. “Our King and Queen were kidnapped by your people and these two followed.”

“What?” Archie asked. “You kids run this place?”

“Kinda,” Den said while turning a bright scarlet. Dan just opted to stay
silent for the time being.

“No way,” Ryan gasped. “How could you get out of the country if you run it?”

“Land,” Den and Dan replied stiffly.

“Land,” Ryan corrected himself.

Mary smiled, “The Council ran things while they were away giving them two months leave. The two months were almost up too,” she added.

“That’s why you came back,” Archie said softly.

Den and Dan nodded, “It’s not like we would have had a choice anyways though,” Den pointed out.

“Well, the Council will be happy to know that you’ve returned,” Mary said brightly.

“Yeah, we need to tell them something too,” Dan said in a worried voice.

“What happened?” Mary asked softly.

“Set up a Council hearing tomorrow and we’ll explain in public,” Dan replied. “I don’t want this to get around through rumor.”

Mary nodded, “I take it that’s an order?” she asked with a small smile.

Dan sighed, “I guess,” he said offhandedly.

Mary rubbed Dan’s ears affectionately. “I know this is hard on you kids,
and I’m glad you had a break but it’s good that you’re back.”

Dan smiled, “Thanks,” he said.

Mary nodded, “Any time,” she replied and straightened up. “I’ll set up the meeting, you kids get everything else ready for our guests and
tomorrow.”

“This land is ruled by two kids?” Archie asked as Mary went through a large door at the west end of the hall.”

Den bristled, “I resent that!”

“Sorry, but still, isn’t there anyone else?” Archie replied while holding his hands up in a pacifist gesture.

Den and Dan shook their heads, “No,” they said flatly.

“Didn’t you say the council could choose another family?” Ryan pointed out.

“They can,” Dan replied. “But that’s for a permanent change, and our parents are good leaders. Also, the reason we have a ‘royal’ family is because of a specific bloodline. It’s not a matter of being better then anyone else, it’s the kind of spells we have the ability to cast.”

“Spells?” James asked.

The twins nodded. “Yeah,” Den said. “For example, there is a room in this castle that holds the history of all the people of this land, that room can only be opened with a spell cast by someone with a certain linage. And not ours either, we can’t open the room. Those of the historian linage can though. I’ve seen it once, it’s a pretty cool room.”

“Wait, your society is based on bloodline?” Archie asked.

Den and Dan nodded. “Every family has something that the other families can or can not do. Therefore no power can be abused. Those who live by the sea uphold the protection spells that keep the sea from destroying the towns. One family that lives in the city controls the protection spells around the bank, keeping our money safe. The system is far from perfect but that’s how evolution happened to go.”

“Can’t you choose what you want to do?” Ryan asked softly.

Den and Dan shook their heads, “No,” they answered.

“Simply put, your fate is determined by what family you’re born too,” Dan replied. “Although there is no ‘class’ system, meaning how much money is made and who makes more, there is a job system. We are part of the royal family no matter what we do and that’s how it goes,” Dan shrugged. “Like Den said, it’s far from perfect but it was what happened and in the end that’s what needed to happen to ensure some kind of balance among us as a people. Every family controls an important spell that either protects or sustains something needed for this society to continue. It’s a fragile system, but it is a way of life and it works. Because the family lines are so large, the Council of Elders can remove those they think become too power hungry or are otherwise unfit of that kind of responsibility. In turn each family has one representative on the Council and everyone votes for who gets on. Meaning other families vote for other families so in the end we hope no favorites make it. Also, the Council can vote off its own members if corruption takes place,” Dan explained.

“Wow, that’s complicated,” Archie said while pulling out a cigarette.

“It can be at times,” Den laughed.

“What about marriage, do you marry within your family?” Ryan asked.

Den shook his head, “No,” he said. “That… causes problems.”

“Obviously,” Ryan said dryly.

Den laughed, “No, people marry whom they want or whom their parents want depending on the family and who their parents are and so on. It depends, I mean some marry for love some don’t. Same with humans, right?”

“Of course,” Archie said while taking a slow breath. “So, no class systems, but aren’t there others held in esteem more then others?”

“Of course,” the twins answered.

“It’s inevitable, right?” Dan pointed out. “If everyone was the same there would be no drive for production. It’s the only way society can function.”

“You kids are very smart,” Archie muttered.

“We have to be,” Den pointed out. “When our parents were kidnapped the Council immediately appointed us to be the heads of the palace until they were returned. Even after they granted us a two-month leave we were still the heads. We’ve been taught all our lives how to rule and run this country and keeping the bloodline system in check and which family doesn’t like who and so on. It’s a pain but someone needs to do that.”

“Necessity,” Archie sighed. “What a fickle idea.”

Den and Dan shrugged, “It’s a different way of life, but it’s our way of life,” Dan pointed out. “And at least we’re honest.”

James smiled, “This is true.”

“We’re not perfect,” Den said. “There is corruption and our system is
very… delicate, but the thing is we don’t pretend to be perfect. There is room for improvement and no one has absolute power in any given situation. Even us.”

“That’s a good way to deal with things for sure. I think I prefer the honesty bit,” he said with a lopsided grin.

“Not much choice there either,” Dan replied with a laugh. “If someone ever found out another was lying then they would quarrel and the whole system would break down.”

“Scary,” Ryan said.

“Indeed,” Den replied. “But like I said, it works. Now come on, let’s get you guys some rooms and find Mary, she promised us seafood Alfredo.”

“Is it good?” Archie asked.

“The best,” they replied happily.


After they were all assigned rooms Den and Dan led the way through the vast palace in search of Mary. However she happened to find them first.
“Hey,” she said as she walked in on them from a separate hallway.

“How do you not get lost?” Ryan asked her.

“Years of practice,” she said with a grin. “So,” she said, turning her gaze to Den and Dan.

“Well?” Dan asked.

“Tomorrow at noon, I hope you kids are ready,” she said.

“We are,” they replied.

“Good,” Mary nodded. “And I think I promised some kids some food,” she said with a grin.

“Yes!” Den cheered.

“This must be some good food,” Archie said with a grin.

Mary nodded, “Well, I don’t like to brag, but I make some pretty good food.”

“She does too,” Dan said happily.

“What family are you from?” James asked.

Mary raised an eyebrow, “You told them about our system?” she asked.

Den and Dan nodded, “Only way to explain being ‘royalty’,” Den replied.

“Ah,” she said. “Well, to answer your question, I’m from the military
family and I happen to be a Keeper.”

“Keeper?” Ryan asked.

“One of seven military members, all of different rank who ‘keep’ a special key that unlocks something I’m not permitted to say,” Mary said with a
wink.

“Interesting,” Archie said slowly. “This is quite fascinating.”

“Thank you, we try,” Mary said cheekily. “Now, who wants dinner?”

Ryan’s stomach growled loudly causing him to blush. Den laughed and put an arm around Ryan’s shoulders. “I think his stomach might be.”

Ryan’s lips quirked in a smile, “I guess,” he said softly.

Mary nodded, “Good, follow me,” she said and motioned towards the hallway she had just come from.
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Avatar, credit Yakitate@devart

[Midnight]

...Whoa. You weren't kidding. I honestly didn't expect to see the twins as leaders of their dominion. o_o

As far as I can tell, this system seems similar to that of a constitutional monarchy--there is a royal lineage, but there are definite marks of the ideal democracy around--with the modified system of checks and balances and the like. You certainly bring up some interesting ideas of how a hypothetical government can run, and how a corresponding society yields to it. The interaction between the castes seems to make it a workable society, but I do happen to have one gripe wth it. You keep repeating that the system "isn't perfect." No such system is. It's a given.

Other than that, again another one of those thought-provoking chapters. Great read.
_________________
Today, these three players are after Big Bucks! But they'll have to avoid the Whammy, as they play the most exciting game of their lives! From Television City in Hollywood! It's time to 'Press Your Luck!'--Rod Roddy

The Kingdom of Loathing: An Adventurer is You! // I ♣ Seals

Avatar by Spork. I very much appreciate it! <3

[Neko]

Goal: 34,000 words
Achieved Goal: 34,061 words

I'm sick, I slept the whole day then woke up to do this. Because I am going to make 50k words damnit >O

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

They followed her down several hallways that all looked the same until she stopped in front of a door that looked exactly the same as the doors to the left or right of it. “Here’s my room,” she said.

“How can you tell?” Archie asked.

“I have a special spell inside that gives my room a different feeling from the others, but only I can feel it,” Mary said. “It’s a trick my dad taught me.”

“Cool,” Ryan said while looking at the door. To him it looked like every other door they had seen in the palace, and that was a lot of doors.

Mary nodded and held out a glowing hand, “It is,” she agreed. She placed her hand flat on the door just as Dan had when they entered the palace. The engravings glowed a reddish color before tumblers could be heard falling into place. She pulled her hand back and the door swung inwards.

“Interesting way to lock doors,” James noted.

Mary shrugged, “It works for us,” she said with a grin and motioned them inside.

They followed her into the room and looked around, “Nice,” Ryan said while looking at the spacious apartment.

There were two rooms, one that acted as a bedroom and living room and the other acted as a kitchen and dining room. Both rooms were large and simply decorated with red furniture and dark wine and midnight blue colored carpets. Several weapons hung on the walls to signify her status as a soldier and someone to simply not be messed with. It reminded Archie of his own room, even if his tended to be a bit messier. “I agree, it’s nice,” he said.

“Thank you, I try,” Mary smiled as she strode over into the kitchen. She pulled out several pots and decided which one she wanted to use. She selected a larger one and set it on the stove as she shut the cupboard the other pots had come out of. “You can sit down,” she told them, motioning to large pillows and chairs that were on the floor.”

Den grinned and flopped onto an oversized pillow. “So, did you miss us?” he asked in a silly voice.

“Of course!” Mary said while filling the pot with water and setting it on the stove to boil. She walked back into the other room and seated herself in a large red recliner. “The council was worried sick about you.”

Dan grinned and flopped next to Den as Ryan, James and Archie looked for other places to sit down. “Were they?” he asked.

“Hey, you two have the potential to be great rulers and they know that even if they are a bunch of stuffy old people,” she pointed out.
Den shrugged, “Well, it’s not like they could have kept us here you know,” he sniffed.

“Why do you think they let you go?” Mary asked him dryly. “You two
would have gotten out somehow, so we figured we might as well have some idea as to where you were going.”

Den grinned, “So, did anyone make any attempts to become the head family again?” he asked devilishly.

“I don’t have to answer that,” Mary told him point blank.
Den shrugged, “I was just asking,” he said airily.

“Head family?” Ryan asked.

“The family on the throne,” Dan said. “We’re part of the royal family, but there’s more then just us. We have aunts and uncles and cousins and other family members.”

“Oh,” Ryan said simply.

“So, a battle for power?” Archie asked.

Mary sighed, “In some ways, yes,” she replied.

“Who?” Den pressed.

“I’m not telling,” Mary snapped. “It’s not like you have to know anyways, no one supported them and the thing ended before it even began.”

“You’re protective,” Archie muttered into Mary’s ear.

Her ear flicked back before she turned to Archie and muttered, “They don’t need to know which family members are trying to take over their throne,” she muttered back.

“Their throne?” Archie asked her in a surprised voice.

“You know what I mean,” she replied with a sigh.

“What are you two whispering about over there?” Den asked.

“We’re talking about you,” Mary said honestly and got up. “And no I’m not telling you anything else,” she said as Den opened his mouth.

Ryan smiled, “She headed off your comment before you could even start,” he said to Den.

“She’s always done that,” Dan said with a laugh. “Mary is the only one who can keep Den quiet aside from mom.”

“I resent that,” Den muttered.

Dan laughed, “Oh well,” he replied and leaned over to rub Den’s ears and ruffle his hair. “You know it’s true.”

Mary poured the noodles into the boiling water and started to cut up the fish to fry with the shrimp and muscles. “Yeah, and it’s even worse when we’re in public and he won’t shut up,” she added.

“I love you too, Mary!” Den yelled in reply.

Mary laughed, “Yeah, I know you do. But you could make my life easier you know.”

Den sniffed and pushed Dan away so he could lean on the pillow. “I don’t like it when those dumb people start asking stupid questions,” he muttered.

Dan shrugged, “You don’t have to say that to their face though. There are more polite ways to deal with it.”

“He said that to someone?” Ryan asked incredulously.

“He tried to,” Dan muttered.

Archie burst out laughing, “Well, at least you’re willing to be honest,” he pointed out.

“There are better ways to tell someone off then to tell them they’re stupid, no matter how honest the statement is,” Mary said from the kitchen.

“That’s true,” Ryan told Den.

Den linked his hands behind his head and shrugged, “Well, whatever,” he said simply.

Dan shook his head, “And this is why the council finds you annoying,” he told Den.

“I point you to my last statement,” Den said dryly.

James smiled, “Do you not care for your position, Den?” he asked.

Den blinked and looked up at the ceiling, “No,” he said slowly. “I like helping to make the decisions with dad and mom because they know what they’re doing. We don’t, and because people know that they try and take advantage of us. That’s why I’m not to fond of it right now.”

Dan nodded, “I agree with that.”

Mary came in from the kitchen balancing several plates on her arms. She handed one to Den and one to Dan then pointed at the kitchen, “There’s some if you’re hungry. And back to what you were saying,” she said while sitting in her own chair and picking up the fork. “That’s why I’m here. Don’t worry, the Council won’t let you make bad decisions, and all you have to do now is make sure things run on the same track they’re going on.”

“I don’t understand why we need a head family,” Den said while slurping up a noodle. “The council took care of everything fine for two months.”

“You wouldn’t understand until you’re older,” Mary said simply.

“Humor me,” Den snapped back.

Ryan, James and Archie decided that then would be a good time to get some food.

Mary sighed and set her fork onto the plate with a small clink. “Den, Dan, we need the head family not only for your magic but because we need someone to double check the Council. It’s checks and balances, we cannot let someone have more power then the other, so we let a head family and an elected body share the same power. That’s why.”

“Oh,” Den said simply then hastily took another bite.

“I know it’s hard kids, but you have to realize that your parents are the best leaders we’ve had in a long time and we can’t afford to let them go because of something like this. So we will wait and we will try and get them back, and in the meantime I’m more then happy to help you two continue playing your part.”

Dan smiled, “Thanks Mary.”

Mary nodded and took another bite happily.

After they all finished eating, Den and Dan began to tell Mary of their adventures while Ryan, James and Archie added in bits and pieces they thought should be mentioned. They did not however, mention the Unknown because the humans figured earlier from a well placed glare by Den that it wasn’t to be said at that time. Eventually the talking ceased for a while and Den, Dan and Ryan all fell asleep on the cushions that were spread out over the floor.

After they had been asleep for about ten minutes Archie sighed and
leaned back in his chair. “I must say, it’s a relief to finally be here.”

Mary smiled softly, “I’m glad they made friends,” she said. “It’s been hard these past few months.”

“I can imagine,” James said softly. “By any chance, did anyone try and take over as head family?”

Mary nodded, “Yeah, I mentioned it earlier. But it fell through early on because their cousin, the one who tried to take over has had a leadership position before and he did not handle it well. It was an incident but a minor one. Everyone wants Neil and Janet back, their parents. This society knows when it has good leaders and those two were among the best, Den and Dan are also very good for their age even if they themselves don’t realize it. It’s just, they’re hesitant to accept help because they’re afraid that someone is trying to take advantage of them, and most of the time they’re not. It’s a very early teen way of thinking so I can’t necessarily tell them to stop thinking like that, it’s a realization they will have to come to on their own.” Mary sighed and linked her hands together, putting her chin in them and looking out into the empty air. “They miss their mom and dad, and I can’t do anything about it. I want to help, but I can’t.”

James smiled softly, “I know what that feels like. Being on the outside and looking in at someone else’s child. It hurts to know that you can’t tell them what they should think or how to avoid something. In the end they will have to fall on their own to gain experience for themselves. It’s being there to pick them up and help them back to where they were is what is appreciated in the end.”

Mary nodded, “Yeah,” she said with a smile.

Archie grinned, “James, you are the most motherly man I’ve ever met.”

James laughed outright for the first time since Archie had met him. Archie watched amusedly as the tall man’s shoulder’s shook with laughter.

“Thank you,” he said finally after calming down.

Mary stood up and un-tucked her tail from the belt loop it was resting in and waved it as if stretching. “Well, we should go to sleep as well. I can lead you back to your rooms, I would suggest letting the kids sleep here though.”

James nodded, “I agree, it’s rare when Master Ryan falls asleep so easily anyways.”

“They must be tired from the long trip,” Mary said with a soft smile. “I know what that’s like.”

Archie nodded, “It is something of a relief to reach a final destination even if it isn’t your home.”

“Indeed,” Mary agreed and walked over to her door. “So, should I let you two attempt to find your rooms on your own?”

“No thank you,” James said softly.

Mary gave him a wicked grin, “You wouldn’t be the first to get lost,” she said with a smirk. “And I applaud you for being truthful enough to admit you need help.”

“I’m not stupid enough to get lost for five hours,” Archie said with a grin to match Mary’s.

“Clever man,” she replied.

“Thank you, miss,” Archie said cheekily and walked out of the room.
James watched in wonder as Mary laughed softly and followed Archie out into the hall. “Interesting,” he said to himself and followed them out into the hall where they were already lost in their own conversation.
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[Neko]

Goal: 36,000 words
Achieved Goal: 36,035 words

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The next morning Ryan slowly woke up as the sun came in through the window and hit his eyes. He winced and turned away from the intrusive beam only to find that he could still see the reddish splotches through his eyes. With a groan he sat up and rubbed the sleep from his eyes while looking around the room.

Next to him Dan stretched out and sighed happily, “It feels good to be home,” he cheered.

Ryan looked down at him with a small smile, “You’re cheerful this morning,” he noted.

Dan sat up and grinned. “I’ve missed this place,” he said. “You can’t tell but just feeling the magic from the other people puts me more at ease.”

Ryan put his chin in his hands and looked up at the glassy window at the top of the wall that had let in the light. “Yeah, I can see that.”

Dan nodded and turned around to poke his brother. “Wake up,” he said cheerfully.

“Go away,” Den groaned.

“You need to get up,” Dan told him happily. “Or we won’t be able to eat before we meet with the elders.”

Den sighed and sat up. He put up a hand to keep the light from stinging his eyes and looked at his friends. “Morning,” he muttered.

Dan grinned and tackled him, pushing him back into the pillows.

“Morning,” Dan said happily.

“You’re way to hyper for your own good,” Den muttered darkly.

“Sorry,” Dan said with an apologetic grin. “I’m just happy that we’re finally home.”

Den groaned and pushed Dan off of him. “I know,” he replied with a half smile. “I’ll be more hyper in a few minutes,” he said with a yawn.

“Still not a morning person?” Ryan teased. “Even after the way we traveled.”

“I fail to see how anyone can be hyper the second they wake up,” Den said dryly as he stood up. He stretched his hands over his head and his tail stuck straight out as he rose onto his tiptoes in a full body stretch.

“It’s something you’re born with,” Ryan replied. “Or acquire through unwanted circumstances.”

“Like a hyperactive brother waking you up every morning?” Den replied amiably.

“Somewhat,” Ryan replied as he, too, stood up and stretched.

Dan sniffed the air and grinned, “Smell that?” he asked.

Den sniffed the air in lieu of his brother and nodded happily, “Yeah.”

Ryan smelled the air but couldn’t detect any scent. “Smell what?” he
asked.

“Mary’s cooking,” Den and Dan said together.

Ryan blinked and looked slightly confused.

Den walked over to Ryan and grabbed his wrist, “Ready to go to breakfast?” he asked.

“You’re going to do that teleport thing, aren’t you?” Ryan asked unhappily.

“Yeah, but it won’t be as bad this time, it’s only a few rooms away,” Den replied.

“Then why teleport?” Ryan asked.

“You trust us to not get lost here?” Dan replied.

Ryan opened his mouth then remembered how everything looked exactly the same as they came to the room they were in. “No,” he said slowly.

“Exactly,” Den said and gave Ryan a grin, “Hold on.”

Ryan shut his eyes and waited for the slimy sensation that came with the teleport last time. Only this time it never came. All he felt was a cold shiver and a little discomfort before Den let go of his write. He opened his eyes and blinked a few times. Ryan figured he must have looked confused because Den laughed loudly and said, “See, not as bad.”

Ryan swallowed, “Yeah,” he replied. “But still, it feels weird.”

Den shrugged and watched as Dan appeared next to him. “You left too quickly,” Dan muttered.

“Sorry,” Den replied. “I’m hungry.”

Ryan sniffed the air and this time he could certainly smell something. Mostly syrup and pancakes but also an undercurrent of eggs and bacon reached his nose. Almost immediately his mouth began to water and his stomach gave out a small growl. Den grinned, “Hungry?” he asked.

Ryan nodded, “A little,” he admitted.

Dan nodded and walked over to a table and sat in a comfy looking chair. “Well that’s good because I think we’re about to eat.”

Ryan took the chair next to Dan and Den sat on the other side. “I wonder
where Archie and James are?” Den mused.

“They got lost?” Dan replied.

Just then Mary came out of the small kitchen that was part of this particular suite holding a tray of pancakes. “Oh I hope not,” she muttered.

“Didn’t you guide them here?” Den asked her.

“They were still asleep when I went to their rooms so I left them a map,” she explained as she set the tray down. “Although I should have probably
just woken them up, huh?”

“Probably,” Dan agreed while taking a pancake.

Ryan shook his head, “No, they’ll be here soon. As long as the map was halfway decent James will get them here.”

“Is that so?” Mary asked. “Well then, I’ll just wait.”

“You sure?” Dan asked Ryan softly.

Ryan nodded, “I’m positive. Don’t worry, they’ll be here any minute,” he
replied while taking a pancake.

And true to Ryan’s prediction, two minutes later James and Archie knocked on the door of the room. “We’re here!” Archie yelled.

Den whistled and got up from his chair to open the door. “Nice call,” he told Ryan as he passed him.

Ryan nodded and took another bite of syrup drenched pancake, “Thank you,” he said.

“Finally!” Archie sighed as the door swung open, “I’m starving.”

“Morning, Den,” James said quietly.

“Get lost?” Den replied.

“Archie did, I had to go find him,” James replied.

Den giggled softly so Archie couldn’t hear. “Nice job,” he muttered.

“Thanks,” James said as he looked for a place to sit down.

Archie sighed and plopped down into a chair with a fake weariness. “Well,
after that rousing adventure, can I have some food?”

Mary came in with a wicked grin on her lips. “Enjoy the scenery?” she
asked while handing Archie a plate with three pancakes on it.

“Ha ha, your wit stuns me, miss,” Archie said sarcastically while taking the
plate.

“How lost did he get?” Mary asked James quietly as she herself sat down
at the table.

“It took me fifteen minutes to find him, ten minutes to get on the same floor and three minutes to convince him he was lost in the first place,” James replied quietly.

“Ouch,” Mary muttered and took a bite of pancake.

“Yeah, he’ll get over it,” James said with a smile.

Ryan grinned, “At least he didn’t get into any trouble.”

“That remains to be seen,” Archie muttered. “I could very well do something stupid in my bad mood.”

“At least you admit that,” Mary said while pointing her fork at Archie.
“That’s very big of you. However no one will mess anything up if I’m around, and I doubt you can defeat me in hand to hand combat.”

Archie smiled sourly, “You want to bet?”

Den smirked, “I’d give you ten seconds before she dumps you on your butt.”

Archie stood up, “Fine then, show me.”

Mary sighed and muttered something that to James sounded like, “Men,” and walked over to Archie. She pulled him over to an open area of the room and backed away, settling into a low combat stance. “Come on,” she snapped.

Archie charged forward and thrust his left hand at her chest to try and knock her off her center. Mary moved her left foot under her body and slid her right foot around in an arc on the floor in front of her. The fluid movement happened so quickly Archie couldn’t even react before his legs were swept out from under him and he was on his butt looking up at Mary. “I know your pride is hurt and that you are frustrated but please, tone down the testosterone.”

Archie grumbled and got to his feet. “One more,” he said and took in a deep breath.

Mary shook her head, “Not if you’re serious.”

“Why not?” Archie asked, surprised.

“Because, if I were to fight you seriously I’d probably work up a sweat and I’d prefer to go to the Council smelling like pancakes, not sweat.”

Archie grinned, “Rematch?”

“Possibly,” Mary replied and walked back over to the table. “As long as you’re in a good mood. It seems you are rather weak while in a bad mood.”

Archie snorted and took his own seat, “Yeah well, I don’t take kindly to
being rescued in a castle.”

“You’re not the first,” Dan pointed out.

“Doesn’t help,” Archie muttered as he took another bite.

Mary shrugged, “Well, get off your high horse man. You can’t be acting like that when we see the Council.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Archie said with a grin.


Two hours later they all traveled to a small building built inside the palace. It looked very old and had so much magic dripping from within that even the humans noticed the power. “What is that?” Ryan asked.

“That is the home of the Council of Elders,” Den replied. “No one can go in without their permission, it’s not possible.”

Mary strode up to the door of the building and announced in a clear voice, “I am Mary of the Lenal Family. I have brought Dennis and Daniel of the Arenal family, I request your presence and audience this morning.”

The door’s inscriptions glowed a bright white briefly then it opened slowly.

“Ready?” Dan asked.

“No,” Den replied. “The Council creeps me out.”

Dan patted Den on the head then strode forward. Den sighed and followed his twin into the dark building.

“Please go ahead,” Mary said to Ryan, James and Archie.

Ryan shivered slightly before following his friends and the two adults were not far behind. Finally Mary took up the tail of the small procession into the building before the door shut tightly.

Den and Dan came out into a hall that looked bigger then it really was. It was dimly lit and housed one long table with twelve very old, very formidable men and women sitting around it. No one was at the head of the table nor at the back, there was no assigned leader as they all had agreed to share the power that was given to them when they became an Elder. A woman on the far left stood up and nodded at the twins. She was tall with long white hair and very large white ears. She was wearing an embroidered robe that signified her place as an Elder and the other men and women around her wore a similar garment to hers. She smiled at them and said gently, “So you have returned, I see.”

Den and Dan both nodded and bowed slightly to show their respect. “We have,” they replied.

“Did you discover anything of your parent’s whereabouts?” the woman asked them.

Dan shook his head, “We only found out that they were being held in the main city.”

The woman nodded and took her seat. A man stood up and stroked his thick salt and pepper beard before saying, “What did you wish to tell us?”
Den opened his mouth then closed it apprehensively. He knew what had to be said, but telling everyone such a thing would surely cause much uneasiness in their kingdom. Dan patted his brother on the arm and Den looked up. “We fought an Unknown while on our journey.”

There was a small murmur that rippled through the table and the air in the room became tense. “This is troubling young ones,” the man said. “Are you sure?”

Dan nodded, “Yes, we’re positive. We came back to warn our brethren and everyone else here that the Unknown are still alive and are currently in the human kingdom.”
_________________
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[Midnight]

Nice.

As for the chapters, I can't help but feel sorry for Archie's bruised ego, but something tells me that he implicitly enjoys it. For some reason, this previous chapter reminds me of The Matrix, especially with the scene with the Council. I'm sure that if this association is irrational, the next chapter should blow that uncertainty away.

As always, a scintillating read.
_________________
Today, these three players are after Big Bucks! But they'll have to avoid the Whammy, as they play the most exciting game of their lives! From Television City in Hollywood! It's time to 'Press Your Luck!'--Rod Roddy

The Kingdom of Loathing: An Adventurer is You! // I ♣ Seals

Avatar by Spork. I very much appreciate it! <3

[Neko]

I've never seen the matrix so I wouldn't know XD

My hatred for Kianuu Reeves is quite deep.
_________________
Roses are #FF0000, violets are #0000FF. All my base are belong to you.

Avatar, credit Yakitate@devart

[Neko]

Goal: 38,000 words
Acheived Goal: 38,046 words

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Another woman stood up and rubbed her ears nervously. “You are aware of the consequences of releasing this information into the public, right?” she asked.

The twins exchanged glances then nodded at the woman. “We’re aware,” Dan replied evenly. “However we cannot keep this information to ourselves under good conscience.”

The woman gave them a small smile, “You sound like your father,” she said softly.

Dan looked at the floor and mumbled, “Thank you.”

A man stood up, inviting the woman to take her seat. He cleared his throat and said. “Is there anything else you wish to tell us?” he asked.

Den shook his head, “That is the information we would like to be seen made public for now. We didn’t experience anything else significant on our travels.”

The man nodded, “Very well, however this means we will have to arrange for a free day at the palace you know.”

Archie, James, Ryan and Mary were in the background while the twins were being interrogated so they got a back view of what was going on. Ryan fancied he saw Den’s tail twitch irritably before calmly answering, “All right.”

“Free day?” Ryan asked.

“Shhh,” Mary said softly, putting a finger to her lips to emphasize her point. “We’ll explain outside.”

The man seemed to pick up on the hint regardless of how calm Den acted.
“These past few months have been tiring for you,” the man said.
“However, keeping your head on your shoulders and dealing with this as calmly as you can,” he said stiffly while holding Den’s eye contact, “Is the best we can do right now. For the time being we will start coming up with ideas of how to rescue your parents while you two take care of what you just started.”

“Yes sir,” Den and Dan answered together.

“Also, we would like you two to meet with Admiral Lenal and plan out where exactly how the army should go to the capital city if an invasion is needed.”

Den and Dan looked at the man uneasily and hesitated before he cleared his throat loudly prompting them to say, “Yes sir,” and bowing before the turned around to leave.


“Invasion?” Den snapped. “What invasion? Our soldiers wouldn’t get fifty miles into the human’s land!”

“Calm down,” Dan said to Den soothingly as they walked through the halls. “He said if, not when.”

“Old man Lenal is the one that wants this,” Den hissed. “He’s been vying for all out war even when mom and dad were still here.”

“What is a free day?” Ryan asked them.

Mary sighed, “A free day is usually a party or ball of some kind where
anyone, and I do mean anyone, is free to come and ask questions. Because Dennis and Daniel put out such information a free day is needed by our communications so that there isn’t a panic. So, reporters, journalists and heads of communication organizations will be there as well as your average Joe who just wants to hear things for himself. Does what make sense?”

Archie nodded, “So, simply put, a way to try and keep the press from lying?”

“Keyword is try,” Den muttered. “They’ll twist everything we say to meet their reader’s views.”

Mary nodded, “Yeup. However they have to be clever about it because no one can add or make up facts that weren’t said. In other words they can’t lie, however lying and stretching the truth are two different things.”

“Fun,” Ryan said dryly.

“Oh, very,” Den muttered.

Dan shrugged, “I don’t mind. We knew what we were getting into the second we walked into the Council’s chambers.”

Den sighed, “Yeah, I know.”

“What about the meeting with the Admiral?” Archie asked. “What are you going to tell him?”

“Everything he asks of us,” Den replied.

Dan nodded, “The Lenal family specializes in knowing when people lie. It’s an instinct they’re born with. And the Admiral is very good at it.”

Archie side glanced Mary, “You too?”

Mary grinned and nodded, “I’m not as good as the head of my family, but I’m certainly good enough. Otherwise I wouldn’t be a keeper.”

Archie nodded, “I should have figured that,” he said with a laugh.

“When do you have to speak to him?” Ryan asked Den and Dan.

“Probably before the free day,” Den said while looking up at the ceiling.

“Tomorrow morning would be my guess,” Dan followed up to finish his brother’s comment.

“Should we be present for the free day?” James asked.

Den and Dan shrugged, “Only if you want,” Dan said. “We won’t make you do anything you don’t want to.”

Ryan grinned and patted the twins on their shoulders, “I’ll go. I’m curious anyways.”

Den and Dan both gave him the same relaxed smile in response.

“Thanks,” they said.

Ryan nodded, “It’s fine.”

James watched this with a grin of his own. ‘You’ve grown, Master Ryan,’ he thought to himself.

Archie and Mary continued to talk behind the other four as they walked to nowhere in particular. “So, if I’m not mistaken you owe me a date,”
Archie noted after a few minutes.

Mary blinked, “Oh, the drink?” she asked.

“Drink, date, they’ve come to mean the same thing to me,” Archie said with a grin.

Mary laughed, “All right then. I know a good bar that stay’s open all night over in the lower corner of town. Can you handle the darker areas?”

“I grew up in the dark area of my town,” Archie said with a smirk. “It’ll feel like home.”

“Oh, a manly one?” she teased.

Archie frowned, “That’s not very fair,” he replied.

Mary held up her hands, “I was joking. Would you like to go tonight?” she asked.

Archie nodded and pulled out a cigarette, “Sure. Tonight sounds good,” he replied while searching for a lighter.

Mary snapped her fingers and a small flame appeared just over her fingertip. Archie leaned forward and lit his cigarette. “Thank you,” he said.

“I’ll be in my rooms ready to go at eight,” Mary said with a small smile.
“I’ll trust you to not get lost.”

Archie’s teeth clamped over the end of the cigarette but he kept an easy smile on his face, “I never make the same mistake twice,” he answered.


Later that evening after she had made sure that Den and Dan were in their own rooms and after getting their promises to be in bed by ten so they weren’t tired for the next day, she returned to her own room and pulled out a set of street clothes. She looked at them and sighed, it had been so long since she was out of uniform it almost seemed like it was going to be an awkward experience.

After deciding on a simple red, sleeveless top and jean kapris as her outfit she began to raid her closet for accessories. After she had rejected the third pair of shoes she put her hand on her head and laughed at herself. “All this over a man?” she asked herself. “Since when was I fussy about what I wore?”

Looking around she finally found a pair of lace up sandals that added a few inches to her height. As a last touch she put two small ruby earrings through the tips of her ears. Satisfied with her reflection in a mirror by her bedside she nodded and walked over to the door. Almost immediately there was a knock and she opened it to reveal a somewhat groomed Archie on the other side. ‘At least I wasn’t the only one fussy over appearance,’ she noted with a smile.

Archie’s mouth fell open a bit as he took Mary’s new appearance in. “You look…” he swallowed. “Nice.”

“Thanks,” Mary replied and stepped out of her room, letting the carved door close with a thud.

“So, how far away is it?” Archie asked her.

“Far?” Mary asked. “You want to walk?”

Archie opened his mouth, then closed it. “I forgot,” he said with a small grin. “Teleporting then?”

“Only if you want,” Mary replied. “I’ve heard from other sources that teleporting can be a less then comfortable experience for humans.”
Archie shrugged carelessly, “I’ve been through worse. I don’t mind.”
Mary nodded, and took Archie’s hand in her own. “Very well then, hold on tight.”

Archie nodded and did as he was told. For a split second he was sinking through cold, slimy gelatin again before being able to take in a deep breath of musty air. “Smells like home,” he noted as he breathed in the familiar scents of whiskey and tobacco.

Mary nodded, “Yeah, I grew up around here before I was admitted into the military academy. I can only offer two words of advice, one, no politics, two, no war. Everything else is fine, but those two topics are taboo.”

Archie saluted her with two fingers jokingly, “Yes ma’am.”

Mary grinned and pulled Archie into a well lit bar at the end of the street. Archie suspected there was some kind of spell cast on the place because as soon as they walked inside, Archie suspected he went momentarily deaf. Between the loud conversations, the rock band on stage and the other paraphernalia of sounds around him it was a wonder the building didn’t shake its self to dust. When he voiced this thought to Mary she nodded and yelled, “Yeah! It’s to keep the neighbors from complaining. The spell costs a lot to maintain though.”

“Maintain?” Archie yelled back.

Mary shrugged, “Well sure? Magic sure isn’t self-sustaining you know! The energy has to come from somewhere!”

Archie thought this over as they sat down at the bar. “A magic generator?” he asked her over the loud din.

Mary burst out laughing. “No, there are people whose jobs are to go around town and recast spells on the buildings or people that pay for them. The palace is one such place. Those lock spells cost a lot, but it makes keeping things to yourself easier and unwanted people out.”

“So, kinda like magic maintenance people?” Archie asked.

“Kina!” Mary yelled back. Then she turned in her swivel barstool and knocked on the wood twice. “Hey, Jack! Where are you?”

A tall, thin, very cat like looking man came out from behind a set of swinging doors where Archie could hear a slight burst of kitchen clatter before it was muted by the doors’ closing. He suspected there was a spell cast on those doors as well, but he decided not to ask about it. The man himself was rough looking with wild black hair and a scruffy looking tail that looked as if it had been broken at least twice. However his bright green eyes were kind and Archie decided that he liked the man.
Jack likewise sized up Archie, noting that he was a human, but a human that seemed quite at peace in the noisy bar. This put Jack at ease as he grinned at Mary, “Caught yourself a mouse I see.”

“I prefer to do my hunting at night,” Mary said with a grin.

Archie blinked a few times before he realized that they were talking about him. At first he was slight offended, but then Jack caught his eye and gave him a wink. “No disrespect sir. Since humans compare us to cats then we compare you too mice, just to even the odds. So, care for something to drink?”

Archie grinned, “Sure, this mouse could use some bourbon.”

“I’ll have my usual, Jack,” Mary told him.

“Comin’ right up!” Jack said and wandered back through the double doors
where another blast of noise reached Archie’s ears before it was muted again.

“Mouse?” Archie asked.

Mary shrugged, “Better then calling you monkey people,” she replied with a laugh. “Besides, you’re a cute mouse.”

“Mice can be dangerous you know,” Archie replied.

“Oh, I’m well aware. However we’re neither mouse nor cat, so why bother?”

“Why bother indeed?” Archie asked sweetly.

Mary laughed again, “I knew I liked you,” she said happily.
_________________
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[Neko]

Jack came back out from behind the double doors with two glasses, one filled with Archie’s bourbon and another filled with a simple beer. Mary took her with a grin and sipped it. “What a day,” she sighed after the first sip.

Archie nodded and took his own glass, sipping it cautiously just to make sure. He certainly didn’t get to where he was without a little paranoia. “Day, week, month,” Archie said while grinning at his reflection in his drink.

Mary nodded and sipped her beer again. “Den and Dan, how were they over the trip?” she asked softly.

Archie took another, longer draught before answering. “They were quiet at first, not very trustful. It got better over time, Den especially. I felt really sorry for the kids for some reason. I mean I knew about their parents and all but, they just seemed kind of lonely.”

Mary nodded and stroked the cool precipitation off her glass with her thumb. “They’ve been trained for this kind of thing their whole lives. It’s not fair to put this on their plates so early and it would just be easier to bring in another family until we can rescue their parents, but,” she sighed heavily and took a drink before continuing. “Unfortunately for us tradition and culture dictates a lot on how we act. And currently our tradition says otherwise.”

Archie nodded, “Life isn’t easy anywhere, no matter where you look.”
Mary smiled and her ears went down in a sad motion. Archie swiveled around to look at her as she played with her glass. “No, it’s not. It’s just…” she looked up suddenly at Archie with a wild look in her eyes. “It’s not fair, Archie! It’s not fair to those kids or anyone who has to deal with helping them. They’re only thirteen years old! They don’t know how to run a country. Sure they can read and refer to past decisions but, what about now, and the real world? Nothing in this world is going to stay the same just so they know how to react to it!”

Archie looked at her and frowned. “Yeah, but like you said, tradition…”
“To hell with tradition!” Mary snapped. “Den and Dan’s parents wanted their kids to live their own lives before they were called to fulfill their duty to society. Now they’re not even getting that! Where is the honor in that tradition?”

Archie frowned, “Is it your place to say anything?”

Mary shook her head and swiveled her chair to face her drink. She shook her head as she looked down the cooling glass. “No, it’s not,” she said softly. “I can’t speak out in politics because I’m part of the military. Politics, religion and military are kept separate in debates as much as possible.”

“Wise,” Archie murmured while he returned to his drink.

Mary let a small smile flicker on her lips before picking up her mug and draining it. “Yeah,” she muttered. “Although I’m starting to break one of the rules so I’ll stop this conversation for now,” she said loudly as she set the mug back on the bar with a loud thump.

Archie gaped at her and looked at his own, barely touched glass of alcohol. “I have never met a woman who could do that.”

Mary looked at the now empty glass, “What? Its just beer.”

Archie shook his head amusedly, “You are certainly a unique woman.”
Mary snorted, “Not very womanly though,” she pointed out as she rapped on the bar with her knuckles three times.

Archie shrugged, “There’s more to a woman then body and looks,” he said.

Mary laughed as Jack came out and took her empty glass. “Well, being womanly has nothing to do with looks. I just don’t enjoy very girly things, that’s all.”

“But downing a huge glass of beer in ten seconds is perfectly all right?” Archie asked her.

Mary shrugged, “To each her own.”

Archie looked her up and down, “Well you certainly don’t dress
tomboyish.”

Mary laughed out loud and took the glass that Jack had come back with. “This is the first time I’ve worn civilian clothes in months.”

Archie raised an eyebrow, “Really?” he asked.

Mary nodded, “Yeah, really. I feel more comfortable behind a weapon in
my uniform.”

Archie nodded in reply, “Yeah, I know how that feels. I didn’t like being a
part of the military but I loved being a soldier.”

Mary grinned and took a sip of her beer, “Me too. However I like protecting my land and family. I guess that can make a difference.”
Archie eyed her drink and then his. In a fit of insanity he decided to down his glass too. He almost coughed as the harsh drink burned down his throat but he held it in and slammed the glass back down on the bar.

“Yeah,” he gasped out. “It can.”

Mary eyed this little display with an amused eye. Without missing a beat she took her own glass and once again downed it. Archie took in a sharp breath as he watched this and looked at the empty glass that once held his bourbon. Mary set her glass down with a wicked grin and knocked on the bar twice. Jack came out and looked at the two empty glasses. “Yes?” he asked.

“Two beers,” Mary said without taking her eyes off of Archie’s.

Archie grinned, “Yeah,” he agreed, holding her gaze as well.

Jack rolled his eyes and did as he was told. He came out with two more glasses and set them on the bar. “You better be paying for this,” he warned them.

Mary held up her hand and waved it, then took a hold of her glass, “Don’t worry Jack, I’ve got it covered.”

Archie nodded and winked, taking his own glass. “Ladies first,” he said sweetly.

Mary lifted her glass to her lips and began drinking, Archie soon followed suit. They simultaneously set their glasses back onto the bar and looked at one another, breathing heavily. “Not bad,” Archie gasped.

“Not bad yourself,” Mary breathlessly replied.

Jack sighed heavily and took the glasses in the back again. “Soldiers,” he muttered under his breath.


Mary and Archie stumbled out of the bar together, using each other’s body as support. “That was the dumbest thing I think I’ve ever done,” Mary groaned.

Archie snickered, “Not me, but pretty close.”

Mary snorted, “Well, at the very least you can admit it.”

“Something in my gut tells me you can’t teleport right now,” Archie said while straightening up so that Mary could lean on him.

Mary sighed, “Yeah well, I didn’t expect that to happen.”

“People rarely do. But that’s what makes life fun, in a way,” Archie
replied.

Mary shrugged then looked up at Archie, “I wouldn’t think you’d be one to be introspective,” she mused.

“It’s a trait that doesn’t show often,” Archie said with a grin. “I prefer to be the quiet brooding man, I make less enemies that way.”

“Self preservation, huh?” Mary asked.

Archie nodded, “Something like that.”

Mary sighed as they walked down the dark alleys. “Well, at least I had fun.”

Archie chuckled, “Optimist?”

“I try.”

Archie nodded, “Good.”

“Hey Archie?” Mary asked softly.

“Yeah?”

“Did the kids really fight an Unknown?”

Archie frowned, “Well, whatever they fought, it sure wasn’t something I’ve
ever seen before. They were pretty sure on what it was too. Why?”

Mary sighed, “It makes me worry,” she admitted. “I’m worried for them. They’re only kids but they’ve been through so much. I hate feeling like I can’t do anything about it, like what they’re going to face is already mapped out and I have no say.”

Archie smiled, “Yeah, me too. But they’re good kids and I’m sure they’ll be fine.”

Mary nodded, her ears tickling Archie’s cheek. “I hope so, I really do.”
About an hour later, Mary had managed to successfully navigate Archie to his room without any mishaps. She held out a glowing hand and opened the door for him while Archie merely looked at her. She caught his gaze and asked, “What?”

Archie shook his head, “Nothing. I was just thinking.”

“Thinking about what?” she asked him.

Archie grinned, “That it’s been far too long since I’ve had this much fun with someone else.”

Mary smiled and put her hand behind Archie’s neck, pulling him down so that his face was just inches above hers. “Me too,” she said softly before kissing him on the lips.

Archie froze then relaxed. After a few seconds Mary broke contact and backed up a few steps. “Come to me in the morning for a useful hangover spell I was taught a few years ago.”

Archie laughed and saluted her retreating form, “It’s a date!” he replied before going into his own room.

Mary smiled and touched her lips, “Yeah,” she said to herself.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I absolutely loved writing this chapter X3
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Roses are #FF0000, violets are #0000FF. All my base are belong to you.

Avatar, credit Yakitate@devart

[Midnight]

I'm sure you did. It was rather cute--how they courted each other in the bar, even if it was over a drinking contest. o_o

I admit, as you had a lot of fun writing this, I had that much fun reading it. I was actually quite pleasantly surprised that you decided to come back to this novel after a seemingly extended hiatus. I look forward to whatever and whenever you continue this story--it's certainly a scintillating read, more so now that it is revived. Great work.
_________________
Today, these three players are after Big Bucks! But they'll have to avoid the Whammy, as they play the most exciting game of their lives! From Television City in Hollywood! It's time to 'Press Your Luck!'--Rod Roddy

The Kingdom of Loathing: An Adventurer is You! // I ♣ Seals

Avatar by Spork. I very much appreciate it! <3

[Neko]

Den woke up with a groan as his conscience came to him against his will.

To ward off the intruding thoughts he stuffed his head under his pillow and curled up. A few minutes later he sensed magic as someone opened his door and pounced on his bed right next to him.

“How can you breathe?” Dan asked his brother.

Den mumbled something that was not decipherable and Dan didn’t even try. Instead he pulled the pillow from his twin’s hands and flicked his ear. “Wake up, sleepy head.”

Den jerked and then curled away from his brother, pulling his sheets over his head. “Go away,” he whined.

“No,” Dan answered while poking his twin. “You need to get up. Or did you forget about the meeting with the Admiral today.”

Den groaned even louder and attempted to ward off his brother with subliminal messages. “Come on,” Dan said while poking him some more. Needless to say, it didn’t work.

“Go away,” Den whined again.

“I can just dump water over your head if that’ll help,” Dan said dryly.
Den sat up and glared at his brother. Dan smiled and patted Den on the head, “Good. Now get ready, we have to go to his quarters in a few minutes.”

Den sighed and pushed himself out of bed. Back to the daily song and dance, he guessed. Dan smiled, walked over to Den and hugged him. “We’ll get mom and dad back soon you know,” he said softly.

Den nodded, “I know.”

Dan gave Den a large smile, “Well, now that that’s settled, get ready. We have a big day.”

Den nodded and reached for a set of clothes on the chair next to his bed. “I’ll be out in a few minutes.”

Dan turned around and walked out of his brother’s room. A big day indeed.


Den and Dan walked slowly down the halls of the palace to where the Admiral was waiting for them. “Think he’ll say ‘I told you so?’” Den asked.

“I think he’s bigger then that,” Dan replied in an uncertain tone.

Den frowned, “Really?”

“No,” came the blunt reply.

Den sighed, “I would rather talk to anyone besides him right now.”

Dan nodded, “Yeah, I know, but it needs to be done. We have to tell him what we found and where it happened. He might be the only person in the kingdom right now who can help us plan for the Unknowns should they come.”

Den linked his hands behind his head and looked at the high ceiling. “Being responsible sucks.”

Dan laughed, “Well, at least you can still say that with a straight face.”
“I’m serious!” Den replied. “Whatever happened to just being a kid?”

Dan shrugged, “We’ll be kids when this is over.”

“What if we’re no longer kids when this is over?” Den asked.

Dan sighed, “I’ll choose not to think about it,” he replied.

Den patted Dan on the shoulder, “Good idea.”

Dan and Den marched up to the ornate door that was the entrance to Admiral Lenal’s rooms. Only a fool would try and teleport into that part of the castle as the Admiral was notorious for his ‘act first ask questions later’ policy. Den knocked on the door and from within they heard a low growl. Den backed away and almost suggested that they leave before they both heard, “Come in, I assume you still know how.”

Den glared at the door and viciously shoved his magic into the woodwork, making it sparkle dangerously. The door swung open violently and a man in his late forties glared back at them with dark amber eyes. “I suggest you keep your temper next time, child.”

Den opened his mouth for a quick retort but Dan was one step ahead of him and had already covered his mouth before he could reply. “We’re here on request of the council.”

The man shook wild black bangs from his eyes and brushed imaginary dust off his decorated uniform. “Of course,” he smirked. “You two would never see me willingly.”

“There’s a reason for that!” Den snapped.

Dan sighed and put his hand back over Den’s mouth. “We mean no disrespect sir, we are just very busy.”

“Of course you are,” the Admiral said in a very soothing voice. “Just like I’m busy directing troops to imaginary places so I don’t invade the human’s land.”

Dan’s eyes flashed and he removed his hand from Den’s mouth. “Sir, I will trust you to hold your tongue when you are tempted to reply in such a way.”

The Admiral held up his hands, “Of course, of course, child. Now, tell me, what is it you wish me to do?”

“We were sent to you, not the other way around,” Den growled. “You know perfectly well we’re the one who are answering to you this time. Now stop playing with us and ask your questions.”

The Admiral grinned, showing rows of sharp white teeth. The facial expression almost made him look like a wild cat, ready to pounce and the action put Den and Dan on edge. “Very well then, please take a seat,” he motioned to two chairs that were in front of him.

Den and Dan did as they were told and waited quietly. After a few minutes the Admiral indulged them by opened his hand and focusing a small pinprick of light in the center of it and letting it grow until he held a mini scale globe in his hands. Then he set the globe of magic between them and let it grow until it took up almost all the space between them. Den and Dan stared at the man through the translucent projection and wondered what he was going to do next.

“So, I have troops placed here,” he pointed, “here,” he pointed a little to the left, “and here,” he pointed at an area that Den and Dan knew to be a sea port. “As you see I am positioned well by the borders and at sea.”

“You’re positioned for invasion,” Dan hissed.

“Precisely,” the Admiral said with a grin. “Now, listen to me,” he said softly, his grin relaxing into a concerned look. “You kids are this land’s last hope, and if I have to lock you in a room myself I am not letting you leave like that again. We will get your parents back and this damned war will end but not until you let me.”

Den shook his head, “Absolutely not.”

The Admiral sighed and rubbed his forehead, “Look, kids, I’m not the bad guy. I just want what’s best for our people.”

Den and Dan exchanged looks. “Sir, we’re not trying to upset you, but that’s not what’s best for anyone. We learned it when we were five, ‘two wrongs don’t make a right,’ and retaliating with more violence isn’t the right way. I’m thirteen years old and I know that.”

The Admiral chuckled and shook his head, “You kids amaze me.”

“I wish I could say the same,” Den muttered sullenly.

Dan elbowed his twin in the arm causing him to yelp. “Please sir, just a few more weeks. Let the council come up with something. If they don’t give us a plan in two weeks we’ll go ahead with yours.”

The Admiral nodded, “Good, good.”

“We will?” Den yelped.

“Yes, we will,” Dan told Den forcibly then leaned forward, “We cannot continue to argue with this man every second of the day, something has to give way and now that everyone knows about the unknowns there will be a media panic. Let’s take one thing at a time right now,” he whispered into Den’s ear.

Den held Dan’s gaze for a few seconds, and then nodded. “All right.”
The Admiral nodded, “All right kids, you have two weeks. Also, as for the Unknowns, I will make it clear to the council that you are not to be released again unless I am with you every step of the way. Understand?”

“Yes sir,” Den and Dan groaned.

“Good, you are dismissed,” the Admiral told them and Den and Dan were more then happy to leave.

The Admiral pinched the bridge of his nose and took in a deep breath as they left. “Sometimes I worry about those brats,” he muttered.


Later that evening Den and Dan were in Mary’s room with Ryan, James and Archie. “Well?” Mary asked. “Was it bad?”

“Not too bad,” Den sighed. “The old man confuses me though, one minute he’s yelling at us, the next he tells us how worried he is.”

Mary sighed, “He’s torn between being a good soldier and complying with the wishes of two thirteen year old boys. Kids, I know not wanting to fight is the ideal way to fix this, but sometimes a fight is necessary.”

Dan groaned, “We know, all right? We know and we’ve already agreed to a two week time limit.”

Mary smiled and rubbed Dan’s ears, “All right, I didn’t mean to upset you.”

Den let his head thump on the table making a dull hollow sound. “I hate being pushed and pulled around like this. Everyone is telling us to make our own decisions while simultaneously telling us what to choose. I’m sick of it.”

Archie pulled out a cigarette, “That’s why you need a time limit. I mean if you think about it, going to war isn’t a bad thing, if anything it will get you the answers you want.”

“Like what?” Den and Dan asked.

“Well, you two are trying to find out where the Unknowns are coming
from, right?” Archie asked.

“Yeah,” came the answer.

“Then maybe you should let a few days of skirmish bring them out,” Archie suggested. “I mean it can’t hurt.”

Den and Dan shifted uncomfortably in their seats. “Fighting is a last resort,” Ryan said softly. “Let’s leave it at that.”

James nodded, “Very well put, Master Ryan.”

Archie and Mary exchanged looks but didn’t say anything beyond what was already said on that matter. Instead, Mary decided to change the subject. “So, what are you kids going to do for the free day?”
Den sighed, “Well, we’ll go out there and say everything we can. I mean there will be truth spells on everything, I’m sure.”

“Truth spells?” Ryan asked.

“A spell put on an ordinary object that glows brightly when someone close to it lies. The worse the lie to brighter it glows,” Mary explained. “It’s expensive, but a sure fire way to make sure.”

“Expensive?” James asked.

“Yes, only people who are specially trained in that kind of magic can perform the spell. It’s very tricky to make a spell apart of an object.”

“Like the doors?” Archie asked.

“Exactly like,” Mary replied. “However different people do different things.”

“And they’re all apart of different families?” Ryan asked dubiously.

Mary nodded, “Yeup. It’s confusing but it all evens out in the end. So back onto what we’re going to do. Is it just a free for all or a formal
thing?” Mary asked.

“I’d prefer nothing non-formal,” Dan groaned. “Dress clothes make me itch.”

Archie chuckled softly, “Well, do you have time to pull together a formal event in an afternoon?” he asked.

“Never underestimate the power of the staff of this palace,” Mary said with a smirk. “However I think a non-formal affair might be best in this case.”
Den and Dan both cheered silently and Ryan wondered what they had just gotten out of.

“However, you two will still have to be in plain sight at all time, do I make my self clear?” Mary snapped.

“Yes ma’am!” Den and Dan saluted her mockingly.

Mary flicked their ears lightly, making them wince. “Don’t get cheeky with me you two,” she warned.

“Yes,” they said slowly.

Ryan hid a smile behind his hand and Den kicked him softly under the table to which Ryan retaliated with an icy glare. Den merely smiled warmly in return.

“Okay kids,” Mary said warningly. “Let’s all get ready for tonight and no hiding. I’m not going to spend the first two hours running around looking for you two.”

“Not my fault!” Den and Dan exclaimed at the same time.

Mary rolled her eyes then shooed the twins and Ryan out of her room to get ready.

“Uptight at all?” Archie asked.

Mary sighed, “I feel a little uneasy for some reason. Like, something is going to happen.”

“Some kind of magic sense?” Archie asked.

Mary shook her head, “No, women’s intuition.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

x_x whooo /o/
_________________
Roses are #FF0000, violets are #0000FF. All my base are belong to you.

Avatar, credit Yakitate@devart

[Midnight]

You know, you were right about what you said in the channel earlier this evening--I do seem to be the only one who is cheering for this fic to go on. Nevertheless...

This was interesting. It didn't seem to stick as well in the brain as some of the previous chapters, but that's perfectly alright. The Admiral comes out to be quite a strange character, really--you have him painted out to be all gung-ho, yet his dialogue seems to suggest otherwise...

Other than that, this was a fine read.
_________________
Today, these three players are after Big Bucks! But they'll have to avoid the Whammy, as they play the most exciting game of their lives! From Television City in Hollywood! It's time to 'Press Your Luck!'--Rod Roddy

The Kingdom of Loathing: An Adventurer is You! // I ♣ Seals

Avatar by Spork. I very much appreciate it! <3