madpuppeteer | Act 1: And Thus Darkness Descends [ written ]

[ After exploring some of the wonders and splendors of Luceti, the scientist known as the “Puppeteer” decides to write a bit about about them. He's eager to jot down his notes but just as eager to share them with others. Hence his reason for using this enchanted journal for all to behold. ]

My, my...

Have I finally arrived to the paradise were angels sleep? While I doubt there is truly be a “Heaven”, I must confess that this realm comes alarmingly close to one, at least in reference to the natives here. It's quite difficult for one such as I not to notice the “wings” upon the people's backs. Especially since these wings look quite out of place in standard humanoid anatomy. Nevertheless, I see plenty of patrons sporting such appendages despite how useless such tiny wings might be.

I could understand if these wings proved to have some form of practicality, but it seems that they do not. This, however, begs the question regarding if these wings are just for aesthetics. Judging by sheering pain I felt when I plucked out a single feather, I've come to the conclusion that these abnormal appendages are very much so real and vital. Although, as of why that is has yet to reveal itself. I'm certain that in due time that I'll unlock the mysterious revolving this glorious paradise and all it's splendors.

Until then, I shall patiently observe from the sidelines and learn what I can from the actions of others. This is perhaps my best approach to this rather fascinating matter.

[ His pen stops suddenly, but only for a mere moment before he begins writing again. ]

…

With this entry concluded, are there anyone willing to volunteer themselves for the sake of science? I'm just asking for one or two volunteers for a hypothesis I desire to test. It won't be painful, not at first.

[ There's something quite ominous about his request... ]

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Very well. I shall await for you there then. Make sure to come with haste, Kazuma.

[ With that said, Relius closes his journal abruptly and takes a moment to ponder about the matter at hand. It seems that instead of finding himself partnered with Terumi again, now he's faced by his former apprentice. He could've sworn that all of Kazuma's subconsciousness vanished once the body swapping was completed. However, it seems that the Malnosso are playing games with him. ]

...This could be quite detrimental to my plan.

[Kazuma will be arriving at the destination in probably about 10-15 mins later. He's lost in thought, surprised to be seeing a number of familiar faces showing up in Luceti lately. First Terumi, then Litchi, and now the Professor. He sees him, waiting for him just up ahead. He should be happy to be seeing him as well, but after everything he heard in the last month...there was doubt surrounding his mentor]

I hope I didn't keep you waiting too long, sir.

[ Seemingly focused on the rare fauna and flora of this healthily green region, Relius almost didn't notice his apprentice approach until Kazuma was almost right beside him. He was lost in thought and rightfully so considering this unusual change of events. Hadn't he known that the Malnosso weren't the ones behind this scheme, then Relius would've assumed that the "gods" were the ones playing tricks on him.

Giving Kazuma a glance once he spoke, Relius welcomed him with a tight-lipped welcome. ]

No, you've managed to arrive in ample enough time considering you traveled by foot.

[ He smirked slightly. ]

Tell me, how are you feeling? You are well, aren't you? You certainly seem healthy enough.

I...yes. I've been well. [Were Relius here last month, it'd be another story, but he was getting better now.]

It's been...it's been a long time since we last saw each other. I know I should be back at the guild, but...I was forcefully sent here, just like you have.

[ Now rubbing the bridge of his nose in slight agitation, Relius replies rather sternly. He's demanding to know more about the Malnosso, more about their heinous plot, and more as of how they managed to completely ruin everything he worked so hard to achieve. That crushing sense of defeat was slowly creeping upon him now, that and his temper. ]

This I realized already, Kazuma.

[ He lowers his hand and placed it upon his hip. ]

However, this does nothing to explain as of "how" these gutless despots managed to convincingly pull off such a scheme so flawlessly. Who are they? "The Malnosso", I mean.

[He frowns. Kazuma seems to sense his frustration, making him slightly nervous.]

...I don't know how much I can explain to you about them. They're scientist who watch over this place, force us in experiments and basically our only way to leave this place. There's a guide in the journal about them. They also protect us from an organization known as the Third Party. They want to destroy this place, and everyone in it.

The puppeteer shouldn't be at the strings of another...

[ He mumbled too low for the boy to hear. Giving a thoughtful gaze towards the sky above, Relius finally acknowledged Kazuma's words with a faint chuckle. ]

I take it that the Malnosso aren't the negotiable types.

...When it comes to wanting to leave this place, no.

[...] Professor, I wanted to ask you something. What was the last thing you remembered before you arrived here?

[ Almost retreating to his thoughts again, Relius was nearly caught off-guard by the sudden inquiry. ]

Hm?

[ He arched his brow in mild in wonder. ]

What is the meaning of this? Why are you asking?

[ Be damned if he was to tell the truth now. ]

Well because...time works differently here. I've met others from our world who were close to a century in the future from our time. So...that's why I wanted know what you last remembered.

Act 1: And Thus Darkness Descends [ written ]

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