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Post by ◊◊BLOODBEASTER◊◊ on May 21, 2016 1:21:31 GMT -8
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Post by ◊◊BLOODBEASTER◊◊ on May 21, 2016 1:22:20 GMT -8
After a day of unpleasant dreams, Anselm dragged himself out of the dirt to take care of a dreaded chore...
He hadn't really considered how cold it was until he was out on the boardwalk, getting funny looks for his bare arms. Oh well. Not like those humans would have any effect on his un-life. Night fell early this time of year, and perhaps if he finished this quickly, he could go on to do something more fun. Maybe Demetri would see that this task was completely pointless, and he wouldn't have to continue to kiss his way through the entire roster of strangers. He looked for his date. Err... the person he was meeting.Döllinger emerged through the wall of human heat,
wearing a low slung fur coat. He could tell she had
a short sword underneath.
A human got in her way for a second and she glared
him off, before finally reaching the reluctant kisser.
 
Döllinger-
<<Eichel. Though I understand you prefer Anselm?
Or is that with more youthful vampires only?>>
Anselm-
<<Anselm is fine. You prefer Döllinger
I imagine? How are you tonight?>>
She honestly didn't look that much like a twelve year old,
but certainly not his type. They'd spoken a brief few times
over the years, but not in depth or very personally. 
Döllinger-
<<Loisa is fine for the occasion. I've heard of
your 'goof rhymes' before, but never conceived
one might use them strategically.>>
Anselm-
<<Haha, you've heard of it? I hadn't thought
of it myself either, not sure if it will work...
Guess it's worth a try?>>
Döllinger-
<<You've made a true believer of Demetri.
He was impressed you predicted the unfortunate
death of his sisters.>>
Anselm-
<<So he says. So funny that I can't remember them
after they're spoken. I guess if you hear one,
be sure to write it down!>>
They strolled along the pier, the seawater smell rife with decaying creatures
and plant matter, but not wholly unpleasant. It was an unusual setting for
Anselm, who was really looking forward to that artificial beach, rather than
these jagged stone shores. 
Anselm-
<<Have you been to Glenland before?
Your Glennish is much better than mine.>>
D -
<<There have been times through history when these nations
had more discourse. I learned Glennish in a time of diplomacy
between courts.>>
A -
<<Wow, I learned mine from TV. Haha... I'm surprised very
few here speak Grauish, I guess the tides have turned.>>
D -
<<No doubt business men are more likely to than the common folk.>>
A -
<<Perhaps so, Demetri is the closest to fluency here
and quite business-like. Sounds funny though, old
fashioned. I'm sure I sound ridiculous! But ah well.>>
D -
<<My vernacular seems antiquated as well. I catch looks sometimes.>>
A -
<<Oh really? I hadn't noticed.>>
D -
<<Mm... So, the spirit of this ability requires a measure
of camaraderie. Familiarity we do not possess. What can
we do to get to know each other better?>>
A -
<<I suppose conversation is a good way to begin.
Hm, how do you feel about the war effort so far?>>
D-
<<It's great! There have been missteps, true, but I haven't
faced a challenge like this in some time! It pleases me.>>
A -
<<Hm, I wonder if I would feel more
hopeful if I was part of the 'avant-garde.'>>
D-
<<Surely, you can talk to Engelsdorff, she's been there and seems
to have some opinions she's not necessarily shared with me.>>
A-
<<Oh? Hm, I wonder... I feel like they may not allow me
to the front since my last go was... not entirely successful.>>
D-
<<No! Of course they will. Hm perhaps at the moment Demetri feels you
may be of better strategic use as a kisser, but once you've kissed all you can
danger is no concern. Engelsdorff was laid low in a quite grisly fashion on
our very first outing.>>
A-
<<Oh no, that's terrible... That was the daytime attack?>>
D-
<<Yes, well, I expect it didn't hurt too badly. It was quick.>>
A-
<<That's good... What do you suppose will
happen when we finally kill our enemy?>>
D-
<<That is when things become a little less interesting. Well, a lot less
interesting. For me, maybe more interesting for you. That's when the
new power structure of the town will be resolved.>>
A-
<<Ah yes... I feel a bit like the five year old prince
appointed to rule over the court of the powerful.>>
D-
<<Hehehe... That's charming. It shouldn't be a worry. People always
respected you in Reckenburg. It should be much the same here.>>
A-
<<Thank you, that is nice to hear.>>
Some kids rolled by on skateboards, whooping incoherently.
A-
<<Will you stay in town at that point?>>
D-
<<At least for a time, resolving Dallmann's stake in Harlan's future.>>
A-
<<I'm curious about that. They have this strange restriction in the
particular number of progenitors. How will it shake out, I wonder.>>
D-
<<I think Dragomir will change his view when faced
with the final accounting. But maybe we should discuss
things more conducive to building an amity between us.>>
A-
<<Oh, sure... I suppose it will be nice to have a conversation in a
more fluent tongue! Ah, is there anything you wonder about me?>>
D-
<<This is a rare opportunity, I should do my best to take advantage of it.
But I wonder if my questions might bring up bad memories. You know
you've always been interesting for the circumstances in which you
became a vampire. Might I inquire about that?>>
A-
<<Mn, sure... it's been a while, at least relative to my life.>>
She read him carefully. How bothered would he be? He seemed
mildly put off about it. Could depend on how she broached it.
D-
<<Mmm, Von Hechten must have known you disliked him, but one got
the impression he somehow fooled himself into believing otherwise, at
least on an unconscious level. Did you allow or encourage that delusion?>>
A-
<<Ah, good question...>>
He considered it for a moment, seeming to
find the question somewhat interesting.
A-
<<He was always difficult for me to understand, he was obviously
intelligent, but made incredibly foolish choices. I don't know how he could
have imagined that going well for him. I think I allowed it, and I'm not sure
whether he ever bought it, or just found it easier to not question.>>
D-
<<Heehee, what a fool. I have a habit of speaking in a lofty fashion, which
I've endeavored to undercut. Why? Time and again I've found the most
intellectually assured people develop hubris - and I don't think my pretense
will breed such buffoonery, but I don't want to look like a target to someone
as plain-spoken and sharp as yourself.>>
A-
<<Aw, that's sweet. I wonder if it's natural, as we age? I have the language
barrier here, but it seems about the same with our friend Demetri. At least
I'm improving my Glennish vocabulary.  >>
D-
<<I'm culling my Glenny words from Soari-Glen hiphop and R&B.
My hope is to sound more grounded, and more of-the-moment.>>
A-
<<That's a good idea! Maybe I'll have to try that. I get a lot from television,
but I might learn more Antearctan slang which is less useful. Hm...>>
He looked a bit sheisty. .gif)
A-
<<What do you think of our friend Demetri?>>
She stepped out between passing people and leaned
forward against the railing over the black night water.
D-
<<Mm, I sometimes wonder if better strategies could be devised by one
with all of his knowledge but more emotional distance from the situation.
But then, there's no way to find out. I, for one, could not hope to learn all
he knows of Harlan and its doings. He'll pull through.>>
He joined her, leaning on the railing nearby.
A-
<<I hope so. He's strange to me. Well, maybe everyone here is strange to me.
I never did travel, so it may take getting used to.>>
She looked at him past a crazy bank of hair. As a couple, they didn't even
look too weird for this waterfront. A tall spike-jacketed guy walked behind
them with a fur-collared shorty on his arm, clonez passing each other
without notice in the night.
D-
<<Mm-hm. Hey, you know how in Reckenburg we have, ah, sex cliques?
We Dallmanns will be with each other, sometimes the Teufulkunsts, but
rarely the Finsterwalds. You are often with them, and so on? I find it
strange that there is nothing like that in Harlan.>>
A-
<<Heh, that's true. I wonder why? Just Glennish prudishness?
They don't have much interchange, I guess they could feel too familiar.
They've about doubled their numbers with the new children,
perhaps someday in the future they may loosen up?>>
D-
<<Ah yes. Glenland followed a different path. You know, Grauland's
liberation came from the boudoirs of the decadent, which were once
much the same between our countries. But it 'went mainstream', as
they say, in our homeland, while in Glenland it remained embarrassed.>>
A-
<<How funny, well, our lot is here now, our irrepressible charm shall
surely win them over. >>
D-
<<Mm-hm-ha... If you could win over any of them, who would it be?>>
Anselm smiled and gave her a sly look.A-
<<Well... perhaps since the children are closer to my age, I find more in
common with them. Several are very glamorous, even a fashion model.
But the most? Hmm... I enjoyed my time with our friend Demetri.
I don't know if I'm to his taste. How about you? Anyone you're interested
in, perhaps after the war effort?>>
D-
<<Oooh, very nice. Mm, well, this interesting man appeared to us the
other night, offered his services to the Circle, contingent upon payment
in gold. So wonderfully antique, well-muscled, gorgeous hair...>>
A-
<<Sounds romantic! A traveling warrior? That fits well with you, I think.
Maybe you can travel the continent together after we prevail!
You haven't had much chance to flex your muscles, so to speak,
back in our homeland. How does it feel?>>
D-
<<Ah, these fights are too brief. Exhilarating, but so swift that prolonged
sparring can prove more satisfying. By that measure, home was better.
Although, I am getting some good sparring, with Ausmiller and Demetri.>>
A-
<<That sounds fun, I'm not good at the physical combat but I've enjoyed my
target practice. Yes, uf, I guess that's a problem with the single, powerful
enemy isn't it? I was hoping for a bit more adventure. Perhaps we may run
afoul of those outsider vampires, and have a tussle. Though that may be more
at my skill level than yours.>>
D-
<<Mm, the Crowboys? Ever since Marcus laid several to rest, they've been
quite shy. Where is bravery these nights? They should be more like you.>>
A-
<<Aw, you're sweet. I suppose I'll have to settle for teaching the young ones,
they are still timid, but recovered well enough after a big scare. They may be
warriors yet! I've had a good time with it, maybe it just boosts my ego, haha...
Have you worked with any? I believe Demetri and Ausmiller do.>>
D-
<<Mm, no. Ausmiller says they are too much like her Clovis. They cannot
be convinced of the power they may yet possess. But it is not mere flattery
or sweetness that I mention your courage. It is a great thing. Picicchio said a
warrior is the perfect balance of acceptance for death and desire for victory.>>
A-
<<Thank you. I think I have been too foolish lately, but our enemy seems
to be even more foolish, so it may work out! I can't help but feel if the situation
had been better... Ha, it's a bit deja vu, isn't it? I must admit, it's thrilling
having an enemy to focus on. Especially when it's less personal, as in the past.
Is that part less important to you, or do you feel the same?>>
D-
<<The injustices of my time among the dead were much the same as those
from life, and it's all just rolled off me and sunk into the rivers. I've never
fought a foe for personal reasons, it only now occurs to me that it may be as
stressful as it is romantic. Well... I don't know...>> She scooted a little closer.
<<You've only been around for a few years, but in that time you've become a
part of my life. Not close, but like a familiar house that I pass every day on my
way. I like you being around. I'm glad you came to Harlan with us.>>
He leaned an elbow on the railing, and turned to face her more directly.A-
<<That's funny, you were one of the first vampires I met. Back when I was still
wearing Von Hechten's tired cast-offs. I'm glad I came too, it's a completely
different world here, but I'm glad to have familiar faces around as well...>>
D-
<<Hmm... You know, for all of our differences, this may
be the best moment to try. What do you think, home boy?>>
A-
<<I agree, let us try...>>
He totally leaned in for dat smooch. The convo definitely helped dispel the 12-year-old
thing, so he didn't do it granny style, either. She met his lips with confidence. They criss-
crossed a few times, her hand on his cheek, and then parted...
Anselm-
<<Ah-- mn, I have... hold on.>>
He held her hands gently. 
Anselm-
"Glänzenden Scheiben werden zerkratzt,
Computer-Musik wird nie geknackt..."
 
Anselm-
<<Oh... hm. Not useful, is it?>>
Döllinger-
<<Oh no. My CDs...>>
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Post by ◊◊BLOODBEASTER◊◊ on May 21, 2016 1:23:20 GMT -8
After the date... Demetri got a text!FROM: ANSELM
Hello it doesn't work with Doll. Not useful.
Nocturnally pensive,
Anselm
FROM: DEMETRI
Nothing? Not a word?
FROM: ANSELM
It makes a word but not useful. Her CD gets scratch.
Usually it does only it...
Accepting failure,
Anselm
FROM: DEMETRI
Blast. But we can take this as proof of concept.
A rhyme was had. Now. What went wrong? Were you
unable to get close, emotionally? Was there a problem
with the kiss?
FROM: ANSELM
It's okay, it's nice enough girl, but not my style.
I don't know... I tried but did not make a good job.
Maybe it's not for me to do.
Quietly puzzled,
Anselm
FROM: DEMETRI
Nonsense, you'll do better next time. Just think on
what you did this time, and do the next one differently.
Now. I think Ellen may be best. She will be near at
hand whenever Greyburn is attacked, and so her future
may grant us insight into how that will unfold.
FROM: ANSELM
Hum, if it is necessary... I never met before. I do not know
if they do not like me. Maybe they don't like a type of me.
Trusting but unsure,
Anselm
FROM: DEMETRI
Who could dislike you? She knows Grauish better than I.
If you think you would have better luck with Ausmiller, I can
simply plan to keep her with Greyburn, thereby gaining that
same strategic insight. What do you think?
FROM: ANSELM
I kissed Ausmiller, in other times. But I do not have
an opinion. I do not feel but I'll do what you tell me to.
I want to be useful for you but I am uncertain.
Are we going to fight soon? I am healed.
Ready to strike an enemy,
Anselm
FROM: DEMETRI
These kisses are a strike against the enemy, the best
we can do until he returns from hiding. You shall date
Ellen then. I'll make the arrangements presently.
FROM: ANSELM
ok......With patient willpower,
Anselm
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Post by ◊◊BLOODBEASTER◊◊ on May 23, 2016 0:44:37 GMT -8
  
<<Please, no more! It doesn't work!
Why don't I just kiss you instead? >> <<Hm, you are not sexy enough.
Now kiss this strange woman.>>
   
<<HELLO I AM 'ALIEN!' YOU MUST KISS ME!>>
<<Oh no...>>
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Post by ◊◊BLOODBEASTER◊◊ on May 23, 2016 0:46:54 GMT -8
Anselm came to the new abbey at Greyburn's with too many agendas.
Do the rhymey date with Ellen, visit Babette, sneak in to see Aubrey.
Word of mouth when he arrived was that Ellen wasn't up for it, off
being swordity. He was about to skip along when cornered by Gisele...  
Ausmiller-
<<An-selm, how could you?>>
Anselm-
<<Ah, Ausmiller...! I uh, I was just...
Stopping by to say hello.>>
 
Ausmiller-
<<And now you lie to me on top of
this? Don't make me weep.>>
Anselm-
<<Mn, sorry... I was just going to explore the grounds.
It's a very interesting place!>>
 
Ausmiller-
<<Don't let this old woman stop you, brave boy.>>
Anselm-
<<Ha, now you tease me. I am only sneaking around
to get myself in trouble, not to avoid lovely ladies.
How are you this evening?>>
 
Ausmiller-
<<Mmm, perhaps... Perhaps I am daring
to have some dreams of my own.>>
Anselm-
<<Oh? What do you dream of?>>
Ausmiller-
<<I dream that Wolz does not come
here, while Clovis and I remain.>>
Anselm-
<<Hm, it doesn't seem impossible, does it?
They seem very particular about how many
progenitors stay in town, and our quota is full...>>
Ausmiller-
<<I doubt that particular remains as particular,
but social inertia may keep her there. Then... what
a dream. To live in a storied and grand city, instead
of that mouldering dump in the hills...>>
Anselm-
<<It's exciting here, isn't it? I've never traveled before,
but you've been in Grauland for a very long time, right?>>
Ausmiller-
<<For. Ever. How does this land have so few vampires
in comparison? The Circle hardly knows the factions
beyond the gates, but the nearest are quite weak and small.
It means that as grand as the city is, we may even be able to
travel beyond it. A trip to the pleasant shores in Belland?>>
Anselm-
<<Now you have me curious. I imagine their strict rule has
kept other families to the outskirts, who lives in these
other places? I've been thinking about beaches lately!
What a coincidence.>>
Ausmiller-
<<I know! We should march to the water naked as
pilgrims and cast our sorrows into the Great Ocean.>>
 
Anselm-
<<Hahaha, we should go to Glenside-Bonnern and
live like the pre-Goddites in gauzy robes! Sounds like
a good time.>>
Ausmiller-
<<That realm is bound to be glutted with territorial
undead due to the financial powers, but there are other
lands of interest and ancient power...>>
Ausmiller-
<<Well, embrace me, dear. I would feel you near.>>
Anselm-
<<Hehe, it's been a while, hasn't it?>>
He came close and embraced her, their bony sternums meeting.
She held him firmly but with the ease to let him know he was free,
she tilted her head, she reached out with her fancy lips...
  
Anselm-
<<Huhu, so naughty! I hope you enjoy
my lips and not just my magic. >>
Ausmiller- <<Lips, lips!>>
He took her hands in his.
Anselm-
"Unter dem Baum,
die Vögel sind vorbereiten...
Ein schlechter Traum,
der Auto will zu weinen."
Anselm-
<<Hm, what's it mean?>> Ausmiller-
<<It's really quite mysterious.>>
THE NEXT NIGHT, when Gisele and Clovis went to where their
car was parked under a tree, they found it covered in misdeeds.
Ausmiller-
"Die Vögel auf dem Baum... freches Wesen."
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Post by ◊◊BLOODBEASTER◊◊ on Jun 2, 2016 21:13:19 GMT -8
  
<<Why don't you like me?>>
<<You are super boring and bad at fighting.
Anyway, you have to kiss the angry woman.>>
 
<<SHREEEIIII!>>
<<Oh well.>> |
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Post by ◊◊BLOODBEASTER◊◊ on Jun 2, 2016 21:21:22 GMT -8
To reduce naughty doings, Ellen made sure to reschedule
her kiss date with Anselm to a restaurant far from the abbey.  
Ellen-
"Glaubst du Unruhe hier finden können, böse Kind?"
Anselm-
<<Ohh I'm sorry, you know.
I'm not a bad boy... normally...>>
Ellen-
<<Just the same, I have my eye on you.>>
Anselm-
<<Haha, no trouble to get into here, is there?
I won't run out and leave you with the check.>>
 
Ellen-
<<Mmm... Very well. Let's get down to business.
Explain this power to me. How can we make it work?>>
Anselm-
<<Well, honestly, it's very unreliable and strange. If I kiss with someone
I like, I may be able to recite a rhyme. They can be predictive, but usually
incredibly inconsequential things, sometimes they're too mysterious to
ever understand. I guess one the other day was lucky, so now Demetri
thinks I've got psychic powers.>>
Ellen-
<<Bloody hell. Well... They are useful at least rarely.
Any clues about what differentiates the lucky from the rest?>>
Waitress-
"Good evening, my name is--"
 
Ellen-
"Verzeihen Sie-- Ah, Sorry, can we just have the
order quickly and quietly? Two pepper salads and
two glasses of Derrington. Red."
Waitress-
"Of course..." She nodded politely and left.
Ellen-
<<What makes a good one work?>>
Anselm-
<<Ha, I wouldn't even know what to order anymore,
and it hasn't been that long since I was alive.>>
Anselm-
<<It's very erratic. My best friends in the universe may only get
a warning to move their car before they get a fine. Perhaps our
lives have just been less exciting, less to be warned about.
Generally... familiarity, camaraderie, attraction...
a good conversation goes a long way, I think.>>
Ellen-
<<I'm ordering based on what it will smell like. So...
This doesn't seem very likely to work, does it? Not that I
feel it would be impossible for us to come to like each other,
but how can one foster those feelings in a short time?
Especially to the extent we'd need for good effect.>>
Anselm-
<<I agree. It's been nice to get to know some people,
particularly if I can speak in my language, but I really don't
know why Demetri is so dead-set on this. Is he normally so...
hm, bull-headed? I can't talk any sense into him.>>
Ellen-
<<I've never known him in a situation quite like this.
He is used to being the most capable vampire of his station,
of having to care for the young and the old even when their
interests are completely at odds...
But then his sisters both died. Especially with Francesca-
Can you imagine losing a friend of hundreds of years?>>
Anselm-
<<Yes... that's true. That's what my rhyme was about, apparently.
I guess I can see why he'd think it must be very important.>>
Anselm-
<<I wish he would listen to me though, he doesn't take me seriously.
I didn't have that good a go at my battle with our Badboy, but I did
get some good hits in. It feels so silly to be doing this instead of fighting.
Maybe I'm the bull-headed one, I don't know.>>
Ellen-
<<I'm sorry. Maybe I should get to know more of who you are.>>
Anselm-
<<Ah, where to start? I understand here in Harlan you have
a different view of progenitors than we do in Reckenburg.>>
Ellen-
<<I don't know that it's true... Ah, well, do you suppose
you are insulated by your status somewhat, in Reckenburg?>>
Anselm-
<<Hm, perhaps so. I've been given many advantages there,
akin to being nobility. Though I'm not sure how much power
I gained. I could have created children if I wanted, but there
were no expectations, and I wasn't given any kind of special
say, like you have here with the Circle.>>
Ellen-
<<The legal aspect is different here, true. I thought you were
speaking of the prejudices and attitudes attendant with being a
progenitor or turned. That is probably much the same anywhere.
So. Why did you come here? A warrior spirit like Engelsdorff?>>
Anselm-
<<A bit, yes. It sounded like an adventure, and I never did get to travel.
For some reason, Wilhelm specifically reached out to me. I'm not sure
why, I'm certainly the weakest in the crowd, save for dear Clovis.
It was about time I moved as well, I never 'died' so I was overstaying
my welcome.>>
Ellen-
<<A little bit passion, a little bit reason, and
a little bit circumstance. What's the ratio?>>
Anselm-
<<Haha, a good question. Hm, I'd say a split between passion
and circumstance, and just a bit of reason in there to make it
sound like a good excuse.
Have you been to Grauland? Almost no others in the Circle
speak the language.>>
Ellen-
<<I'm afraid it's all been through correspondence. I've been
a noteworthy participant in the vampire scientific community
for a good while. Much of that is based in Grauland.
How do you receive your Glennish?>>
Anselm-
<<Heh, I hate to admit that other than a single college course,
it's all from television and movies. If I'd known I was coming here,
I would've dusted off my old textbooks! ...Maybe.
So you're a scientist? That's interesting, I've known of a few vampires
involved in those pursuits, but not closely. Most of my friends are
quite the bon-vivants. I'm not knowledgeable myself, but I have taken
some interest in chemistry insofar as it relates to the printing process.>>
Anselm-
<<Hm, makes me wonder... had you heard about the 'experiments'
of a 'Von Hechten' several years ago?>>
Ellen-
<<...Mm, yes, not exactly a member of the community, but
his strange achievement did make an impression. Whatever one
thinks of it, he definitely contributed to our understanding of how
progenitors are born. Why do you ask? Do you know him?>>
He drummed on the table a moment.
Anselm-
<<I did. Yes...>>
Anselm-
<<Hah, I suppose it's my fault for bringing him up.
But yes, I had some part in that experiment, you might say.>>
Ellen-
<<The unfortunate one?>>
Ellen-
<<Well. That may explain why you are more
conventionally attractive and even-tempered than most
progenitors. Sorry that's how it began for you.>>
Anselm-
<<Heh, thank you, it's fine. It's been a few years and I had
my... restitution. I wonder sometimes if that unnatural start
had anything to do with my stranger abilities. I might just be
a strange person though, I don't know.>>
Ellen-
<<This isn't good though. You're messing with my curiosity.
We'll never get on well if I'm talking about you as a subject.>>
Anselm-
<<Haha, perhaps so. It may help you understand me a bit, but maybe
we can talk more on that subject later to advance science. >>
Ellen-
<<I'm holding you to that...>>
Waitress-
"Pardon. Here, and... here."
Ellen-
"Good, good. Goodbye. Bring the bill by in an hour and a half."
Ellen-
<<Go on.>>
Anselm-
<<Do you date anyone here? I'm not used to Glennish culture yet,
but things seem rather formal among the older vampires.
It's very casual in Grauland, but that reputation may precede us.>>
Ellen-
<<Formal? Unromantic, I'd say. Small population, you
know everyone too well, hard to find someone who is a fit that
will last. But we have our dalliances.>>
Anselm-
<<That's about what I was imagining. We've always got
people coming and going, keeps things fresh I suppose.
I wonder how things will change with all these newcomers?
Do you have much interaction with humans? Probably
within your work, but on a personal level?>>
Ellen-
<<On a personal level of amity, yes. It takes me a
while to feel comfortable enough with a person to lay
with them. Longer than a human has. Yourself?>>
Anselm-
<<I'd like to get along with them, but... I don't do well with it.
I'm not good at pretending to be alive, not much practice either.
Being around the children lately is reminding me of that.>>
Anselm-
<<Oh-- you work with the children a lot, don't you?
How do you feel about it? I've enjoyed being around them.>>
Ellen-
<<Mmm, I don't have time to enjoy it. Too busy playing the
role Demetri once played for my sister and I - keep away from
Aubrey. That I haven't been 100% successful haunts me.>>
Anselm-
<<It sounds very difficult for you. I've been able to have the benefit
of being masterless, able to find other progenitors intriguing and
look over their cruelties and the labors their children must suffer.>>
Anselm-
<<Ha, I guess we must be solemn people, these serious topics
keep coming up. What's something frivolous-- ah, do you have
any interesting gossip? What sort of scandals do you have here--
before recent events?>>
Ellen-
<<Dragomir spins a web of nonsense. When we were to turn
the youngest here, he at first insisted on a series of games. This
had a few results. One, the children we ended up with are a silly
grab bag of characters. And two, the candidate Demetri first
nominated was turned by someone else. Quite a mess.>>
Anselm-
<<Ooh, that is scandalous indeed. Hence the movie crew.
I was advised to get my own children 'from the lobby',
funny that. Why the rush?>>
Anselm-
<<Hm, that Demetri is a strange one. I guess I've met
him at a strange time, but I do quite like him. Ah well...>>
Anselm-
<<Ha, perhaps that is my own scandal. Not much of one, honestly.
Anyone can piece together how this particular skill was discovered.>>
Ellen-
<<Ooooh, haha. Very well, I suppose I must confess my scandal.
I've allowed that rascal Thierry access to the goods again. People
really shouldn't encourage him.>>
Anselm-
<<Hahaha, oh no! I guess this fellow passed the requisite
time test? Those devilish continentals...>>
Ellen-
<<Devilish? He'd like that. Have you met him?>>
Anselm-
<<I don't think so-- well, I'm not very good at remembering
people. I get the impression he is a naughty one?>>
Ellen-
<<Not as naughty as he imagines, but he does summon devils.>>
Anselm-
<<Ahh, must be one of Inka's children, yes? I'm beginning to learn!>>
Ellen-
<<That you are. They have the spirit touch, pair it with
magic. What do you know about your own powers?>>
Anselm-
<<I imagine it has something to do with my 'animal friends.' I think
I was more attached to them than other progenitors, they'd always
'told me the rules', and they're the ones who tell me the rhymes.
Funny... feels to be less my powers, and more theirs.>>
Ellen-
<<Animal friends... Enstler calls them 'spirit nuclei', claims they
are analogous to organelles in a eukaryotic disease organism.>>
Anselm-
<<Interesting, does that mean they're some kind of possessing spirits
then? Or is the 'disease' something one already has? I know they must
be some sort of part of me, but they feel so distinct.
We can disagree, fight...>>
Ellen-
<<Again, the problem of seeing you as a subject rather
than a person. That's no way to build genuine rapport.
Maddening, isn't it?>>
Anselm-
<<Ha, it's true. At least we will have gotten a lovely conversation,
even if things don't go exactly to Demetri's ideal.>>
Ellen-
<<...It's nice, but it's not only his ideal. I would really like to be able
to bring this conflict to an end. Perhaps... If we go deeper, have a real
heart-to-heart, like humans on marijuana at four in the morning.>>
Anselm-
<<Hmm, okay. Sadly I don't think anyone here
is in the spirit so we'll just have to pretend.>>
Ellen-
<<I know! We keep talking about science and such! It's a mess.>>
Ellen-
<<Anyway, cut to the heart. You, Anselm. Who are you, inside?
Underneath everything? When you are alone? Do you have a sense
of that? Are your spirit nuclei a part of that? Are you defined at all
by what you want, or do you even know what that is?>>
Anselm-
<<Ooh... you know what's funny? When I was killed, part of the
conceit in the 'experiment' was for me to pour my heart out in a big
conversation to my murderer, so I would trust him. That's obviously
not going to stop me in this situation, but I'm just reminded.
Regardless of what other ways I may seem better off than other
progenitors, we all have our problems, and it's unfortunate that
many do not leave us. I spent my human life feeling like I wanted
to do something, I enjoyed doing something -- art-- but that one had
to fight just to be alive. Working and suffering to be allowed to work
and suffer. What was the point? Why exist at all? Mostly it was just
too painful and difficult to kill one's self, and why should I have to?
No one asks to be born.
When I died, and those physical and financial concerns were reduced,
I focused myself on vengeance, and then later still on adventure and
mystery and pleasure... I don't think I've ever had much of an idea
that the things I do would or could affect the world, so I try to get by
enjoying myself as I am able. Maybe if I were not mentally ill I would
try to become a famous artist or something, but these things are
intrinsically linked to our souls, it seems. Or it would have left
me when I was reborn.
How about you? Has too much of your life been defined by your
form of slavery? Maybe it's true of us all, it's hard to say.>>
Ellen-
<<Damn. I'm sorry to have stepped into that. Kill and kiss
are similar words in Glennish, bad songs like to remind us.
Here we are recreating bad history...
Your words are too familiar. Many people have suffered
those feelings, though of them most would never become
a progenitor. It's in the persecution, they say. Sorry again.
I'm glad it seems in some sense that your ability to enjoy
life has improved. It's hardly comparable, but my life before
undeath was a haze of choking discomfort and random pains.
But then, the slavery dominated those years of postmortem
clarity, taking me back to the same thing that gave meaning
to my short life: understanding.
I just like to make sense of the world, put together an image
of everything. The rat memorizes its maze, I memorize
cladograms, the Litani named of homologous organs and
embryologica, the progress of the Universe from its ealiest
moments to its projected heat death. I know it's pointless
in a metaphysical and spiritual sense, but it's satisfying.
It's ultimately impossible to know everything, but this
nosing about the maze is enough for me.
Do you believe in a soul, as something inherent to a human
life, as something you have lost? I'm not sure I understand.>>
Anselm-
<<Ha, our songs it's always 'kuss' and 'tschüss'...
Guess it could have the same connotations?>>
Anselm-
<<I guess I don't really believe in a soul, it's always easier to say it,
when it means... well.... whatever remains of us after we have died.
I think I'm as much me as I was before, and yet... I don't know,
the way humans age, get sick, those discomforts as you say,
how much of that makes them 'human,' and our kind not?
After I died some of my mental problems subsided, I guess the
kinds most associated with say, the endocrine system, faulty wiring.
But others remain, why is that? What makes Anselm, Anselm, and
Ellen, Ellen? Our memories? What gives us a personality? Why do
we have positive and negative traits? Do we change over time the
way humans do? Sometimes I feel more elderly than my friends
who are a hundred years older.
Does something about the way we 'reset' each night affect our minds?
Our 'souls' for lack of a better word? How do you feel about the matter,
do we have a 'soul', and what is it? How much does it weigh,
and can it dance on the head of a pin? >>
Ellen-
<<OK, I gather your meaning now. Hm... Maybe you underplay
your curiosity, as you mentioned looking for mystery. There is
nothing in what you've described of yourself that is monstrous
or alien to me, and much that is familiar. Are you my mystery
hunting friend?>>
Anselm-
<<Hahaha, that sounds delightful. Shall we search for hidden
treasures then donate them to the museum? I would be glad to
join you on an adventure, as long as you don't mind the degree
to which I am a böses Kind.>>
Ellen-
<<Any band of adventurers must have an unshaven rogue.>>
Ellen-
<<I do not normally kiss my friends, but it
seems like it might be the time. Shall we?>>
Anselm-
<<Ha, for once I can be glad I didn't get a good shave
before I died. Can't be a rogue any other way. >>
He glanced around to see if the waitress was going to descend
on them anytime soon, and scooted around the booth toward her.
Anselm-
"Ein Freundkuss."
He leaned in to kiss her lightly.
Ellen-
"Für die Freundschaft."
Anselm turned his eyes around for a moment,
looking like he might be about to say it didn't work,
when his face lit up, and he took Ellen's hands.
Anselm-
"When 'dhe dinner's all been eaten
and every foe and friend is beaten,
an ashen statue takes 'dhe string
and pulls 'dhe thread on everything."
Anselm-
"Mn, mysterious..." Ellen-
"It really worked! I mean,
who knows what it means, but there
are clear references to the conflict in there. Damn..."
 
Ellen-
"...all been eaten, and every..."
Ellen-
"Well... Er," <<It seems rather alarming, doesn't it?>>
Anselm-
<<Wow... I wonder if the only reason these have never
been useful is that nothing exciting has been going on...
I can only hope that can be unraveled to be anything
useful before it comes to be. I wish I had an insight
on them, but I tend to forget them like a dream.>>
Anselm-
<<Damn, now he's going to make me kiss everyone in town.>>
Ellen-
<<You're gonna need a lotta lip balm...>>
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Post by ◊◊BLOODBEASTER◊◊ on Jun 2, 2016 21:51:46 GMT -8
After the date... Anselm got a text!
FROM: DEMETRI
I hear it goes well. A rhyme of possible use!
FROM: ANSELM
Yes, I believe that is the best that we shall get.
you probably need to decipher some time,
so I will not bother you now...
Ready to improve the circumstance,
Anselm
FROM: DEMETRI
Oh the deciphering can happen concurrently with
any other progress you make, do not worry about
my end of things. You just keep at it, and whatever
you did with Ellen, perhaps try to do that again with
the next one. Thank you!
FROM: ANSELM
Are you sure? I would not want anyone to interrupt,
because they are so busy. Perhaps we should wait
and see whether it is first useful before I bother them?
With a sense of accomplishment and completion,
Anselm
FROM: DEMETRI
Oh I do not think we'll have that luxury, time is of the
essence. Really, it's no problem at all. You just keep
kissing them and I'll focus on strategy and such.
FROM ANSELM:
Are there anyone left to kiss? I guess I can do
if you believe it is essential...
In duty bound,
Anselm
FROM: DEMETRI
I do hope the bounds aren't too strenuous. Carry on.
Refer to the dossier I hand delivered on the 6th. Thank
you again, sir.
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Post by ◊◊BLOODBEASTER◊◊ on Jun 3, 2016 13:54:49 GMT -8
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Post by ◊◊BLOODBEASTER◊◊ on Jun 3, 2016 14:01:29 GMT -8
Various times in various places in various ways, arrangements made were
played out, and kisses were kissed. In fact it went a little something like this...With Inka,
 
Anselm-
"Zorry Inka, maybe to try again
later, my language is too hard.
I like to talk on more spaze aliens." Inka-
"I am not sad to get no poem,
when I can talk about imporchant
tings with my neeew friend!"
With Vitus,
  
Anselm-
"You are zuper hetero, Vitus-
aren't you? "OK, yes, but I think I understand
why Demetri wants to do this, and...
I think I can pull it off, as it were."
 
Anselm-
"Whoa, I appreciate but Vitus-
it only hass to be a kiss..." "wat"
With Florence,
  
Florence-
"...And that was the third time the
Goose Prince tried to get one over
Anselm- on me. Now Florence don't play
"Haha, it's too funny! with no supernatural waterfowl."
Mn, maybe a good time to try."
 
  
Anselm-
"Ah, um... let's see...
Vhen it's cold and time to eat,
enjoy a special vinter treat, Florence-
green like pines and lots of fun, "Thaaaat does not quite
for holiday time it's number vone?" have the ring of a prophecy."
With Vicier,
  
Anselm-
"Ah, uh... maybe to just Vicier-
zay vee did already..." "Usually I would take advantage
merely to fuck widh you, but you've made
yourzelf unkissable. Bon travail. Agreed."
With Insana,
  
Anselm-
"No, no vay listen... you cann hear he's talking
under 'dhe bass.. he zay-- it's... queen is a robot.
Kill police or 'dhey arrest you for thought crimes.
In Grau. I don't believe but... he belieffs it. Insana-
I don't know vhy... You gotta... respect it." "Oh I respect it alright.
It's Demetri that's fallen
in my esteem."
Anselm-
"Oh yeah, he's total butt-arse. Forget 'dhat guy." Insana-
"Forgotten."
With Blanche Mirsten, CFO of Dragomir Holdings,
  
Anselm-
"Hey toots, it's Andselm. Ah--On...
Anzelm? I dunno, you know what
I mean. I'm here for Dumblebee." Blanche-
"Demetri?"
Anselm-
"Him too."
"So. This is the weirdest bloody company
I've ever worked for, thank you, but I never thought
I'd be put on the spot for a magic kiss. Are you to
turn into a frog that can predict market trends?"
  
Anselm-
"Why does everyone think I'm so into
frogs? It's startin' ta get offensive."
With Vitus again,
  
Vitus-
"...so as you can see from this painting
the Wastropthurlidges have generously allowed
us to view, I was once the kind of fellow to 'hang
out' with artistic and sexually liberated types, so
you it should be perfectly fine to express your
affection with me, ah, vis-a-vis physical
err, touch as it were. With the lips."
Anselm-
"Ahh I only hear 'lips,' 'artistic' and 'sexual,'
but zounds okay to me."
With Dieter Gunnmacher, Field Lieutenant
for Lightning Paramilitary Services,
  
Anselm-
"Haha, yeah man, 'dhanks...
it's a good time for me...
Tschüss, baby." Dieter-
"Didn't Mr. I say we had to kiss too?"
Anselm-
"Huh? I dunno man, it's...
it's kinda not 'dhat kind of relationship I dhink... Too soon."
With Marcus,
  
Marcus-
"Uch? Do what? No. Absolutely not.
I'm not some kind of bloody gerontophile!"
 
Demetri-
"Just how young do you prefer them..? Ugh."
With Helen,
  
Anselm- Helen-
"Zorry, maybe a cheek "That's fine. I'll just tell
kiss don't count... Ummm..." Demetri some Boytown lyrics."
 
Helen-
"They are, pretty much,
the story of my life."
With Vitus...   
Anselm-
"Rehkitz zay be careful
of shoe strings... It makes you
fall in zomething." Vitus-
"Er... *scrib scrib* You get these
from a ... fawn? A young deer?"
Anselm-
"Yes, it's funny, Rotkehlchen sings it in Grau,
maybe Rehkitz likes you more to talk in Glen.
Erzähl die Regeln -- no... Befolgen Sie...
Berühren Sie nicht ein Huf oder -"
He snapped out of his reverie.  
Anselm-
"Oh I'm embarrass. I'm zorry...
The animals are strange. Vitus-
Too much kissing!" "Huh. You've never used the
power this much and whatever, er,
spirits it makes use of... they're upset?"
Anselm-
"Yeah... I make 'dhe rules on my
own, but now 'dhey come to tell
me instead... I don't know it's Vitus-
good to zee 'dhem so much..." "Not sure I understand all that, but
you have my sympathies. I'll let
Demetri know about the situation,
to the best of my understanding."
Anselm-
"Danke, I hope it's not too Vitus-
veird, It's fun to talk to you." "Weird is pretty much normal for now, I look
forward to things settling down, but this was no
problem. You had me worried for a moment
that we'd broken your head."
Anselm-
"Haha, not yet... maybe... Vitus-
...  " "Er... yeh..."
AND so it went! Life's so real, man...
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Post by ◊◊BLOODBEASTER◊◊ on Jun 4, 2016 22:57:27 GMT -8
Boop! Demetri got a text...
FROM: WILHELM
Lieber Demetri,
When you have a moment, I would like to discuss
the special mission our dear Eichel is leading.
Respond at your convenience.
FROM: DEMETRI
It is quite a mission. : ) What would you like to discuss?
FROM: WILHELM
Hm, how to phrase it... Do you think it's a good idea
to give an assignment to a progenitor?
Someone contacted me with concerns, the lad is
engaging in some dangerous behavior...
FROM: DEMETRI
I am not sure I understand. Dangerous kissing?
FROM: WILHELM
Haha, that doesn't sound unpleasant, does it?
I meant more dangerous for himself, fooling around
with heroin and getting himself into trouble.
This isn't in his typical behavior.
I'm not sure if it's related to his work,
but life in Reckenburg is quite leisurely.
FROM: DEMETRI
I don't see how this would be such a problem.
What leads you to believe it's the kissing?
FROM: WILHELM
Perhaps not even the kissing, but just having a task at all.
Someone mentioned he seemed to be bothered by it...
I suppose it's just something to take under consideration.
FROM: DEMETRI
I suppose. Look I know progenitors are unreliable in many
ways, but they are very reliable in others. It's just a matter
of getting to know them. Under what circumstance, do you
suppose, would he be less recalcitrant about this?
FROM: WILHELM
Hm, I wonder if a pep talk could help? How about I check in
on him and let you know what I find out?
FROM: DEMETRI
Good idea. Thank you for staying involved, Wilhelm.
FROM: WILHELM
You're welcome. : ) I'll stay in touch.
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Post by ◊◊BLOODBEASTER◊◊ on Jun 4, 2016 23:08:30 GMT -8
One night when August was doing movie stuff, Anselm stayed in at the bindery alone, deciding whether or not to burn his phone. Wilhelm decided to take his leave of the film crew at the nearby ruins / set, and visit the man. He knocked on the door and spoke. 
Wilhelm-
<<Rap rap, went the marauding movie star.>>
Anselm was listlessly painting whorls on a large sheet of paper. He slumped to the door.
Anselm-
<<Mn, Vilhelm, are you next on the itinerary...>>
Maybe he was joking.
 
Wilhelm-
<<All roads lead to Wilhelm, but they should be
travelled only in joy. What cheer can I bring you?>>
Anselm-
<<Please come in..>>
Maybe he forgot Wilhelm was already invited. He rolled a stool over
to one of the few empty tables, and pulled out a chair for his guest.
Wilhelm accepted it.
Anselm-
<<You've come to bring me cheer? You're
too young to be Worshipper Klarenz...>>
 
Wilhelm-
<<Then the Kastanian version, Devoto Eclancio,
here to pierce your bosom with arrows of love.>>
Anselm-
<<Haha... you and your arrows, always naughty.>>
Anselm-
<<Do I have a reputation for being a sad boy?
My intervention has come and gone by now...>>
 
Wilhelm-
<<The reputation may yet linger. Nonetheless,
only a great fool would see you here alone and
think all is well. Is it still the Demetri nonsense?>>
Anselm-
<<In part, yes... It's not been a good time for me.
I wish he would just leave me alone.>>
Wilhelm-
<<Do you realize that you have authority over him? You could
simply tell him you are done, even tell him not to call.>>
Anselm-
<<Really? I've tried to say I think it's a waste of time...
He never seems to take the hint.>>
Wilhelm-
<<I am certain that is a willful ignorance. If this
still causes you such aggravation, he is forcing you
to take a more bold approach - use your authority.>>
Anselm leaned his chin against his steepled hands.
Anselm- Wilhelm-
<<Vilhelm...>> <<What can I do?>> Anselm snaked his cold fingers out to touch Wilhelm's. Wilhelm
accepted them easily and looked into Anselm's eyes.
Anselm-
<<He's not good, is he?>> Wilhelm-
<<I am not the best to judge. Some
consider me rather wicked.>>
Anselm-
<<What! Who could think that Wilhelm-
of our considerate diplomat?>> <<A few over the years, it is not
important. To me, Demetri seems
no worse than myself, except in
this lack of consideration.>>
Anselm-
<<I don't know, I can't imagine you
doing something like this...>> Wilhelm-
<<Perhaps not. But my cruelties exist,
and have been counted.>>
Anselm-
<<I'm not sure what to do... I wanted to help him but this is just...
It's offensive. Don't you think? Am I being too sensitive?>>
Wilhelm-
<<I don't know... This young generation have very many ideas
about how to care for each other, things like, consent...
I confess I haven't paid much attention to it. It could be good
to perhaps talk to Vitus again!>>
Anselm-
<<Hm. Maybe... You said something about wilful ignorance,
I think it's accurate. But why? What's the purpose?>>
Wilhelm-
<<He believes that he could find something useful in your rhymes,
quite simply. And would rather not deal with the likelihood of
you withholding them.>>
Anselm-
<<He's not done a good job of it then! I haven't wanted to do it
from the start. If there's been any use, it's coincidence.>>
Wilhelm-
<<That's his problem, and soon I should think, completely over.
You are done with this, right, mighty progenitor of the Circle?>>
Anselm-
<<Ha. Yes. You are right... He doesn't think of me that way, does he?>>
Wilhelm-
<<So it seems. I except it will take some time to work through your feelings
about a bad relationship-- friendship or whatever they may be, but perhaps
it would be a good start to say to yourself, and aloud, that it is over. You do
not have to speak with him ever again. His respect matters nothing to you,
if he ceases to be in your life.>>
Anselm-
<<Yes... Ugh... Vilhelm...!>>
He rolled his stool closer, the shoddy old wheels
shrieking. He laid his head on Wilhelm's shoulder.
Anselm-
<<It's childish of me, isn't it... We're always having casual
affairs but perhaps I was just in a strange mood that night.>>
Wilhelm-
<<Oh... It's a new city, a new world. Being open to new
experiences is not a bad thing, just because it went badly.>>
Anselm-
<<I was talking with that Vitus, maybe we were getting a bit pointy-headed
about philosophy. I had the most terrible thought-- he talked me down from
it, I think, but it's just too easy to believe. That first night, it's easy to imagine
oneself as being seduced, a strange man being so solicitous and having a big
conversation, followed by this misery. Is it not just a bit like Von Hechten?>>
Wilhelm-
<<I can understand why you would feel that way. But, no... We talked about
that some, if I remember the cast of villains in that story, Von Hechten was
the mastermind. There were others that willingly went along with bad things,
at worst Demetri would be something like the woman? What was her name?>>
Anselm-
<<Regen?>>
Wilhelm-
<<That's right. And I would be some politely clapping bystander.>>
Anselm-
<<Haha, I suppose it's less the roles in the situation and more... ugh, like
in some Queen's Age proto-psychology sense, recognizing that one's always
seeking out women who resemble their mother and that kind of eerie nonsense.>>
Wilhelm-
<<Ah... Blaming oneself. Well, you learn lessons, think on
what they had in common and avoid such traits in the future.>>
Anselm-
<<What shall I do now? He's the general, isn't he? I want to be part of the
war effort, but it'd be nice to have an army beside me next time I fling myself
into battle.>>
Wilhelm-
<<I suppose there's no harm in coordinating some side
efforts in addition to whatever Demetri is planning.>>
Anselm-
<<I admit I'm feeling a bit less enthusiastic since this recent mess.
I want the city to be safe for you and the children, but the Circle at
large isn't striking a charismatic image for itself...>>
Wilhelm-
<<Ahhh... It could be that most of its charisma died in the first wave.>>
Anselm-
<<I only briefly saw our villain but he was not exactly dashing
either. Just some foolish infant throwing his toys out of the crib.>>
Wilhelm-
<<I'm glad that you wouldn't feel tempted to switch sides then.>>
Anselm-
<<Oh... yes, sorry. I forgot about how that relates to you.
I would never. Even this task, as grueling and strange as
it has been, I was willing to do if it would help matters.>>
Wilhelm clapped his hands.
Wilhelm-
<<Well! Tremendous. Your heart is still in the
right place. All that remains is to gather your spirit.>>
Anselm-
<<Yes? How shall I do that?>>
Wilhelm leaned in close.Wilhelm-
<<Enjoy your life.>> 
Anselm went so limp he fell off his chair. Whump.Wilhelm-
<<Oh no...>> Wilhelm tried to rouse him.
Wilhelm-
<<What happened?>> Anselm's lips parted, and a tiny bird poked its beak out between his lips, and blinked
its beady eyes. KRAK! A tiny deer kicked the door open and trotted up, the little bird
fluttering out of Anselm's mouth to sit nearby, both with judgmental glares. The
creatures spoke with childish voices, the little bird with a bit more attitude than
the carefree fawn.  
Die Tierfreunde -
"Böse Kinder woll' zu täuschen,
schleichen um, wie einen Mäuschen.
Kein mehr Reime für einen Kuss,
wenn die Gefühle sind nicht süss.
Wir sehen Sie aus dem Schatten,
fressen Mäuse wie Teufelkatzen..."
 
Wilhelm-
<<The feelings are sweet! I'm just cheering my dear
friend. You... You aren't going to eat him, are you?>>
Rotkehlchen-
"Wenn Sie fortsetz' mit das Betrug,
wir fressen jede kleine Stück!"
Rehkitz-
"Eh. Na ja...
Du weisst was ist in deinem Herz,
der Verführer wird wissen Schmerz."
And just like that, they blinked out of existence, leaving one to wonder
if they'd really seen it at all... Anselm's eyelids fluttered open. 
Anselm-
<<They're being naughty, aren't they.>> Wilhelm-
<<I feel that I have witnessed
something of grand significance
that I will never understand.>>
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Post by ◊◊BLOODBEASTER◊◊ on Jun 4, 2016 23:25:41 GMT -8
Wilhelm sent a message!WILHELM: Lieber Demetri, ehhh I think it may be the end of
Eichel's mission... There was an ominous occurrence.
I'm not sure how to explain.
DEMETRI: Are you certain? Ominous how? You mean-- do your
best to explain.
WILHELM: Well, in a not completely planned moment, I should
have gotten my own rhyme. Instead... it knocked the lad out and
angry spirits had a word with me.
DEMETRI: Angry sprits? They manifested in such a way that
you could see them without even being a Lepponen?
WILHELM: It would appear so, strange as it sounds.
DEMETRI: And they had words? Did you perchance transcribe them?
WILHELM: Not word for word, but it was hard to forget.
Something to effect of 'we'll eat him if you don't stop the fraud'
and 'the abuser will know pain,' rather disturbing fare.
DEMETRI: Oh... I guess it's at an end. Quite regrettable.
Thank you for your message. It's important at a time like this
for everyone to stay as informed as possible.
WILHELM: Yes... No trouble.
After his meeting with Wilhelm, Anselm replied to the last kissing schedule, filled with various human Dragomir employees.FROM: ANSELM -
Stop this! You do not care for me or my emotion. You ignore me
and give me a stupid work. Tell to kiss strangers instead
because you hate to kiss me! I had a good friendship for you
and now I wish that I did not do it. I'm going to fight Badboy
do by myself. I'm over with the circle and I do not like this!!!
You killed my feelings and I want to be alone!
With an injured heart,
Anselm
FROM: DEMETRI -
I'm very sorry to hear that. As the situation stands,
it will probably be best for you to retain your formal
affiliation with the Circle, to avoid conflicts. After the
fight is over, extricating yourself formally will be much
easier. I only did what I thought was right and it may
yet prove to have been the right thing to do, but as of
your message it will always be something I have a
measure of regret for. Good bye.
FROM: ANSELM -
Yes, good bye.
Miserable and unlucky,
Anselm
♪♫
" Weinen eine Träne in das Kissen,
geb einen Pause für den Lippen.
Keine mehr Alpträume, es war das Ende,
kein mehr küssen seltsame Fremde. "
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Post by ◊◊BLOODBEASTER◊◊ on Jun 30, 2016 0:54:21 GMT -8
Some time before that...SPEED DATING - THE SPY WHO LOVED ME
One night at the film studio / abandoned church, August and Babette were
chilling on the curb, talking about a possible rewrite in her character's backstory
and drinking some boozy blood out of a bottle in a brown paper bag. Then a
motorrad lazily pulled to the curb and Anselm took off his helmet to say hi.
His demeanor was less than amazing...
Anselm-
"Oh... Babette, I don't know you are here."
Booooop-- his phone chimed.
Anselm-
"No no no... I cann't do it again..."
August stood up from the curb a little wobbly on his feet.  
August-
"Aww Ans. Are ya okay? Do ya need a hug? We're just talking film ya know."
Babette took a final sip of blud. 
Babette-
"You look like you need a drink, too. It's the good stuff."
She hopped upright and shook the bag-wrapped bottle enticingly.Anselm accepted the hug, and while still embracing him, reached out for the bottle and swigged it over August's shoulder.
Anselm-
"Oh man, too many crap dates. It's boring now."
 
August-
"Noo Annns don't say that, me hambalos. Ya know we are here for ya.
Ya just gotta get back on the door... horse. Ya know what I mean.
Juss say no to Demis."
 
Babette-
"That's the saddest thing I've heard tonight. Romance should never be boring."
  
Babette shuffled to them and threw her arms around both of her vampire bros, squeezing them in her spidery grip.
Babette-
"Wait. Demis?! Is he still making you kiss people? Want me to change August's face
and make him look like you? He can go in your place. How good are you at improv?"
Anselm accepted the double-hug eagerly.
Anselm-
"Awww...  It's too sweet to even make a sexy joke."
He raised his eyebrows at Babette's suggestion.
Anselm-
"Whoa! Huh... I don't know if it's too much, Engelsdorff is vaiting for me..."
 
August-
"I dunno... Okay I guess. It's just a lot of Vs and ya, right?"
 
August-
"Lawdamimbo! A date with Englesdorff?! She's cute as heck! How can
that be boring? Ya lucky son of a gun."
Englesdorff? Englessdorff? Oh, yes, the punky one.
Babette-
"Well, she's no Ausmiller ..."
 
Babette-
"But I guess I see your point. Heh. Heheh. Tell her this rhyme:
You will meet a man
with a bouquet around his neck
who works in cinema
and is named August.
He's a great guy
so go to a concert with him sometime.
but make it rhyme."
Anselm-
"Aw, Babette... "
Anselm-
"Humm... you like Engelsdorff, August? I already zend Darren to a date for me,
but if you look like me it's better... Cann you do an Anselm accent?"
August-
"Ya sweeter than cherry pie and a sundae, Babs. Though me shirt is more
of a rose garden then bouquet. Why haven't ya become a professional poet?
Ya got serious talent there, sugar."
 
August-
"She's mighty fine. Heh alright! If Daz can do it, why not? My name is
Anzelm, I am zo pleased to meet vith you, ya? What do ya think?"
It wasn't fantastic.
 
Babette-
"Oooooh are there TWO Anselms here? Heheh. It sure sounds like it."
Babette-
"Wait. Who was the ... the lucky one who got Darren?"
Anselm-
"Whoa, pretty good August! Maybe you zay you vant to practice Antearctos slang
because it's on trend. Bombaroo!"
Anselm-
"Haha Darren goes on a date vith a random lady, don't do too good but he
got a cheek kiss maybe. It's a good action for him."
Anselm-
"Vait, if August becomes Anselm, vhat do I be? August? Oooh..."
August
"Heh! Yeah and ya have been spending way too much time with me.
I gotta rub off on ya sometime right?"
August-
"Nice one, Dazza. He needs a lot of help poor fella. The girls just don't get him."
  
August-
"Lawdamimbo! Ya will be me? Now Anselm has to be able to do me! Can ya?"
Babette-
"And I can be Dazza ..."
It was all falling together now. But the whole plan hinged on whether Anselm could say Hamballos with a proper twang.Babette-
"Go ahead, Darling. Speak. Enthrall us."
Anselm-
"Ooh yeah, listen closely--"
 
Anselm
"Hey hambalos, my name is August and I make a good movie
about six-gun cowboy ninjas fight bad Roo-bandits!
Woo, I come from Antearktos, it's a good time for me!"
Anselm
" 'Dhen I shoot a gun into 'dhe air. Ooh if vee do, put on a cool hat first."
 
August-
"That's me all over, Ans! Lawdamimbo!"
August-
"Fancy ya say that. Looky here!" August scrambled around looking for something before leaping on a black mound. 
August-
"Taa daaa!"
Babette-
"I don't know if it's the blood talking, but this is the best idea we've ever had.
I need a mirror, Gentlemen. To the bathroom! This ... this place has a bathroom, right?"
She didn't actually know.Babette-
"Any reflection will do. Also, do you have a picture of Darren?"
Anselm-
"Yayyy, it's going to be fun!"
Anselm-
"Yeah I got a picture on 'dhe phone, I don't know how to do it."
Anselm-
"Umm... don't look too close on pictures gallery."
August-
"What in heck are ya gonna do looking like Dazza, Babs?"
 
August-
"A man's picture gallery is a private sanctuary. Only enter if ya
eyes are ready for it hehehe."
Babette-
"I'm going to rock. Out. Don't worry. The skeletons in your phone
are safe with me, too."
 Babette knelt beside the murky pit and contemplated the reflections. August to Anselm. Anselm to August. Their skins were naught but a veneer. OooOOooooOOooh. She pawed at their images.  
Babette-
"Gentlemen. Behold. You're reborn. And I. Am. A rockstar."
Near Babette was a pit in the earth, full of murky, yet reflective water...
Pawing teased them out, and she pulled off the switcheroo. This left the men with no reflections. The photo was different. It kinda looked like she pulled the image out of the phone in the form of a gnome-like pixel marionette that turned into static in her hand, then disappeared as she applied it. She didn't happen to check her reflection as she stood up.
Anselm-
"Yay! Look-- it's me again!
And me! I'm tall! Wooo!
I'm a fancy 'RooBoy! Ahaha,
I vill get every girl."
Anselm-
"..."
  
Anselm-
"Oh wow, look at 'dhis! It's Darren!
So real life!"
He leaned in to Ans-gust.
Anselm-
"..."
 
August-
"Lawdamimbo! I've shrunk! I'm Anselm!! Like a cat into a canary."
August-
"All the girls? I wish!"
August-
"OMG! DAZ! Me hero! AMAZING!! Ya the splitting image!!"
To Aug-Selm.
Babette-
"Right-o, mates. We're just three buds having fun.
Where's your date, Anselm? Hope it ain't nowhere
around paparazzi. I hate the attention."
Babette had not spent much time observing Darren's behavior.  
Babette-
"If anyone tries to take my picture, I'll do this."
Babette-
"But not in front of your date, because that would be rude and offputting."
Anselm-
"Ooh, Anselm body is not too very short, right?
Just 'petite' ... yeah?"
 
Anselm-
"Zo, date's at a fancy club 'Beryl' -- here, August you take my phone and
haff fun to answer ten 'tousand messages."
  
Anselm-
"And take motorrad, it's more realistic! You can drive?
It's not too hard, it's like bicycle vith no pedals."
Anselm-
"And vhat do vee do, Dazzle? Maybe vee go on a town as rock star boys?
I von't ruin your good reputation, August. Don't vorry..."
August-
"Ya ain't short at all! Na uh! Just shorter than me. Ya get used to seeing
things from a certain level. Ya a handsome devil Ans, I promise."
August-
"I looks edgy as heck too!"
August-
"Shootfire! How does ya phone even pick em all up?"
August-
"A beautiful dame and a swanky club awaits me!"
Ans-gust hopped onto the motorrad with a little too much gusto, almost falling off.
August-
"How do ya turn it on?"
Babette-
"Yeeeeeaa! Let's go to a club and get knackered! It's the only way to live unlife."
She frowned a bit at the motor-rad."They don't come with training wheels, do they? Lucky you have vampire balance.
And healing. Be sure to tell me everything, okay? Oh, I'm so happy for you.
Your first date under cover ..."
Anselm-
"Haha, it's too easy, don't vorry. Just push like 'dhis--" The motorcycle roared to life and jerked forward a bit. 
August-
"Woah! Easy there!!"
Aug-selm only just managed to stay on. He griped the bars in a death-like vice.
Anselm-
"If you get in an accident, don't vorry. It's hard to die from it."
Anselm-
"Oooh have too much fun for me, you do vhat you want vith Anselm...
no... problem... Huh huh."
Anselm-
"Oh, oh um, in case it comes up..." He whispered to August. "I kiss Engelsdorff before and um... chest..."
 
Anselm-
"Okay, ahaha... yeah, haff fun!!"
August-
"Nah, I'll err keep it as PG as I can. Don't uhh get too carried away with me face. Heh."
August-
" Ya have a bunch of fun too!! Take care of Dazza for me. Make sure uh she... I mean he doesn't do something too silly."
With that Ans-gust roared wobbling off in the motored, almost crashing into a dumpster on his way out. He seemed to right himself and was off on the road to spy-hood.Anselm cruised down the street on his motorrad, a dark, rain-slicked
city glistening like neon tubes in an infinitely deep cosmos. He wobbled
on the bike, a little out of practice it seemed. Driving up to the Club Beryl,
a muscleboy valet looked excited at the possibility of parking that machine.
 
Valet-
"*mouths* I can help!"
'Anselm' struggled to keep it in balance, he was finding balance a little
difficult especially when stopping. Who knew? It looked so easy normally.
 
Anselm?-
"Sshh! Yeah... I mean vhat? Yah! Please!"
The guy was patient.
Valet-
"Your keys! I can park for you, no problem!"
'Anselm' took the keys from the machine and dangled them towards the valet. "Oh right.. heh. Right. Do ya know how
the stick thingy works? I can't do it. Heh." 
Valet-
"No problem, and a pleasure, sir! Here's your ticket."
He wasted no time making off with Anselm's ride.
Which allowed him to just walk up in the club. There were wall to wall
fancy conventionally sexy people, blue lasers, and club bangers on the
system. If anything, the music shaded a bit strip club techno.
Coat check accepted the jacket and he was free.
Okay! First stage was passed, he was a little more sure on his feet without the
large engine between his legs. He tried to keep it cool as he looked for someone
non-flaming. It wasn't as easy to see through the crowds, Anselm had a slight
height disadvantage."Ve vill find her! Hook or crook."
The speakers sang, "boogiehouse whore boogie house whore,
rockin' that body for a damnation score" and the crowd burned
in response. He was close to wondering if she had stood him up,
when...  
Engelsdorff-
"*dance trance*"
'Anselm' gulped. Would she be mad if he tried to break her dance trance?
He decided not to risk it just yet. It was time to let his boogie out instead.   
  
Engelsdorff-
"*dance trance wears off*"
  "Nice jams ya? Gluten tag! It's Au..selm!" 
Engelsdorff-
"So scheint es. Sie klingen seltsam. Geht es dir gut?"
  "..." "...Ya?" 
Engelsdorff-
"Would you prefer to practiss your Glennisch?"
 "Oh! Lawdy yes! I mean. Too much times vith
housemate. It would be good to get better ya?"  "How iz var going? Did you hear about badboy? I tear him new one! Ya!"  
Engelsdorff-
"Ja, dat was very well done. Myzelf, I am..."
Engelsdorff-
"You know, enough about work. How do you
like dis job to kiss, huh? Who habe you kissed?"
 "I would like to fight better. It makes me do the drugs ya. That damn
Demetri hass me kissing everyone. Umm like Doll-linger.. Him...
Umm Ausmiller? Ya. All everywhere, it's amazin' I have lip at all..." "Zo this club ya? This is ya scene? Have you
ever tried Antearctan dancing? It's zo hip." A sheistiness crept into her expression.
Engelsdorff-
"I do not know about dis Antearctos danz.
I am more interested in Antearctos love.
It iss a shame dere are no strong Antie man
here for me to kiss und to hold. Don't you think?"
 "Well..." "Me?! Uh uh you mean Augusst?"  "But ya came here to kiss me... Anselm. For ze war. Zorry."
Engelsdorff-
"It is sad ve already kiss before, zo boring, huh?
Hoo-hum... How do you vant to do dis?"
"He didn't zay... I... Vell it might be a little different zis time ya?
Are ya sure? I mean. If no umm humbledumff last time then why
this time? Zo just on the lips? Ya?" 'Anselm leaned in to plant the kiss and hopefully come up with a poem. One that Engledörff liked.  
Engelsdorff-
"Here ve go, zo boring ve kiss..."
Kissing happened! She went in with that dead eyed look,
but then dropped some creezy deep tongue action while
rubbing his back., then stepped away with dull eyes again.
 
Engelsdorff-
"De worst. Terrible."
'Anselm' was glad he no longer needed to breath or he would have died again. "Like worst ever? I'm that bad?"  "Zorry! Lawdy. Ummm I guess that
means no poem thingy. Zo there's that."
Engelsdorff-
"Siiigh, Vell, I guess we habe to try again zen."
Engelsdorff-
"..."
Is she trying to get one over? What is this? She went all
deep smooch again, grabbing his buns and giving him the
business for hella, then stepped away with dull eyes again.
Engelsdorff-
"I do hope dat vas good enough to get de poem. If I am
too despaired, zen I won't even habe de energie to go get
Antearctos kisses after ve are done, you know?"
'Anselm' was more than a little flustered but he finally got the drift.  "Lawdy ya sure do kiss..." "Ya onto us aren't ya? Sorry. I guess we had too much drunk person
and we thought we'd give him a break from the kissing. It's wearing
him out ya know? And ya pretty cute. He was pretty keen on Demetri.
I'm sorry we tricked ya."  "He told me to say ..." 'Anselm' scrounged around until he found a wilted piece of paper and read it out with poor pronunciation."Out in der Dunkelheit, der Nacht. Wasser fließt , das ewige Licht. Schwere Preis kommt für eine solche Notlage ."
Engelsdorff-
"For shame on you all. Augoost, how could you?"
Engelsdorff-
"I vill punish Anselm by kissing his face."
AND SO ENDETH THE SUBTERFUGE!
Meanwhile, August's face and Ostensible Darren were out on the town and up to no good... 
Anselm-
"You bad varmints, get offa my property!
Raccoon-
" *unimpressed chitter* "
Anselm-
"Siiiigh, even as a 'Roo boy I don't
impress 'dhe critters..."
Anselm-
"Hey ladies, it's an Antearktos vild boy for you.
How do you like it? It's cool style vhere I am from.
I killed 40 Sealandia ninjas for my honor."
Anselm-
"Hey Darren... vant to kiss? Real Darren don't let me.
It's very experimental and avant-garde."
Anselm-
"I didn't know it vass a cop!
Vhy cops vear yellow here? So veird!
Drive faster! Maybe he don't speak Antearktan!"
Babette-
"Just give them a firm kick - it works on rabbit gangsters. See ..."
...
Babette-
"I can't do it. They're too cute."
  
Babette-
"Laaaadieees, hello! I play a guitar!"
Babette-
"I ... do play a guitar, right?"
Babette-
"Ooooh! Let's give the paparazzi something to photograph! <3"
Babette-
"Wait. No. No. I'm sorry. It's like kissing a brother. Maybe if you put on a pair of sunglasses?"
Babette-
"Hold on to your funny hat! I'm going to FLOOR it!"
Babette-
"Wait! Is that ME in the mirror?! Have I been Babette the whole time?
 
Babette-
"Hehehe! Can't arrest dead women! Catch us if you can,
you walking rubber duckies!"
Babette-
"That was awful, but I couldn't think of anything more yellow
than a bath duck, Darling. Weeee!"
And thus did those varmints return to that muddy wasteland...
Anselm-
"Heyyyy August, vee don't get in trouble.
It's fine. How is 'dhe date, you have lucky times?"
 
Babette-
"Noooo trouble at all! Ehehe. Heheh. Oh come on, come on!
Tell us everything!"
August-
"There ain't nothing on me face right?!"
August-
"Lawdy! Ya both look as guilty as two puppies with a a mouthful of
mamma's homemade pie. Ya didn't doing anything too weird right?
Ya didn't visit a Sealandian bar and declare war? Oh! If there's anything
wrong with ya bike... The valet did it."
Anselm-
"Nope! Vee are strictly good. Uh, uh...
Zo... you haff a girlfriend now?
Or vait, I do? Uh oh. Engelsdorff isn't
my girlfriend now, right? I'm not ready."
Babette-
"I can't lie to him anymore, Anselm! August, Darling ... you may be married
to Darren now under the eyes of the law ;-; It was an accident!
We were drunk on tipsy lady blood."
August-
"LAWDY LAWD GUUUYYSSS!"
August-
"Hang on a tic!"
August-
"Very funny! Ya never even looked like him. Ha! We were joshing with ya!"
August-
"She was totally convinced by me brilliant acting.... For about five minutes.
Heh. Ahhh but we did uhh hook up a little... hehehe. Though I hope it was
cause it was me and not cause I look like you. Heh. I dunno, I hope so."
Anselm-
"Huhuhu... cool."
Anselm-
"Maybe you haff a girlfriend now!
Ask her for a date, pretend you don't know
who is Anselm, huh, I don't know him.
Or pretend it's me pretending to be you..."
Anselm-
"Whoa... too much confusing."
Babette-
"Soooo ... do you have any more assignments, Anselm?
Anything I can help with? Heheh. Oh, who am I kidding?
I don't need a disguise to meet people."
Babette-
"Not that there's anything wrong with that, August!"
Babette-
"But the question still stands. When will you be finished
with this ... ugh ... duty?"
August-
"it's alright Ans. I get ya. I'll just ask her out with me own face sometime!"
August-
"It wasn't like that that ya know. I was helping out Ans...
It was a good idea.. kinda..."
August-
"Besides look at that mug! I'm one good looking hambalos!"
August-
"Yeah!"
August-
" Yeah... Ooh! Maybe I could be you and tell Demi where to stick it!"
Anselm-
"Aw, danke for helping me you two--"
Anselm-
"Whoa-- stick vhat? I mean-- ohhhh... figurative."
Anselm-
"It's too zad, I don't like to kiss everyone.
I mean, I do, but not for vork. *sigh*
It's not too lazy to quit a job, right?
I vant to do a good vork, but it's too much trouble."
August-
"Is he paying ya? No! This ain't work this is bullying plain
and simple, Ans. It's nothing about lazy. Ya gotta take care of
ya self and that includes ya feelings. Ya don't owe him nothing!
Ya a warrior! Ya've done more to hurt Badboy than Demi!"
Anselm-
"Ah... Best of friends for me. *sighhh*
Danke for everything.
I vill missing vearing a cool hat."
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Post by ◊◊BLOODBEASTER◊◊ on Jun 30, 2016 0:55:16 GMT -8
∆§Indea§∆ DKender ((Wanted to post that but it didn't quite have an ending so I did a quick line from Anselm, does that sound good or would you like to add more to it?))
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>>
" "Er... yeh..."
It's too sweet to even make a sexy joke."