Esther

Esther nodded as she straightened her back. "Y-yeh. I drank too fast." She wiped her face with the  back of her hand and turned to Genji, her cherub-like face pursed together in a pout. "What! What's so funny! You're the one throwing around compliments..."

She turned away, lips still pursed. "At least... I mean - I thought you were commenting on my body and I didn't know how to handle that." Esther sighed, she had realised she had been mistaken with his next words. How silly of her. Esther wasn't really the type people 'fell' for. She was more the type people considered a sister, caregiver, or best friend. And frankly. Esther was fine with that. She wasn't actively seeking such relationships. She didn't like the idea of being bound to one person.

"You're so technical Genji. Geez..." Esther turned her eyes back to him, her expression softening. "I... guess you can ignore the awkward comments about your bone structure then." she offered him a smile. "I suppose it's a bit of a weird thing to notice about someone, even if it is true, huh?"

Esther straightened her back, reaching over to grasp Genji's hand. She offered it a reassuring squeeze before letting go. "At least I made you laugh! Mission of the day, a success."

Esther smiled as she shifted to a more comfortable position, pulling her legs underneath her. "Perhaps you're right Genji. Sometimes, I see what everyone else is doing...and I guess I am comparing myself by the wrong standards. I compare myself to the frontliners in a combat and tactic standpoint and I feel as though I'm useless, but..." Her thumbs traced the rim of her cup once more. 

"But..." her voice fell quiet. "I should really look at things from different perspectives. I am no doubt far more motherly than many of them. I think... many of the frontliners are children who have lost their way and I just..." Esther bit her lip. It'd do her no good to get over emotional now. "I want to help. I want to help everyone. But you're right Genji." The corners of her lips tweaked up into the faintest of smiles. Esther shut her eyes as the gentle breeze picked up lilac hair, which danced around her stationary form. She sat so very still for a few minutes it was almost as though she were a statue. 

"Genji..." She said, breaking her silence. "You're a wise man. Thank you."

The next words he awkwardly uttered caused Esther's eyes to rise to meet his. Her gaze questioning and curious, the flush of embarassment rising to her cheeks as she for one moment, misinterpreted his kind words. "I look like w-what now!?" She glanced down at her petite form, not exactly 'womanly' by any means, but not childish either. Esther never really thought much about her own body, her curves or the sway of her hips... that sort of thing seemed... strange to her. "I uh.. uhm...." She smoothed down her clothes, how was one supposed to respond in such a situation?

"Thank you."

Now what? Was the correct response to compliment him in return? "Youlookeverybitawomantometoo!" She quickly blathered out. Her eyes widened as she realized her mistake. "I mean- uh. A man! Yeh that! You look. I mean, you have.. you have a nice jawbone and I- ahh...." her eyes danced over his casually dressed form. "Collarbone? I uhm..." She turned to her tea and quickly downed the last of it to avoid digging herself into a further hole. 

Bad idea.

She started choking, tears in her eyes as she lowered the cup and hit her sternum hard with a balled fist.

Slowly, and awkwardly Esther managed to make her way through the crowd, well...around the crowd. She kept to the outer circles this time. Sure it took longer but this way at least... she wouldn't accidentally bump into anyone. She saw a group of pirates who were rather...rambunctious and loud. She made sure to stay far away from them. Then that very tall man with no facial features just white... Esther shivered. He was scary. A few others scattered around the place...then Calrex....then...

Esther stopped in front of him. His head was hung low and he was muttering something in Japanese. Esther wasn't that astute when it came to his native language, hell..it was amazing that she managed to splutter out whatever nonsense she did. "Family...right?" Esther asked softly as she carefully broached the last few steps. She had caught the tail end of his mutterings and whilst she didn't understand it all, the one word stood out. Esther kneeled down in front of him and carefully placed the drinks on the floor next to the chair he sat on. "You miss them?" She asked softly. It was a guess, whenever anyone spoke about such a thing, they were either damning them, or lamenting over them and Genji didn't seem like the vindictive type.

Her hand reached out to gently rub his back, whilst the other went and picked up one of the two bright orange cream covered drinks. She urged it into his hands. "Here. drink something, I'm sure it'll make you feel better."  She laughed. "Sugar always makes people feel better, right? This looks incredibly sweet. Course... you're probably sweet enough without it!" Esther wasn't very good at comforting people, she never knew what to say or how to fix things. So instead she spluttered awkward compliments or phrases that often didn't make sense.

Esther tilted her head to the side, buting her lower lip. The jokes weren't working. "I'm sure many people miss their families and friends. If you like. I can be your family?" Esther asked, after all... she had taken on the role of mother and caretaker for others, maybe she could do something similar for Genji, and if not family then friends, surely.

A small smile on her face as she picked up her own drink and clinked it lightly against his. "Kanpai!?" The liquid sloshed but didn't spill but Esther flinched as though it had. She gave a sigh of relief. "I thought for sure that was going to spill all over me and create a wet and sticky mess!" She said with a laugh.

Genji wasn't laughing.

Esther frowned.

"Hey. Did you want to go? You don't have to stay here on my behalf. If you need some time to yourself I understand."

"Lack of preparation? Well, I suppose those who are on the frontlines or are busy may not have had time to do such things. Course... I wasn't really doing anything." Esther scratched her cheek, laughing awkwardly at her admission. "I mean... I told myself I would never pick up a weapon. So I guess I'd be useless in the frontlines. I don't even know what floors they've unlocked. Ahaha...ha...aha...*ahem*." She cleared her throat loudly and started tugging on her lilac locks. "I was just spending some time with the children on the second floor. I want them to experience a normal childhood."

Esther wasn't sure how well Calrex would take the information, she knew she had been chastised in the past for her choices. Called useless, foolish... and a waste of space. What good was she if she wasn't fighting to get out like everyone else? Sure it got to her at times... but Esther wasn't one to force herself to change into something she was uncomfortable with. Even with her awkward banter, Calred complimented her. "Thank you!" She stooped tugging on her hair and instead crossed her arms, just to stop herself from fiddling. "I appreciate it!"

A small silence fell between the blunette and the lilac angel, and Esther felt she had to fill it with something. "So uh.. you said you were distracted with other aspects of the game?" Esther asked, "Does that mean you're a scout? Or work in a profession?" She gasped. "Oh! OH! Are you a frontliner?"

Before he could reply however, it seemed as though the host began to hand out raffles and prizes. They were all awarded to people who were no doubt stronger than her. She wondered if the game had some sort of system where it'd pass out items to those who'd use them. Esther felt a tad disheartened that she didn't get any, but at the same time. She knew she wouldn't use the strange weapon that sounded as though it'd attach itself to her. What a scary thought! Course..if she had something better, maybe.... just maybe she'd be able to help more on the higher floors.

Esther bit her lip, and shuffled her feet. "Hey uhm... Calrex... what are the frontliners ....what would it be like for...uhm someone with no weapons?"

Her heart was pounding hard and fast against her chest. Was she seriously considering such a thing? To be up there with such brave people? and to what? Heal them? Surely they'd be able to do such things on their own? Esther took a step backward, suddenly not so sure of herself anymore. She glanced around for Genji, hoping he'd be able to offer her some sort of smile to help her,  a nod of the head. Anything.

@Genji  @Calrex

Esther frantically waved her hands back and forwards in a futile attempt to stop Calrex from apologising. "oh no, no, please! It's near impossible to be wary of the entirety of your surroundings. This place is far too lively for that. I was just being awkward. Ahah..." Esther forced a laugh as her hands fell to the hem of her dress and scrunched it up into a little nervous ball.

"I'm fine, really. It's not like it hurt or anything! One of the positive things about being trapped in here I guess."  Esther held out her left foot and gave it a small wiggle. "I mean, I could dip my lil' toe right on into a pool of lava and not feel any pain, sure it'd be hot. But not 'oh my gosh this is lava' type hot."

Esther returned his bow with a small curtsey of her own. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Calrex. My name is Esther." 

Her hands slowly released their death-like grip from the hem of her dress as she felt less awkward. The woman made a note that Genji must be feeling somewhat similar right about now. She turned over her shoulder and offered him a confident smile as if to tell him everything would be alright. Esther gestured toward Genji. "This is he, Genji I mean... I was about to go get us some drinks."

Esther turned her green eyes back toward the azure man. "It may not be a costume...but I quite like your suit. You look handsome." Esther commented, giving Calrex a nod with her chin. "Are costumes something you don't like? Or do you prefer a more formal appearance?" She pat down her own dress. "I haven't really had the chance to dress up like this, so I thought it'd be fun, but the only person I really knew here is Genji, and I mean..." She glanced away, feeling a little silly admitting it. "Despite how easily it seems I talk to people I feel a little awkward around crowds. I guess I just end up rambling or saying the wrong thing. Yanno?"

@Genji  @Calrex

Esther jumped forward when he started coughing, reaching out she placed her hands on either of his shoulders to steady him. "Hey... hey are you ok?" He gave her a small nod followed by a wheeze. He certainly didn't sound like he was ok. "Genji..." The way she said his name was akin to a mother chastising their child. Stern yet filled with concern. "Did you need to sit down?" He shook his head and instead brushed her away. Esther took a step back and allowed him to breath and fix himself up.

She bit her lower lip trying to figure out exactly what went wrong. Was it something she had said? He lived in Shibuya and yet he barely remembered the name of one of the main lines that ran through the central hub of the station. Heck...even Esther knew and she had only been there once before. "You know..." She began, thoughtfully, trying to ease the tension he must feel. "I've had my days where I never wanted to deal with people... or leave the room." Esther offered him a warm smile. "You're one of those Hikikikohiki... err hikiko... hikikem...hikikomori people right? You can't deal with social things?" She didn't wait for an answer instead she smiled brightly at him. "Well. I think you're doing fantastic Genji! You're at a party! You're talking to people! That's more than I can say for some people. There is this girl, Mari... I think even in Aincrad she never leaves her little tent."

Esther began talking in her usual fast paced breathless bursts. "She was... or is... I think still is an orange player. I think she had like the most kills on that monumenet of life...it's a scary thought isn't it? But she's... I think she's just sick of the world around her, I mean, she always protected me - she even had me lead around by a chain, with the cutest of collars-" Esther paused and pointed to her bare neck. "It had a little heart shape and everything"

She stopped when she realised what it sounded like then quickly added. "Oh OH OH! No no no, see i suggested it! Because she seemed like the type of person who would want that but I mean she actually didn't care either way and she took her role of protector very seriously she would snap at any orange players who'd approach me and she always had my best interests at heart and I mean, I'd probably still be hanging around her if it wasn't for this whole..ahaha... you know what..." Esther took a step back, feeling silly for trying to explain all this to Genji.

"M-Maybe I should just get you a drink after all! Punch? Yeh I'll get us some of that..."

Esther took two steps back only to trip over her own oversized wings. In what could only be displayed as a comical series of arm swaying Esther tried to regain her balance but to no avail, instead, she tumbled backwards and onto the poor sod who had just wandered into the great hall.

"OOf!"

She had fallen back onto a man dressed entirely in azure.

Quickly realizing her faux paux Esther scrambled off the man. "oh gosh... Oh gosh... I'm so sorry, are you alright?"

@Genji @Calrex

Her hair had been ruffled and the small glowing halo that floated above her head wobbled with the sudden interaction. She pursed her lips, confused at his admission in wanting to see her wear the angelic attire all the time. The light feathery wings fluffed behind her and a handful of downy, small feathers flew off of them and floated around her, others were carried across the room. "As much as I  enjoy this outfit, I think it may be a little impractical for day to day use." 

As Genji pulled away Esther shrugged, taking the compliment as it was. "I don't know if I could say the same about yours. I'd struggle to know which hand to shake or put drinks in or-" She paused, and quickly changed her tone. "I mean.. I'm sorry I didn't mean it like that, I just - I liked your costume its just..aha....I guess costumes are impractical huh?" 

Esther glanced over at a rather tall man who had an entire white face mask on. "Like that man, I wonder how well he can see out of that mask?"

The conversation shifted, and Genji mentioned that he hadn't seen many pumpkins.

"Really?" Esther tilted her head to the side, a confused frown on her lips. "I hear that Shibuya goes absolutely insane for Halloween. I mean.. I've only seen pictures and videos from friends who go to the festivities but-" Esther paused. "Do you not go outside?" She asked, to her, it was an innocent question. Foot in mouth syndrome. The woman had it for sure. "I was planning on going there for Halloween next year. We were going to dress up and wander the streets! I hear there are thousands of people all dressed up and having fun!" Esther grinned, "You should come with me! I'd really like that."

Esther shifted beside him, choosing to lean against the wall so she could people watch as she conversed with him. "I'll even teach you how to carve a pumpkin." Her elbow lightly grazed his, and she used that chance to nudge him further. "I'll even come with band-aids at the ready in case you hurt yourself. Esther leaned forward so she could peer back into his face. "Shibuya isn't that big. It's just a sorta square." She traced a lop-sided square in the air. "If you live along the Yamanote line you're easy to find!"

He didn't need to mention his name for Esther to know who it was. The way he spoke with a formal inflection, the calm and airy tone.  It was Genji. So clearly and unabashedly Genji. Esther's smile widened as her eyes lit up in recognition. "Genji!" She exclaimed in a voice that radiated a loving warmth that she held for all of her friends. Despite such comradery being so few and far between. "I'm so happy to see you!"

Esther went to shake his hand, then became horribly confused as to which one to shake. He had six of them! "Err...." She went to the left one, then to the right. "Uhm!" No wait, the top left one? No..no maybe the bottom left? Oh dear.. She seemed a tad frazzled, reaching out for an arm then deciding against it only to do the same thing seconds after to the next.

She gave a small sigh of relief when a swirl of blue hexagons engulfed his character and he once again, had two arms, and thus..two hands. Esther promptly grabbed his right hand warmly between two of her own and gave it a tight squeeze. 

"I'm honestly so happy to see you here." She gushed. "I didn't think I'd meet anyone I knew, I just - well you were by yourself and ah..." She let go of his hand and offered him an awkward laugh. ""I didn't like seeing someone by themselves... I thought it must be lonely especially at a party like this."

She shuffled her feet awkwardly as she kicked at the ground, suddenly feeling a little silly for not recognising that it was Genji sooner. "Oh!" She shot her face up to stare into his amber coloured gaze. "I was rambling again, I-" She paused, just for a moment.

He was intently staring at her.

Was it something she said? Did she have something on her face? Esther didn't know it, but the slightest tinges of rosy pink filled her cheeks in the presence of his heated gaze.

"I really... like hearing what you have to say about Halloween." She began, "I mean - I don't know a lot about it myself. I grew up in the country so we didn't exactly celebrate the big to-do of it all. Just a lot of pumpkins." Esther laughed, feeling a little more at ease. "So many of them! Ah!" She rose her arms out wide before him. "Some were like...as big as this! I couldn't even carry them!"

With her arms still out wide she continued, jumping subjects as she had the tendency to do. "Genji, do you like my costume? Even if it doesn't scare people away? Should I have gone with something creepy?"

@Genji

Esther wore a pair of large wings, at least thrice the size of the girl they trailed behind. They were bright, white and fluffy. The feathers both large and small were puffed up and looked almost like a floating cloud. As Esther walked..barefoot toward the mansion tiny downy feathers trailed off and gently floated along an unseen breeze. A floating golden halo sat eloquently above her head providing a warm glow and light to Esthers small rounded face beneath.  She wore a modest dress, not unlike her regular white cotton one. Whilst most people would take the opportunity to bare some skin at parties Esther didn't really see the point. Not that she'd look down at anyone for doing so. Her own dress had a small v-neck, but it was modest enough to keep her assets in place. It was an embroided white with shimmering diamonds along the collar, they dotted her torso in floral patterns. The sleeves were short and lined with down feathers. The bottom of the dress, made with thick velvet dropped down past her feet and trailed along behind her. The hem was also lined with down.

"This must be it..." Esther whispered to herself as she approached the rusted gates to see a player...or NPC standing before her. A shadowy figure with a pumpkin for a head loomed over her. Glowing eyes and mouth twisted into a grin which made Esther shrink back.

What a nice costume! It is great to see you here at this event. Here's your item for showing and I hope you enjoy yourself."

"O-oh! Thank you!" Esther quickly gave a low bow of her head to the NPC as she was greeted and given an item. So it was the right place. The figure gestured toward the mansion behind and Esther followed the path forward.

She pressed her weight against the large doors and they opened inward to...

To.. a literal party. Esther blinked. Surprised and daunted by the sheer amount of people, laughter and banter that greeted her. "Whoa...." She breathed. There were so many intricate costumes and people. Most were paired off or in larger groups. The woman was tempted to head over to the table that housed a large amount of food, but something else caught her eye.

A rather scary... no horrifying creature standing off to the side. She did not initially recognise the man was indeed her new found friend, Genji. She just saw a lone figure standing away from the crowd, her own uneasiness around such a large amount of people kept her away from the mingling and laughing people. More so... she saw someone standing alone, at a party. And to her, she wanted to help.

"Hello." Esther side-stepped into the six-armed mans line of vision. "That's..." She tried to word it nicely. "A interesting costume." She offered him a laugh. "I think you may be scaring off the other party-goers though. Still..." Esther turned over her shoulder to see everyone. "It's nice...to see so many players joining in together for a fun time..."

Esther turned back to the figure and extended her hand in a form of greeting. "My name is Esther, it's a pleasure to meet you, demon-man."

@Genji

COMPLETE
All Participants 1SP

66 Col

The trio continued their search for materials, never quite seeing eye to eye.

Despite this... Esther was happy. She was with two people she greatly cared about. She was able to see a more kinder side to Mari, and see the pink haired woman open up, even if it were only a tiny bit. Unnoticeable to the regular player. But Esther...ESther could see just how hard the woman tried. That alone meant the world to the pacifist. Then there was Rin...Rin was a little more complicated, Esther tried hard with Rin but no matter what she did  it seemed the timid moussey haired girl just went along with whatever the crowd was doing. Esther understood the sentiment, but sorely wanted the girl to come out of her shell.

In due time... Esther told herself that in due time, all things would work out.

The world wasn't such a bad place as the two made it out to be.


Everything would work out.

Esther fell silent, a rarity in and of itself as she pondered his question. Why did she return here? She spoke slowly and thoughtfully. "I think...I enjoy it here, I tend to bother people. They call me naive and foolish. I know a few higher levelled players, but they don't treat me with...: " She pursed her lips as she tried to think of the right words. It wasn't like Mari and Domarus, and Lycan and the rest saw her in a bad light, they each were nice to Esther in their own way. Still...

"They don't exactly treat me like an adult. I admit, I see everything half full. I ask a lot of questions, and I refuse to place any skills into combat - I'm a pacifist, but I am not a child. Rather..." Esther took a sip of her tea and relaxed her shoulders, rolling them back and inhaling deeply. "Rather... I look after them here, from time to time. To think children are in this place... I want them to still be kids. I don't want this experience to destroy their innocence."

Esther turned to Genji with a smile. She was enjoying his company. "I think a swordsman is a noble role. The world needs its protectors after all."

Esther frowned as she lighty tapped the ground again with her palm. "Sit.  Sit. Please." 

With a flick of her wrist she opened up her menu and with another flourish, a small teaset appeared. It was nothing notable, plain white pot and two plain cup and saucer sets. They were dull, but served their purpose well enough. Esther continued talking, filling in the empty space that Genji left.

"I went there for a few months, as part of a cultural tour. I didn't get to see Tokyo but I spent a lot of time in Osaka, and Nara. My homestay family were absolutely lovely." Esther poured the drinks, the kettle clinked against the glass as she was less than graceful. The liquid was a dark hue of brown and had a floral scent. "Here. It's Earl Grey. I hope you like it." She held up a shaky cup toward Genji, trying her best not to let it topple onto the grass.

As she waited for him to take it, she steered the conversation back toward him. "I don't see many players down here these days. Did you come here to enjoy the scenery, or are you on other business?"

Esther smiled, not catching the awkwardness that Genji portrayed. She vigorously shook his hand. Feeling elated and delighted to find such a like minded individual. "Yes!" She laughed a melodic laugh that was bright and full of life. "Let's say the pleasure is for the both of us!" Esther gave Genji's hand one firm squeeze, enjoying the warmth of another before letting go.

"It is rare! I used to try and bring Miss Mari out here all....the...time..." As the sentence left her lips,  the exuberant smile fell. Mari... "I do hope she is ok." Esther muttered, biting her lower lip. Esther, as always rattled on, and began to explain herself without being asked. "She's a PKer on the tenth floor you see. She has done so much wrong, but the world has tossed and thrown her all around. I only wanted to make her happy." Esther laughed as she took a step back. She scratched the back of her head. "Ah... I am rambling. I'm sorry. Genji."

Esther wasn't always bright, but she did catch sight of his bow. She dipped her head in return. "Are you uhm... Japanese?" Esther asked, eyes widening in delight. "Oh! I tried learning Japanese in conjunction with my minor in english. Your written language is so beautiful." 

Esther abruptly sat down in the ground and tapped the floor next to her. "Please! Come sit with me. I have some tea. Would you care to join?"

Esther glanced up at the sound of a friendly voice. A man, who couldn't be any older, nor younger than her was waving. She glanced around wondering if he was indeed talking to her. She pointed to herself. "M-me?" He laughed in response and nodded. "Oh!" She blinked "OH!" Esther smiled and waved in return.

"Yes! I love it." She glanced up at the sun then back to him. "I love this floor. This place. Times like these. I wish people would take a break and let the sun warm their backs. You know?"

He smiled in return, "I couldn't agree more. My-"

"OH!" Esther interrupted him. "Here."

Esther reached out and carefully placed a yellow dandelion behind the man's ear. Her action was gentle, and done with such thought and consideration that her small brows furrowed in concentration, glossed lips pursed and she had even stopped breathing. She let out a breath as she stood back, admiring her work. "There." Esther said with a warm smile. "Now you can carry the sun wherever you go."

The wisps of white reminded her of an old friend, of a youth named Lycan. Despite the past, Esther had no bitter resentment in her heart. It was simply a fleeting memory laced with fondness, the kind that made her heart skip a beat and the kind that made her feel warm. The kind that put her into the position of staring at the man before her. The man whose brilliant golden eyes regarded her with mild curiosity.

"OH!" Esther jumped, startling herself. She extended her hand. "I am so very sorry! That was probably. Ah. Rude of me yes? I Just thought well, you looked like you could use a splash of colour and it matched your eyes and your smile and, uhm -" She took a breath to stop her erratic chatter. "I am Esther. It is a pleasure to meet you."

Her name was but a long forgotten whisper. Her innocent smile filled with earnest. Forgotten. Wide and curious emerald eyes, ever questioning the world around her and ever lingering on those she spoke to. Forgotten. Silken wisps of lilac that danced about a small frame dressed in nothing more than a simple white cotton dress. A whimsical voice with a tuneful tone that constantly questioned, guided, and loved all those around her. Forgotten.

Everything that was once Esther amongst the world of Aincrad was gone.

Whatever trials and tribulations the girl faced during her time with a guild whose name was lost to time were far behind her and did not...could not bother the girl. She had nary the recollection of her time there. Her memory was not gone, that would be far too convenient, but it was hazy. Figures danced across her memories but they were shrouded in static that no matter how hard she tried, she could not see through. Instead of dwelling on a past that was better left forgotten Esther chose to return to what she knew and what did she know?

The simple things.

A dainty hand reached down and gently picked up a yellow flower, in a field of many, just outside the walls of the town. She bought it up to her face and twirled it between thumb and forefinger. The sunlight bounced off the silken leaves just so and Esther couldn't help but smile as she silently placed it into a basket she loosely held at her side. 

Today was a day just like any other.

Addel raised an eyebrow, as his depature was halted. "Mm? Kid, you do realize  we are in a safe zone right? You can brandish your weapon like a spoilt brat all you want. It won't do nothing. Unless of course, you send a duel request to me." Addel shrugged, brushing his golden fringe out of his stark, blue eyes. "Ah, but I got more important things to do - like staring aimlessly at the sky." Addel's eyes narrowed, as he pushed the blade away from his face. "What I'm curious about, brat...is how you claim to know what our potion is, we haven't released it outside our guild." He sneered, "Are you a new member in a different sect I don't know much about. 

Jonathan started shouting, Addel leaned back with a grunt, cleaning his ear out with his pinky. "Tch. Loud one ain't cha?"

Hearing the commotion Esther turned to see what was going on, she saw another player brandishing a weapon toward Addel. Her brows furrowed, and she pushed past him, and stood between him and Addel. Holding her arms out wide. "If you want to hurt him, you have to go through me first." She growled at Jonathan. "You have no right to talk to him that.....that...." Her eyes softened as she noticed something behind him.

Her eyes moved past Jonathan, seeing someone walk off in the distance. A tall figure, draped in heavy armor. His hair, scruffy and unkempt - spiked up as though they represented the very flames of fire that his hair seeped the colour from. Part of her wanted to chastise him for not brushing it. But Why? Esther took a step forward, shifting past Jonathan and Rin. "D-Domarus?"

"Esther." A voice, stern called her from behind.

She took another step forward, placing a hand over her heart. Why did it hurt? Was it because he was walking away? Or because he was in the company of another woman?

"Esther, We're going." The voice called again, and Esther pulled her head away from the sight of the man turning back toward Addel. "Ah, Sorry." She headed back toward Addel, who placed an arm around the mid of her back. "I think  we've caused enough of a stir here today, pet. More so than I may have intended." Addel wrinkled his nose. The words sounded odd coming from his tongue. He only meant to observe, not to have people approach of their own accord. With a shrug, Addel guided Esther away, back toward the forests that lined the horizon of the second floor.

-Esther and Addel leave thread-

"Lye..."

Esther felt him wrap a warm arm around her, and she leaned into him. Her green eyes watching Mari. "If you irrevocably loved someone...and had to watch as they were torn away from you - how do you think you'd react?" She asked softly, voice breaking as she was on the verge of tears. It was her way of chastising him. "I think...if that happened to me, I'd probably shut down too."

Lycan asked her if she knew Mari's lover, and she shook her head, spilling curtains of lilac over her face. "No. I only know his name was Thom, and that he was also a close friend of Arc." Esther sniffed, tears started falling down her cheeks as the song began to build up into its final crescendo. "I wish...I was as talented as Mari...if I ever lost someone...I'm afraid, I'd never be strong enough to do what she does. To stand and...just...pour my heart out."

Esther laughed weakly. "Look. I don't even know this person and I can't stop crying." Her grip on his clothing tightened, as she let out another sob.

People were begining to leave, and Addel began to grow bored. He yawned. Loudly. Standing he motioned for Esther to put the chair away in her inventory. She obliged and it disappeared. Addel stretched, giving another yawn. 

"My, I thought things would be more interesting." He said in a bored tone. Addel paused as @Beatbox approached him. "Mmm?" Addel tilted his head to the side. "Honestly. Today. No other agenda kid." He glanced down at Rin and Esther. The two seemed to be getting along, and it most certainly seemed that Esther was keeping her distance from the other girl. Addel smirked. Good. He rose his eyes to Beatbox once more. "It seems I have made....quite the impact here..." He paused glancing around at the hateful looks that were shot his way. He didn't care, they only fuelled him. Addel laughed, giving Beatbox a slap on the back before he left. "Aye, Best we leave if people can't handle a lil' romantic action eh?" The blonde haired youth turned away from Addel.

Esther gave Rin an odd look. "You want to spend more time with me?" Her tone was curious. "If you want, I won't stop you, but I'm a little busy the next few days." Esther offered Rin a small smile. "We have a few tasks and matters to take care of."

"C'mon, we're leaving."

Esther blinked, and stood up, brushing herself off. She helped Rin stand and proceeded to brush the grass off the olive skinned girl too. "There." Esther smiled softly at Rin. "Maybe we will meet again soon."

Addel had already turned to leave the group, but Esther had yet to notice. "I think..." Esther paused, staring at the girl before her. Her voice resembled normalcy, for just a moment, as she spoke those next words. "I think, I'd very much like that, @Rin."

The snowy ferret skitted from Kiba to Rin, and settled itself into her lap, large blue eyes blinking at her before Fidget began gnawing on one of the frills of her maid dress. "Is that so?" Esther asked, leaning back against the leather chair that Addel sat on. As if reacting to her presence Addel reached down, his fingers trailed through her hair. Esther leaned back, enjoying the feeling. Esther didn't know Ren. Rin. Whatever her name was. She didn't recall her. She didn't have a real desire to talk to her, or hang out with her. All she really wanted to do was crawl back into Addel's lap, but he had commanded her to continue to talk to the strange girl - so she did.

"I'm envious. Master so readily took you into his lap." Esther pulled her knees up to her chest, and wrapped her arms around them. "Most look upon my Master with ill will, but you, did not. You acted as if you knew me, but I don't know who you are. Honestly. The main reason I still talk to you is because he desires it." Esther's words were brutally harsh toward Rin, despite being spoken in her usual, soft tones. If she were herself, she'd probably pull the other girl into a warm embrace and apologise for saying such hurtful things, but Esther wasn't herself.

She hadn't been herself for a long time.

"I don't mind the conversation." she admitted. "I'm just not used to it. So I don't think I can help you with feeling socialable."

"If Little Rin wants, she can join us later." Addel drolled from above, lifting his hand from Esther's head. He cracked his fingers before resting them in his lap. His blue eyes shifting from fight to fight in front of him. He didn't care if Rin did or did not join them, rather - having her would prove to be a bonus. Addel knew that Lycan and Arc were out for blood, and with two shields, he would be a lot harder to hit.

Addel watched with mild interest, It seemed Rin really did have some sort of feelings for Esther. More so than he thought. "My...I didn't think you loved the woman. Little Rin." Addel mused, as he scratched his chin. Another player approached, and diffused the situation with the loud tin can man, banging his shield. It seemed the potion had no effect on Rin, perhaps it was too little amount. "Next time..." He mused. Addel shifted, and Rin moved off of him to sit next to Esther.

"Pet, feel free to talk to Rin." Addel's eyes rose to the fight that was occuring in front of them. "I'm just here to watch the world burn around me." He said with a twisted grin, leaning back in his chair. The Player Killer, Addel had no idea who the man was, but his bet was on him. There was no way the angry, child, the tin can man would win. 

Esther turned to Rin, but before she could say anything, a bounding white ball of fury came running at her, growling at Addel. "W..what?" Esther blinked. "A Lion??" She gaze a dazed smile as she sat up, wrapping her arms around the lion's mane, burrying her face into it. "Ahh....it's so white, so soft..." She gently closed her eyes. "I wish I had a fami-" Esther paused, drawing back from Kiba with a start. Kimba pawed at her gently. "Fami...li..er..." Esther furrowed her brows. Struggling to remember. "I...I do have one..."

she opened up her inventory, and - sure enough - there was a sleeping familiar. She pulled it out. A snowy Ermine, whose name 'Fidget' appeared above its head sprung to life. It ran around Esther, looped around Rin, then ducked under Kimba, circling the lion. Even in Esther's dazed state, she laughed at the scene. "That's right...I remember...I found Fidget." She turned to Rin, "Do you have a familiar too Ren?" She mispronounced the name, already forgetting what the girl was called.

Addel didn't react to the lion, beyond a distasteful glare and a shift. Turning away from the growling familiar. 

"Familiars. Such a waste of time." He glanced down at Esthers familiar. He made a note to have her destroy it later.

Addel grinned, his eyes widening with a twisted fascination. "Pet, if you don't mind...I'd like you to bring Rin here." He gestured to his lap. Esther nodded, she turned to Rin. Offering the girl a small smile. "Hello, Rin." Her voice sounded empty and hollow. Despite her sweet demeanor and mannerisms, to those who knew Esther, they would know it was horrendously off. To those who didn't know Esther, to those who were just watching, either up close or from afar - would simply see a happy woman, doing the bidding of her beloved Master. "I'm not sure of any plans, you may have me confused with someone else." Esther said, "Still - it sounds like a lovely thing to do. Come, Master wants you." Esther gently grasped Rin's hand with one hand, the other wrapped around her back. Guiding the trembling girl toward Addel. "Don't be scared. Master is wonderful."

Once Rin was within range, Addel pulled her down into his lap. "See, she's still the girl you know." Addel crooned, brushing away bangs of chocolate brown hair. "She just only wishes to serve me now, is that really so bad? You know we saved her right? Lycan tried to murder her. If we hadn't stepped in, he would have too. We don't kill people Esther. We only guide them to become who they really want to be. I've watched you, little Rin. I could administer the potion, but I don't think you'd be happy with that. No..." His cold blue gaze didn't once leave Rin's, as he passed the vial to Esther, and pulled her closer. The three seemed to be in their own, little world. "I think you'd much prefer it if she gave it to you."

Addel commanded Esther to take the potion into her mouth, and to kiss Rin. Esther nodded, she leaned down, and offered Rin a small look as if to apologise. "I'll be gentle." Esther said, as she placed the last mouthful of the potion into her mouth. Esther leaned over Rin, pressing her soft lips against the olive skinned girls, their lips parted and the black liquid trickled down from one throat to another. Esther held herself there till Rin swallowed, then pulled away. "Good girl." Addel said, as he pushed Esther back toward the ground.

He lifted his eyes as another approached, a man in full suited armor. His tone soured. "Do you mind? We are having a private moment." He shooed the man off. "None of us are interested in dancing or battles. Go loom over someone else, tin can kid."

I hate bacon and that weirds people out too..hahaha..

Addel opened his eyes to see the olive skinned girl from a few days prior. "Oh?" He signalled for Esther to stop as he sat up. "Let her go?" Addel chuckled darkly as he stood, towering over a shivering Rin. He gestured toward Esther, who calmly placed the grape in her own mouth. Chewing it quietly. "Have a look." He paused, his blue eyes challenging the girl. "Rin was it? Do you see any restraint from her? Any pain? She enjoys this." Addel stepped closer, placing a finger under Rins chin, forcing her to look up at him. He leaned down, lips brushing against her earlobe, "Would you take that away from her?" Addel pulled away,shoving his a hand into his pocket with a shrug. He lifted a leg and turned on his heel, clicking a finger. "Pet, chair."

Esther stood, and breezed through her inventory till she found a plush, black leather armchair. Certainly no throne, but far more comfortable than a rock or grass. She pulled it out of her inventory, and Addel threw himself into it. Ether shifted so she sat against the chair, Addel lowered his hand so his long, slender fingers ran through Esther's hair. "You know, Rin - we just happened to be passing through. It's luck to see you here today. I admire you tenacity, ah, one moment." He licked his lips. "Pet, it's time for your dosage." He pulled a small, black vial from his inventory, and watched as Esther lazily lifted herself up toward him.

"You know Rin, the man who made this - warned me against giving any more than a single dose every 24 hours. I've doubled that." His grin widened, "I may even triple it. Know what doubling the dosage does, Rin?" He asked, as he popped open the cork, and poured 3/4 of the vial down Esther's throat. Esther hungrily lapped at the Toxin, her body twitched as she swallowed and her head fell forward. "It begins to warp the memories of her past, before long - she won't remember you, nor Lycan, even that red headed fellow. You will all be, but a distant memory awash in her subconsciousness. It's a small price to pay..."

Addel paused, twirling the vial in his hands. In it, contained barely a mouthful. "To feel such esctasy, tell me, Little Rin. Aren't you curious? Don't you want to experience the same sensations as Esther?" He held out the remainder of the vial to her. "I'm just nice enough to give you that choice."