The Earth Delegation

[kpjam]

"Mother would be so dissapointed, not to mention father."  She mentions morosely while she lowers her head.  "I really do need to become independend of them some day.    So where to now?"

[Corwin]

"We really should go and meet the Queen," Artemis replies, jumping into Minako's arms. "She wouldn't have recalled us if it weren't important."

[kpjam]

Minako gently strokes the advisor and heads towards the Queen.

[Corwin]

Minako follows Artemis's directions, and quckly finds the way to the throne room. A pair of guards stand there, barring access to anyone who would try to enter.

[kpjam]

Minako stops.  "Formalities," she thinks to herself as she puts her advisor down and rears up as regally as possible.

"Princess Minako reporting to Queen Serenity as ordered," she announces to the guards.

[Corwin]

Upon hearing Minako's greeting and spotting Artemis, the guards salute and open the doors. A young woman can be seen standing next to a window and glancing outside from where Minako is at.

[kpjam]

At being admitted, she buries the worry she had about that, and walks into the room.  

Careful to keep a respectful difference, she clears her throat, hoping to draw the attention of the other woman.

[Corwin]

"Welcome to Luna, Minako-chan!" Serenity greets her, as the princess comes up to her. "I'm glad we finally get a chance to meet face to face."

[kpjam]

Minako smiles, relief flooding her at the unexpectily nice greeting.  "I am as well, your Majesty."

She curtseys, letting the years of practice take over.  "I am here for you to command," she says deferentially.

[Corwin]

Serenity (21:44:33): "Command?" Serenity giggles. "You are here to defend our way of life, Minako-chan! I would like to see you as a friend!"
Minako (21:48:49): Minako smiles, feeling a lot more at ease then she has been of late.  "I would like that as well, Your Majesty."
Serenity (21:54:17): Serenity nods. "Unfortunately," she says, her earlier cheer fading slightly, "before we could devote ourselves completely to training, a minor issue of the Earth needs to be resolved."
Serenity (21:54:25): Glancing at Minako with curiosity, she asks, "What is your impression of the Earthlings?"
Minako (21:57:13): 'Issue,' Minako thinks to herself.  Memories of her discussion with the General and the very short conversation with the much too prissy preservative named person flitted through her mind.
Minako (21:57:54): "They're very similar to us," she finally responds.  "Well, they seem normal I mean.  Dreams, ambitions."
Serenity (21:59:05): "It seems the rumors have been wrong," Serenity muses. "But if that is true, then the reality is much more frightening."
Minako (22:01:18): "Rumors?  Like what, My Queen," she asks.
Serenity (22:02:11): Serenity waves her hand in irritation. "Eating babies, being dirty... backwards people...."
Minako (22:03:16): "Oh," Minako says, stricken.  "I can't believe they'd do that.  I can't believe anyone would do that."
Serenity (22:03:14): "The rumors are false, yes. Then, it would seem that there is something about Earth, which could turn even the most cultured, decent human beings into blood-thirsty animals."
Serenity (22:03:17): Serenity shakes her head. "I can't say I like that thought."
Minako (22:04:21): Eyes widening in shock, Minako stammers, "You... you... you mean there are instances when Earthlings have been found to have eaten babies?"
Serenity (22:05:19): Serenity sighs. "No. That's a rumor. I think."
Minako (22:06:41): "Phew," Minako thinks as she visibly slumps and places a hand to her forehead.  "The General only seems to want peace, and the freedom to travel.   I think they should be given a chance."
Serenity (22:09:32): "I wish I were doing this out of altruism," Serenity says with another sigh. "We really don't need to worry about Earth, so I might as well do something stupid like breaking all of my ancestors' taboos."
Minako (00:11:44): Minako looks chagrinned as she bowed her head, realizing, perhaps how impetuous her statement was.  "Is breaking a taboo that we don't  believe in more harmful than a war? "
Serenity (00:18:51): "I believe in my ancestors," Serenity says finally, after pondering Minako's words carefully. "I believe in this Kingdom, which was formed by their efforts. And they must have had every reason for how they treated Earth. If I begin to doubt them on Earth, do I doubt them on other things as well?"
Minako (00:20:23): "Maybe things have changed..." she says impulsively before pausing in thought.  "I don't really know.  I just don't want to be mean.  I know that sounds silly."
Serenity (00:21:13): "You're right, of course." Serenity shrugs. "Keeping the taboo, as we see it, is more harmful than the alternative. Thus, it must be what gives."
Minako (00:31:22): Minako releases a breathe she didn't know she was holding.  "Your Majesty is most remarkable, " she says, trying to add a little flattery that Artemis has been drilling into her.
Serenity (00:33:59): Serenity snorts in a most unladylike manner. "If you say so."
Minako (00:36:11): A short giggle escapes the Princess' lips.  "You're not at all like I expected."
Serenity (00:37:28): "Expectations are the mother of all screw ups," she says, as if reciting something. "My mother used to say that a lot when I was little. I think. I _was_ little, after all...."
Minako (00:40:52): "I guess...  I've never heard that saying before.  But if you expect nothing, how can you prepare for anything?"
Serenity (00:42:53): "I never actually thought of that. I guess I just decide everything as it happens."
Minako (00:46:38): "Oh," the blonde says softly.  "So what can I do to help?"  She found this conversation with the Queen -- while it was much easier than she had originally thought  -- to be a bit disconcerting in it's informality and wanted to know when the shoe would kick her, so to speak.
Serenity (00:47:34): "You could--" Serenity is interrupted by a knock on the doors of the throne room.
Minako (00:48:53): Minako turns to the sound.

[Corwin]

Meanwhile, as Beryl is double-checking what she dubbed Earth's wishlist, a message comes to her from her other superiors. All it has is a single item -- a request for the Moon Kingdom to authorize Earth setting up an alternate energy sources research laboratory on a planetoid outside of Pluto's orbit.

[thepanda]

Filing both sets of orders away in her head Beryl contemplates her current situation, awaiting the summons for the peace-talks to begin. Instead of the flamboyant clothes she has worn so far on the moon, today she wears a simple green ankle-length skirt and white blouse.

She takes the a few moments to strengthen her resolve to not sell the kingdom.

“Go time.”

[Corwin]

A pair of guards arrive to take Beryl for her first round of negotiations with the Queen just as she finishes going over her orders. The trip to the throne room is uneventful, and soon she is standing outside its doors, one of the guards knocking on them.

[Corwin]

Serenity (00:59:55): "Enter!" Serenity says, straightening up as the guard outside opens the doors at her command.
Minako (01:00:37): Minako stands up ramrod straight and wonders who might be entering.
Beryl (01:01:52): Beryl enters with all the presence she can muster.
Serenity (01:02:24): "How nice to see you again, Miss Beryl!" Serenity exclaims. "Your Prince must still be ill?"
Serenity (01:18:02): "I wish he would've let our healers take a look at him," Serenity says sorrowfully. "But your crew had been most adamant about not letting anyone in."
Beryl (01:22:31): "We appreciate your concern, but orders are orders are orders."
Beryl (01:24:24): "All the same, it does allow me to enjoy your company again, Queen Serenity." Beryl bows.
Serenity (01:24:37): "Of course," Serenity allows. "Ah, where are my manners? Minako von Magellan," she says, turning towards the blonde, "this is Miss Beryl of the Earth delegation."
Minako (01:26:24): Minako performs an elegant curtsy.  "It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Beryl."
Beryl (01:26:49): ''A pleasure,'' Beryl says confidently, sizing up the princess. She returns the curtsy with a bow.
Beryl (01:27:28): "You will be joining the Talks as well, yes?"
Minako (01:28:46): "If that is the will of My Queen, I can only hope to add some small insight to such momentous proceeding." Minako felt a headache from uttering such a long sentence.
Serenity (01:29:14): "She will be," Serenity confirms, "as the preliminary representative and the crown princesses of the second most influential royal house of the Moon Kingdom."
Beryl (01:30:14): Beryl takes a longer moment to ponder the girl, before nodding.
Beryl (01:30:58): "I certainly hope this venture will be profitable for all parties involved."
Beryl (01:31:21): 'Especially mine,' she thought to herself.
Minako (01:31:28): Minako smiles brightly at the kind words of her Queen.  "I think things can only improve when people meet and discuss things together."
Serenity (01:35:21): "I wanted to have this chat, just between us. Minako's arrival was unexpected, but welcome," Serenity says, looking at Beryl. "What are Earth's intentions?"
Beryl (01:37:11): "Earth's intentions?" Beryl asks, surprised at how blunt the question was asked.
Beryl (01:37:50): She had been expecting the normal runaround and half-truths associated with dealings between high powers.
Beryl (01:39:49): "Earth's intentions? Well let's see. We'd certainly enjoy a release of the ban on trade with the rest of the system for one."
Serenity (01:40:55): "Not a sweeping removal of it, I hope," Serenity says with a touch of worry showing on her face. "There are illegal substances to consider...."
Beryl (01:42:18): "From the Earth of the rest of the solar system?" Beryl inquires, wondering what they might fear trading with Earth.
Beryl (01:42:57): 'Probably Lunar weaponry,' she thinks. 'I suppose I can't blame her there.'
Serenity (01:47:34): "In both directions," Serenity replies, declining to elaborate.
Beryl (01:49:31): "There are a few other odds and ends, but we really just wish to be left out no longer. There is a great big universe out there and we, as of now, aren't a part of it."
Serenity (01:50:11): Serenity nods. "What else?"
Beryl (01:52:28): "What else? What does any kingdom want. Expansion. Prosperity. Safety."
Serenity (01:55:29): "You are safe," Serenity says. "At least from the outside. Prosperity would come from economic ties. Expansion...." She frowns. "Expansion doesn't sit well with me."
Beryl (01:57:17): Beryl raises a delacate eyebrow. "Surely the universe outside this solar system has room for us?"
Serenity (01:58:43): "Earth should stay inside the solar system for its own good." Serenity laughs suddenly. "Goodness, it sounded like a threat."
Beryl (02:02:05): Beryl simply nods slightly, neither laughing nor getting angry. "Perhaps it is so, but that is the will of Earth. I am simply a voice." Beryl gives the queen time to calm her humor. "And the Silver Millenium, what is it you expect to get out of this?"
Serenity (02:04:10): "We'll get to that in a moment," Serenity says, frowning once more. "We are not alone in the universe. By expanding beyond the scope of the solar system, Earth would bring to itself the attention of beings we wish to have no dealings with." She pauses. "Like I said, Earth will be the one to alert them to its presence, but to get to it, they would have to go through _my_ outer colonies."
Beryl (02:08:34): "Perhaps," Beryl says placatingly. It seemed she'd hit a nerve. "But the Universe is a big place. There will always be some bad when exploring potential good. You've taken a chance by meeting with us, people who, by all accounts, eat children," Beryl jokes.
Beryl (02:08:59): "Can you fault us if we give the Universe that chance as well?"
Serenity (02:10:00): "Maybe I was wrong," Serenity says simply. She then shakes her head. "That doesn't matter. We will talk about Earth's dreams of expansion later. You asked about our aspirations?"
Beryl (02:10:59): "If you would be so kind?"
Serenity (02:11:40): Serenity nods, and walks over to an open window. "We simply want quiet."
Beryl (02:12:39): "Quiet, Queen? I'm afraid I don't quite get your meaning."
Serenity (02:15:11): "Though it is rarely seen that way," Serenity speaks, "the Earth Kingdom is in a state of war with the Moon Kingdom. I want that to stop."
Beryl (02:16:37): "Ah, the stand off. There are more than a few back home who feel the same way."
Beryl (02:17:19): 'And more than a few that would sooner stick a dagger in you than look at you,' Beryl did not say.
Serenity (02:18:27): "Our Kingdom wishes to concentrate on other things, and having an enemy so near to the capital stands in the way of that. Even if it is an enemy in name only."
Beryl (02:19:43): "Hm. Some would say you have an ideal situation as it stands rather than the quiet you long for."
Beryl (02:20:22): Beryl approaches the window as well slowly, with audible footfalls.
Serenity (02:22:27): "Perhaps. But I'm tired of having to keep the main chunk of my fleet in my back yard."
Beryl (02:23:59): Beryl allows the silence to last a bit. 'Odd. Very odd indeed. One might even think....'
Serenity (02:26:01): "Besides, my daughter has quite a high opinion of your countrymen, Miss Beryl," Serenity adds suddenly. "Though still young, I trust her judgement in this case over that of some of my advisors."
Beryl (02:27:09): "They say the young see with open eyes. At least they do in Atlantis."
Serenity (02:27:57): Serenity tilts her head slightly. "A curious saying."
Beryl (02:31:05): "It simply means that the young have not yet become set on their ways or jaded to the world." Beryl shrugs, an unlady-like display in some circles. "I've found it to be true in many cases."
Serenity (02:31:49): "Perhaps I am too old," Serenity muses, glancing back at Minako with a smile.
Beryl (02:33:43): "With age comes wisdom. A saying so ancient none recall what relic land it originates from. The Universe balances out in the end."
Serenity (02:35:22): Serenity snorts. "I might have been wrong about you, Miss Beryl. Alright! I've decided!" She nods to herself. "You will be Minako's counterpart during negotiations."
[02:37] <Beryl> "Counterpart, Queen?"
[02:39] <Corwin> "The Crown Princess of Venus will head the diplomatic corps," Serenity responds. "Just like Genkai will deal with the military part. I will be overseeing both, though I won't get actively involved."
[02:41] <Beryl> "Ah, I see. From your praise of her I have no doubt this mission will proceed swimmingly," Beryl says lowly, just enough to carry to the Queen.
[02:45] <Corwin> "I will let you two get acquainted once we're done here," Serenity says. "There is no need to feel any pressure. The formal negotiations won't start till tomorrow, though there will be a ball this evening. I believe you've already been informed about it."
[02:46] <Beryl> "Yes, I'm looking forward to it."
[02:46] <Beryl> 'I wonder if Lunar parties are as wild as Earth parties?' Beryl wonders.
[02:47] <Corwin> "Alright. I'll leave you two here, then," Serenity tells Beryl. Turning away, she waves at Minako, and walks outside.
[8:20pm] <Minako> When the Queen leaves the room, Minako turns to Beryl and asks, "Is expansion really so vital to the Earth's prosperity?"
[8:20pm] <Beryl> "Many would see it that way. Personally, I would like to see what the universe holds for myself."
[8:21pm] <Minako> "Isn't there a difference between travel and expansion? "
[8:25pm] <Beryl> "One generally bleeds into the other. And while I am content to simply travel, many at home are not. Power, jealousy, honest curiosity, a better life, the ability to have a place of your own," Beryl says, ticking off fingers at point raised. "The reasons haven't changed since before men learned to walk."
[8:28pm] <Minako> Minako purses her lips. While she feels disappointment that her point wasn't completely conceded, she understands that Beryl is right: The same uniqueness that makes people individuals leaves them with shortcomings.
[8:29pm] <Minako> "I believe the queen when she mentions the dangers with trying to reach outsides one's own comfort zone. I hope she is just overcautious, though I fear she isn't."
[8:29pm] <Minako> "What are Earth parties like?" she asks suddenly.
[8:30pm] <Beryl> "Sadly, it won't matter in the end." Beryl looks out through the window, her gaze cast across the lunarscape.
[8:30pm] <Beryl> "Hm? Earth parties?" Beryl perks up.
[8:31pm] <Minako> "Serenity mentioned a reception this evening. I was wondering what one would expect were you hosting?" Minako has decided that that was enough talk of important matters for one day.
[8:32pm] <Beryl> "Ah, well, that all depends on where and who is throwing it," Beryl says, letting the previous line of thought slip away.
[8:33pm] <Beryl> "Now we Atlantians can throw a party. Trust me on this, you haven't partied unto you've..." Beryl pauses suddenly, recalling that this is a diplomat she is talking to.
[8:34pm] <Beryl> "Um, let's just say they're something special." A grin is plastered on her face.
[8:36pm] <Minako> Minako looks riveted until Beryl pauses. "Special..." she muses as her eyes close slowly imagining scenes of revelry and merry-making. "I wonder what this reception will be like. My parents functions are generally pretty boring, I'm sorry to say."
[8:36pm] <Minako> "Maybe later you can tell me some details of what makes your parties, 'special'?"
[8:38pm] <Beryl> "Oh, there's a lot that makes Atlantian parties special, but they aren't the only ones. 'Festival of the Devil' in west-southern hemisphere comes to mind."
[8:41pm] <Beryl> "Thirteen days of parades, costumes, food, drink, beads, beads, and more beads!"
[8:41pm] <Minako> Mentioning of 'Devil' makes Minako involuntarily think of eating babies. She suppresses a shudder before smiling. "I do hope we get a chance to speak tonight. I think it important we get a chance to relax together before the seriousness of our talks. I know Serenity wants to see a happy end to this situation, as do I."
[8:50pm] <Beryl> "As do we all, I hope."
[8:51pm] <Minako> Princess Minako realizes what was said earlier, and starts to imagine Beryl in all kinds of bizarre costumes, one of Beryl dressed as bunny seems to persistently present itself, eliciting a small giggle from the blonde.
[8:52pm] <Beryl> Beryl blinks. "Something amusing, princess?"
[8:52pm] <Minako> Calming down, she switches subjects again, "Does everyone have to dress up?"
[8:53pm] <Beryl> "Sure. It's traditional. People have dressing up for it since way back when."
[8:54pm] <Minako> "If agreements can be reached, I'd like to attend sometime. Do you think you could help me find a costume?"
[8:56pm] <Beryl> "If you can't find a costume for the Festival then you must be blind, broke, and really out of luck," Beryl chuckles. "They sell all manner of outfits on every street corner. Even the street urchins have masks at least."
[8:56pm] <Beryl> "I'd like to take you some time. There's a lot of history behind that one."
[8:57pm] <Minako> Minako smiles brightly, thinking of dressing up and blending in to a mass of people.
[8:57pm] <Minako> "That sounds wonderful. I will hold you to it. I need to go prepare for this evening, but we must continue this talk."
[8:58pm] <Beryl> Beryl nods. "Yes, I suppose we should prepare. Oh, but I never asked what the parties up here are like?"
[9:01pm] <Minako> Minako purses her lips. "They tend to be formal and boring. At least the ones my parents throw. Though, I have heard of wilder affairs among the other nobles. Lunar parties aren't discussed, and I have never before attended one... So I'll be as surprised as you will be." Minako curtsies, before adding, "If there's nothing else, I'll ask the Queen if we can sit close to each other..." she pauses briefly, "If that isn't to presumptuous?"
[9:03pm] <Beryl> "No, not at all. I'd like to hear about Venus, myself." Beryl bows again. "Then until this evening, princess."
[9:05pm] <Minako> Her smile brightening even more, Minako departs and heads towards her room.
[9:05pm] <Beryl> Beryl departs as well, a jovial tune on her lips.

[Corwin]

[20:21] <Corwin> ---------
[20:23] <Corwin> After a refreshing nap, Rei wakes up half an hour before the ball is to start. On the adjacent bed, Ami is sleeping soundly, tired from the battle earlier and the revelations which followed.
[20:26] <Rei-chan> Recalling that Ami doesn't really like ball's, and the fairly hard day the young girl has had, Rei decides to let Ami sleep. Looking through her clothes, the Martian Princess settles on a shimmering red ballgown, and quickly gets dressed and applies her makeup and jewellery before leaving the room.
[20:27] <Corwin> As the elevator's doors open at ground level, Rei finds an escort of four guards waiting for her.
[20:28] * Rei-chan nods slightly to the guards, allowing them to lead her onwards.
[20:30] <Corwin> The four bow, and one of them, the apparent leader, addressed the princess. "Where is Princess Ami Hermesia, Highness?"
[20:31] <Rei-chan> "Princess Ami is feeling slightly unwell, and will not be present this evening, I'm afraid," Rei tells the guard.
[20:33] <Corwin> "Most unfortunate." He bows once more. "Please follow me then, Princess." He begins leading Rei in a direction she hadn't been to before, the other three guards following.
[20:34] * Rei-chan follows gracefully.
[20:34] <Corwin> ---------
[20:35] <Corwin> Beryl has just gotten off the videophone, after a lengthy chat with her superiors, when she notices it's almost time for the ball.
[20:37] <Beryl> "Oh, right. The ball. Hm, what to wear...."
[20:38] <Beryl> Deciding to forgo the little red number for a more festive occasion, Beryl slips into a simple, snug white dress with an intricate lily design across the left upper portion.
[20:38] <Beryl> After checking herself in the mirror she nods and heads out the door.
[20:40] <Corwin> An escort of two guards is waiting for her, both of them the same as earlier. They smile at her, bowing. "Shall we be on our way, Milady?" one of them asks.
[20:44] <Corwin> Beryl recalls that the guard who had spoken, a blond male appearing in his early twenties, is called Gren. His chubby, dark-haired companion never gave her his name, though she heard Gren call him 'Gor' once.
[20:45] <Beryl> "Certainly, Gren," Beryl says, smiling at the blonde kindly. "We wouldn't want to keep the others waiting," Beryl says, taking his arm. She nods to other guard as well.
[20:48] <Corwin> 'Gor' nods in return, and lets his friend lead Beryl to a distant ballroom, falling back behind the two.
[20:48] <Corwin> ---------
[20:49] <Corwin> "Aren't you ready yet, Mina?" Artemis asks the blonde princess through a bathroom door. "We don't have much time."
[20:50] <PrincessMinako> Minako checks her reflection in the mirror, smiling brightly at the masterful job she's done. "Almost ready, Arte!"
[20:51] <PrincessMinako> "One last minor adjustment," she says to herself. Her hands move deftly, fixing the last of her mascara.
[20:51] <PrincessMinako> "Coming!" she yells as she walks out of the bathroom.
[20:52] <Corwin> Artemis is waiting for her on the floor. As Minako exits, he looks up at her, and sighs. "What were you doing there for two hours, anyway?"
[20:53] <PrincessMinako> She smiles brightly, "A woman never knows when she needs to look her best. So I _always_ look my best!"
[20:53] <PrincessMinako> "Are you ready kitty?"
[20:55] <Corwin> Artemis looks distinctly hurt when she asks that. "Of course! I'm always ready!"
[20:56] <PrincessMinako> Minako chuckles to herself, happy to see that she can still ruffle his fur. With that thought, she bends down and scratches him before walking past towards the door. "Let's get going then!"
[20:58] <Corwin> As the two leave the quarters assigned to Minako for her stay on the Moon, an escort of Lunar Guards awaits them. Artemis acts like a normal cat, giving them an innocent glance.
[20:59] <PrincessMinako> Minako pauses at the sight of them. "Will one of you wonderful men show me where I'm supposed to go," she says sweetly.
[21:00] <Corwin> "Of course, Highness!" The two salute. "Please, follow us to the Tranquility Ballroom."
[21:01] <PrincessMinako> "What gentlemen you are," she says happily, her gloved hand extending for one of them to take it.
[21:03] <Corwin> The guard to her left takes it, his slightly slower companion shooting him a glare.
[21:03] <Corwin> "Allow me, Highness," the guard holding her hand says.
[21:04] <PrincessMinako> Minako ignores the other guard while giving the courteous one a polite nod of the head. "Shall we?" She smiles to the man, ready for him to lead her to the Tranquility Ballroom.
[21:06] <Corwin> ---------
[21:59] <Corwin> As Rei enters the Tranquility Ballroom, the first thing she sees is a huge banner welcoming 'Serenity's Friends From Earth' hanging overhead. Balloons of all colors and glowing miniatures of stars are floating in the room, some of them low enough that one could reach up and touch them. Despite a myriad of guests, she can still easily spot Queen Serenity, who chose to wear her simple white gown.
[22:02] <Rei-chan> Leaving her guards behind, Rei makes her way over to Queen Serenity and curtseys once she has the monarch's attention. "Good evening, your Majesty," she greets her politely.
[22:03] <Corwin> "Welcome, Rei-chan!" Serenity greets her warmly. "I'm so glad you could make it!" Looking around, she asks, "And where's your friend Ami-chan?"
[22:05] <Rei-chan> "It's my pleasure to be here," Rei replies in an equally warm tone, seeing Serenity isn't in one of her 'serious' moods. "Unfortunately, Princess Ami wasn't feeling too well. It has been a trying day for her, and she didn't feel up to any social events. She did ask me to pass on her apologies for not attending," she explains, deciding to try and talk Ami up a bit, lest the Queen find any reason to be upset with the poor little girl....
[22:07] <Corwin> The Queen frowns slightly. "I guess I shouldn't jump to conclusions... she certainly doesn't seem evil, so she wouldn't be planning some nasty prank while pretending to be sick...." Serenity shakes her head. "Nevermind all that. Oh, there's Minako-chan!" She turns towards Rei. "You haven't met yet, right?"
[22:09] <Rei-chan> "Princess Minako of Venus? I thought she was still aboard the 'My Dear Baby Girl Serenity'..." Rei says, looking in the direction the Queen was when she noticed Minako.
[22:11] <PrincessMinako> Minako leaves her escorts, thanking them pleasantly and enters the ballroom. Looking around she spots her Queen. Being the extra polite person she is, she walks up to the women talking and waits to be recognized.
[22:13] <Corwin> "Minako-chan, this is Rei-chan. Rei-chan, this is Minako-chan!" Serenity smiles.
[22:14] <PrincessMinako> Minako nods her head respectfully. "It's a pleasure to meet you."
[22:14] * Rei-chan smiles indulgently at the Queen before curtseying to her fellow Princess. "It's very nice to meet you, Princess Minako."
[22:16] <Corwin> Beryl arrives to the ballroom, the large pink banner welcoming Earthlings being nigh-impossible to ignore.
[22:16] <Rei-chan> "So, will you be staying with us on the Moon, now?" Rei asks Minako, "I heard the 'My Dear Baby Girl Serenity' departed for Jupiter earlier today."
[22:18] <Beryl> 'So... pink,' Beryl thinks, looking at the abom-- banner.
[22:19] <PrincessMinako> "I believe I will be here at least through the negotiations. After that, I don't know what my life will be like," Minako responds.
[22:20] * Beryl shakes her head slightly, glancing around at the rather tacky decor. It reminded her of highschool for some odd reason. 'Good call on the dress.'
[22:20] <Corwin> "Oh, I think you'll certainly be staying with us afterwards," the Queen interjects, still smiling. "Unless Artemis didn't fill you in on all the details, Minako-chan?"
[22:20] <Corwin> Artemis shivers in Minako's arms.
[22:21] * Beryl looks for the Queen.
[22:22] <Corwin> The Queen is easily found, as she seems to almost glow in her pristine dress.
[22:22] <PrincessMinako> "Darn," Minako thinks to herself, "I should listen to the silly cat more often." Looking innocently at the Queen, she says, "I was just being cautions, My Queen, trying _not_ to have too many expectations."
[22:23] * Beryl makes her way over to Serenity, taking Gren along with her.
[22:23] <Rei-chan> "I think we're all having our expectations changed..." Rei says, thinking of how different things are for her than they were just a few days ago.
[22:24] <Corwin> Just before Beryl reaches Serenity, a young girl runs in front of the Earthling, headed for the Queen. "Aunty!" the girl shouts, her long dark-green hair swishing behind her.
[22:25] <PrincessMinako> Minako quirks and eyebrow at Rei-chan. "How have your expectations changed, Rei?"
[22:25] * Beryl pauses, letting the girl pass.
[22:26] * Rei-chan looks around slightly, noting that any number of people could overhear her. "Let's just say I've developed a new appreciation for how the Silver Millenium works," she says evasively.
[22:26] <Corwin> Serenity frowns at the energetic girl. "How did I tell you to call me, Setsuna-chan?"
[22:27] <Corwin> "Well, I still remember when I called you gramma..." Setsuna replies, wincing. "Right, I shouldn't do that. Ever again."
[22:27] <Corwin> Serenity just sighs, shaking her head. "Rei-chan, Minako-chan, meet the future ruler of Pluto. The pleasure is all yours, I'm sure."
[22:29] * Rei-chan covers her mouth to hide a small chuckle at the interplay, before composing herself. "Good evening, Setsuna. It's nice to meet you," she smiles at the younger girl.
[22:30] <Corwin> "Nice to meet you too, Aunty Rei!" Setsuna chirps, returning her smile.
[22:31] <PrincessMinako> "It's wonderful to meet you, Setsuna," Minako almost gushes, loving the energy the girl produces.
[22:31] <Corwin> Setsuna nods happily at Minako. "Thank you, Aunty!"
[22:31] * Rei-chan hunches down slightly. "I don't think I'm much older than you, Setsuna-chan," she says, her smile becoming somewhat sinister.
[22:32] <PrincessMinako> "Is this your first ball?"
[22:32] <Corwin> Setsuna shakes her head at Minako, ignoring Rei's correction. "Nuh-uh! Great-gramma always takes me to balls!"
[22:33] <PrincessMinako> "Do you find them fun?"
[22:33] <Corwin> "Of course!"
[22:33] <Corwin> Setsuna is about to continue, when a polite cough cuts her off.
[22:34] <Corwin> "Let's say hello to Miss Beryl first, Setsuna-chan," Serenity speaks, nodding at the red-head.
[22:34] <Rei-chan> Rei's fingers twitch slightly, but she restrains any violent impulses. Straightening, she notices Beryl nearby, and greets her. "Hello, Lady Beryllium. Have you had a productive day since we parted?"
[22:36] <Beryl> "Hello Princess," Beryl says back, kindly. "Queen Serenity. Princess." She bows to Serenity and Minako, respectively.
[22:37] <PrincessMinako> Minako switches her attention to her new friend Beryl, and politely returns the bow.
[22:38] <Beryl> "The day has been a day, though it has had some high points," she says, smiling warmly at Minako.
[22:40] <Corwin> Beryl notices someone tugging on her dress.
[22:40] * Beryl looks for the source of said tugging.
[22:41] <Corwin> "Are you from Earth, Aunty?" Setsuna asks, looking up at the towering red-head.
[22:42] * Beryl kneels, bringing herself down to Setsuna's height. "Yes, I am. They call me Beryllium sweetie. And who might you be?" Her voice holds the same warm she's used to using with the younger members of her family.
[22:44] <Corwin> "I'm Setsuna! Setsuna de la Mare!" the girl answers. "I heard a lot about you from great-gramma!"
[22:45] <Beryl> "Oh?" Beryl glances toward Queen Serenity for a moment before bringing her attention back to Setsuna. "Good things I hope."
[22:46] <Corwin> Queen Serenity has a tired expression on her face, which is smoothed over quickly once she notices Beryl's glance.
[22:47] <Corwin> "Yep!" Setsuna replies. "She told me you were really weak! 'Easy pickings', or something. Great-gramma likes to use those words."
[22:48] * Beryl continues to smile, if a bit forced. "Is that so?"
[22:50] * Rei-chan dearly hopes Setsuna's 'great-gramma' is the senile Queen Mother of Pluto or something like that, and not in any current position of authority....
[22:50] <Corwin> Setsuna nods eagerly. "She said she'd teach me how to blast them with the Chr--"
[22:50] <Corwin> Serenity comes up, and puts a hand over the green-haired girl's mouth. "I think I'll have a chat with your 'great-gramma' later, Setsuna-chan," she says, her left eyebrow twitching.
[22:50] <PrincessMinako> Minako tries extremely hard to suppress a laugh, and barely succeeds.
[22:50] <Rei-chan> "Kids, eh?" Rei gives Beryl a slightly pained grin.
[22:51] <Corwin> Serenity whispers something into Setsuna's ear, the little girl going white and bolting for the exit. She almost makes it, before the effect of a teleport washes over her fleeing form.
[22:52] <Beryl> "Indeed," Beryl says, rising. "Spirited little thing. Reminds me of someone."
[22:53] <Corwin> "I know," Alita speaks up suddenly from behind Beryl.
[22:53] * Rei-chan brightens. "Ah, hello Alita! How are you?"
[22:53] <Corwin> "Confused," the short woman replies. "That girl seemed really familiar...."
[22:54] * Beryl turns. "Ah, Miss Alita. I had wondered where you'd gone. Enjoying yourself?"
[22:54] <Corwin> "I guess," Alita replies, shrugging. Noticing Serenity nearby, she waves at her.
[22:54] <Corwin> Serenity returns the wave, smiling once more.
[22:54] <Beryl> 'Probably not. Bet she hasn't harassed the prince since he became ill,' Beryl thinks.
[22:55] <Corwin> "I heard you got promoted," Alita comments, taking a glass from a passing waiter and sipping from it. "Congrats and all that."
[22:57] * Beryl waves it off. "Just a bit more responsibility, that's all. What _have_ you been up to?"
[22:59] <Corwin> Alita shrugs. "Oh, you know. Visiting here and there, beating up guards for fun. The usual."
[23:02] <Rei-chan> "Beating up guards...?" Rei casts a nervous glance between Alita and Queen Serenity.
[23:02] <Corwin> "It's all to further their training," Serenity says, though Rei notices an almost imperceptible wince.
[23:03] <Beryl> "Oh?" Beryl leans toward Gren and whispers, "You may go now, though I may need an escort back to my room later." She winks.
[23:05] <Rei-chan> "So, did you visit anywhere outside the palace?" Rei asks Alita. "Chances are you've probably seen more of the Moon than I have.... I haven't really gotten the chance to do much sightseeing," she laments.
[23:06] <Corwin> Gren bows to Beryl and the gathered royalty, and leaves quickly.
[23:07] <Corwin> "Only to the library," Alita says mournfully, while Serenity looks alarmed nearby. "I've been told really strong fighters were there, but when I got to the place, it was deserted."
[23:07] <PrincessMinako> "The library?" Minako asks flabbergasted by the conversation.
[23:07] <Rei-chan> "The St Claire Library?" Rei asks, paling.
[23:08] <Corwin> "Yeah, that's the one," Alita confirms, nodding. "The guards wouldn't let me in, of course. Something about planetary security." She waves her hand in a gesture of dismissal. "But no one was inside, and the place was just covered with foam."
[23:09] * Rei-chan blushes.
[23:09] <Beryl> "Foam? Perhaps a fire caused them to leave," Beryl comments.
[23:10] <Corwin> Serenity blanches. "They wouldn't!"
[23:10] <Beryl> "Hm?"
[23:10] <Rei-chan> "They couldn't!" Rei turns to Serenity, panicked, "Right?!"
[23:11] <PrincessMinako> Minako slides up to Beryl. "Do you have any idea?"
[23:11] * Beryl glances between the two. "Why wouldn't they? Certainly anyone with a bit of sense would vacate a burning building?"
[23:12] <Corwin> "Rei-chan," Serenity says in an unnaturally calm voice. "Please tell me how the fire was put out."
[23:14] <Rei-chan> "Ah...." Rei wracks her memory, since she was pretty out of it back then. "I think Priestess Misha said something about emergency sprinklers, and then Makoto-chan and I were teleported outside?"
[23:14] <Corwin> "Misha," Serenity says, before laughing to herself. "Misha! Of course! If anyone could do it--"
[23:15] * Beryl hangs back, no quite following the conversation.
[23:15] <Rei-chan> "Please, please, _please_ tell me they aren't loose," Rei begs the Queen.
[23:17] <Corwin> "Sylphiel!" Serenity calls out loudly, silencing the conversations nearby.
[23:17] <Corwin> A few moments later, the head priestess appears kneeling in front of Serenity. "Yes, my Queen?" she asks, looking up.
[23:18] <Corwin> "Investigate the St. Claire Library at once!" Serenity commands her "Take all available trainees with you."
[23:19] <Corwin> Sylphiel pales, but nods. "Is there anything else, Queen Serenity?"
[23:20] <Corwin> Serenity smiles. "Oh yes. Indeed. Find Priestess Trainee Misha, and bring her to see me at the earliest possible convenience."
[23:20] * Rei-chan has an inner battle with her conscience, not wanting to face those perverts again, but feeling for Sylphiel and the trainees.... "Ah... I'd be willing to help as well," she offers. In a way, it is kind of her fault, anyway....
[23:20] <Corwin> "You will?" Serenity asks in surprise. "Do you feel up to it, Rei-chan?
[23:21] * Rei-chan steels herself, and takes a deep breath. "I can't say I'm fully confident, but I want to at least try to bring those fiends to justice."
[23:21] <PrincessMinako> Minako, still in a hazy fit of confusion asks, "How hard can investigating foam be?"
[23:22] <Corwin> "Yeah, it didn't look that scary to me," Alita pitches in.
[23:23] <Rei-chan> "It's not the foam, it's the librarians..." Rei says uneasily.
[23:23] <Beryl> "I believe she is referring to the 'strong fighters' you mentioned earlier," Beryl says.
[23:23] <Corwin> Alita laughs. "Strong librarians? Why the hell not? I wanna meet them."
[23:24] <PrincessMinako> "Soo... some librarians started a fire, and Rei-chan had trouble bringing them to justice? Is that right, Rei-chan?"
[23:24] <Beryl> "I wonder..." Beryl says quietly.
[23:24] * Rei-chan turns to Minako. "Ah, not quite. The librarians attacked me, and in the fight, a fire was started..." she says, blushing.
[23:25] <Beryl> 'First ninja cooks and now criminal librarians.' "The universe is a strange place indeed."
[23:25] <PrincessMinako> "Why did they attack you? Did you forget to return a book?" Minako asks. Her confusion _not_ going away.
[23:26] * Rei-chan frowns. "The librarians are perverts. Not to be immodest, but I'm an attractive young woman. Do I need to explain further?" she asks, her tone becoming noticeably cooler.
[23:27] <Corwin> Serenity pats Rei's shoulder reassuringly.
[23:28] * Rei-chan gives Serenity a somewhat grateful smile. "Anyway, I suppose I should leave with Sylphiel now. I hope everyone enjoys the ball," she smiles at everyone else before moving towards Sylphiel.
[23:29] <Corwin> Serenity gives her a curt nod. "Good luck, Rei-chan, Alita, Sylphiel. May you punish them in the name of the Moon."
[23:29] <PrincessMinako> "Do you need any help," Minako asks, "I mean from the perverts?"
[23:30] * Rei-chan takes out the brass knuckles Genkai gave her. They might be an uncouth weapon, but the perverts deserve no courtesy. "If you're willing to help, I won't refuse any, but you do know the risk you're putting yourself at?" she asks Minako.
[23:31] <PrincessMinako> "Life without risk is boring," she says. "I think I should change, first. Is there a good place to meet you?"
[23:32] <Beryl> "Knuckle Dusters?" Beryl says, surprised. Really, you'd think she'd have a sword or something.
[23:32] * Rei-chan dons the knuckles, seeing her arms becoming wreathed in flame, she nods in satisfaction before also producing her Flame Whip, coiled and ready. She looks at Sylphiel to answer Minako's question, since the Priestess seems to be in charge of this mission.
[23:33] <Corwin> "There is no time to waste," Serenity says grimly. "Sylphiel will just have to provide for you."
[23:34] <Corwin> "I understand, my Queen," Sylphiel replies. She offers her hands to those coming. "Please, hold onto me."
[23:34] <Corwin> Alita is the first to grab onto Sylphiel's arm.
[23:35] <PrincessMinako> Shrugging her shoulders, Minako takes a hold of Sylphiel.
[23:37] <Beryl> "Good luck?" Beryl says uncertainly, not exactly sure why the princesses would be running off to fight criminals.
[23:37] <Beryl> 'They certainly do some odd things up here.'
[23:38] * Rei-chan puts a hand on Sylphiel's shoulder.
[23:38] <Corwin> "Rei wouldn't need luck, if what I saw of her was any judge," Alita tells Beryl with a confident smile.
[23:38] <Corwin> Sylphiel closes her eyes, and the four disappear from the ballroom.
[23:39] <Corwin> ---------
[23:40] <Corwin> Alita, Rei and Minako find themselves in front of a small reception desk, much like one hotels often use. It's strangely vacant.
[23:40] <PrincessMinako> Minako releases her hold upon Sylphiel and looks around the room.
[23:40] * Rei-chan notices that the flames on her arm have moved away from her hand after she touched Sylphiel, and she experiments with moving them around her body a bit after letting the Priestess go.
[23:41] <Corwin> "Silvia? Mariko?" Sylphiel calls out. "Greta?"
[23:42] <Corwin> Rei manages to move the fire a few centimeters, before it returns stubbornly to its original location.
[23:43] <Corwin> There's a yawn from Minako's arms, and Artemis opens his eyes, looking around blearily. "Where are we, Mina?" he asks.
[23:43] <Rei-chan> "That was nice of you to say, Alita," Rei says to the other girl, after she finishes with the knuckle dusters, "But these librarians are a LOT better than me. I could barely touch the one I fought yesterday, though he had no problems touching ME," she shivers at the memory.
[23:43] <Corwin> Sylphiel disappears further into the building.
[23:44] <Corwin> "Don't worry, I'll protect you, then!" Alita says cockily.
[23:45] <PrincessMinako> Minako looks down at the feline. "We're looking for some priestess, Arty. And then we're off to fight some perverts," she says cheerfully.
[23:46] <Rei-chan> "I'm sure with all of us we'll be able to handle them," Rei says, sounding a bit more upbeat.
[23:46] <Corwin> "Oh no!" Sylphiel exclaims, returning, her eyes wild. "No one's around! They must've heard, somehow, and ran away!"
[23:46] * Rei-chan stumbles slightly.
[23:47] <Corwin> "What should we do? What should we do?" Sylphiel repeats to herself. "I'm too young to die...."
[23:47] <Rei-chan> "You'll only _wish_ you were dead after dealing with those perverts," Rei says grimly.
[23:47] <Corwin> "Perverts? Dying?" Artemis snorts. "I'll wait here, thanks." He jumps out of Minako's arms and onto the floor.
[23:48] <Corwin> "You know, your cat talks," Alita comments conversationally to Minako.
[23:49] <PrincessMinako> "But what if they're gone because the perverts came here and tied them up. Just waiting for us to come rescue them and they leap out at any moment," Minako calls to Artemis. "Unfortunately, I know," Minako replies to Alita without missing a beat.
[23:49] <Corwin> "It must be a pain," Alita says, nodding.
[23:50] <Corwin> Artemis, however, is fast asleep on a sofa found in the reception room.
[23:50] <PrincessMinako> "You have noo idea," Minako says as she lowers and shakes her head sadly.
[23:51] <Rei-chan> "Where will we start looking? They could be anywhere..." Rei muses, looking at Sylphiel for any suggestions.
[23:52] <Corwin> "First, you must change," Sylphiel says, handing out three priestess outfits she materializes seemingly out of thin air. "Then, we'll have to teleport over to the library."
[23:53] <Corwin> Sylphiel holds up a strange device which reminds Rei of the Mercury Computer. "I can track them with this, if I'm close enough. Or, at the very least, pick up their trail."
[23:53] <Rei-chan> Looking around, and noticing no one else is around but 'us girls', Rei shrugs and quickly removes her dress, throwing it on top of Artemis before donning the outfit Sylphiel provided.
[23:54] <PrincessMinako> Minako takes the proffered outfit, noting it can't be worse to fight in then her current attire. Following Rei's lead, she quickly changes.
[23:54] <Corwin> Alita changes as well.
[23:55] <Corwin> "Hold on to me again," Sylphiel asks, and once the three do so, yells, "I hate you all, you cowards! I'm never buying you lunch again!" just before she teleports away.
[23:55] <Corwin> ---------
[23:56] <Corwin> Rei and Alita recognize the reception desk of the library as soon as their eyes clear. Minako, however, just stares at the foam-covered place.
[23:56] <Rei-chan> "Can you track them?" Rei asks, letting go of Sylphiel.
[23:57] <Corwin> Sylphiel tinkers with her device for a few moments. "I'm getting a reaction... my God, there are five-- how?!"
[23:57] * Rei-chan chokes. "Five?! I thought there were just the two of them?!"
[23:58] <Corwin> Sylphiel laughs hysterically. "They couldn't have interbred. It's impossible!"
[23:58] <Corwin> The priestess begins typing furiously.
[23:58] <PrincessMinako> Minako looks wide-eyed at Sylphiel.
[23:59] * Rei-chan turns green at the thought of them breeding.
[23:59] <Corwin> "Games... to Misha, collection of dresses to Serenity...." Sylphiel mumbles, typing.
[00:00] <Corwin> "Hey, where's the closest one?" Alita asks.
[00:03] <Corwin> "At Serenity's Enemies," Sylphiel replies eventually, snapping out of her hysteria. "How fitting."
[00:03] <Corwin> Alita nods. "I'll go scout ahead. You three follow me and watch my back, k?"
[00:04] <Rei-chan> "Well, at least they're still in the library, right?" Rei says, following Alita while looking around warily.
[00:05] <Corwin> Alita jogs ahead, while Sylphiel follows at a normal pace, her nose buried in the device.
[00:05] <Corwin> "Oh my!" the priestess exclaims.
[00:06] <Rei-chan> "What?" Rei asks in alarm, her nerves pretty frayed.
[00:06] <Corwin> "There are ten of them now!"
[00:07] <Rei-chan> "That thing has to be broken!" Rei yells, half-hysterical as she points at the device in Sylphiel's hands.
[00:08] <Corwin> Sylphiel drops it at Rei's yell, the device slamming against the ground. "Well, it certainly is now," the priestess whines.
[00:09] * Rei-chan groans. "I'm sorry, but... ten?! How is that possibly possible?!"
[00:10] <Corwin> "Well, amoeba--" Sylphiel cuts herself off. "Something's coming!"
[00:11] <Rei-chan> "Where?" Rei spins around, looking in every direction she can.
[00:12] <Corwin> Sylphiel releases a beam of light to the left, catching a diminutive form with it. However, instead of pushing the attacker back, it doesn't seem to halt him the slightest!
[00:21] <Corwin> With a battle cry of "Breast imprints!" the tiny pervert flies at Rei, his little hands outstretched!
[00:23] <Rei-chan> Nimbly ducking under the flying pervert, Rei then spins round and lashes out with her Flame Whip, hoping to entangle him and hinder his damnable mobility, in addition to causing a world of pain!
[00:25] <Corwin> The pervert moans, getting wrapped up in the whip and then slammed against the ground.
[00:28] <Corwin> "D-Damn you," Lucky gasps, glaring daggers at Rei.
[00:31] <PrincessMinako> Minako watches, impressed with Rei's dexterity, running up she raises a fist and smashes it into his face.
[00:33] <Corwin> Minako's fist slams into the ground next to the aged pervert, as she misjudges his height.
[00:37] <Corwin> "Feel the wrath of an artist scorned!" the diminutive thing cries out, his arms freeing themselves from the whip and pink energy gathering between his cupped palms.
[00:38] <Corwin> A large, panty-shaped pink blast erupts from his outstretched hands, headed for Rei!
[00:39] <Corwin> Rei tries to duck under the blast, but the panty of pink grows as it travels towards her, smacking the girl in the face.
[00:41] <Corwin> "And you!" Lucky exclaims, turning his head to glare at Minako. "You tried to take an old man's remaining pleasure from him!"
[00:41] <Corwin> Minako is blasted with a glowing, pink bra.
[00:43] <Corwin> Minako is sent flying back by the bra, which burns off a considerable portion of the top of her outfit.
[00:43] * Rei-chan is too busy with her own pain to notice the otherwise distracting sight....
[00:44] <PrincessMinako> Straightening herself, a now furious Minako takes aim and fires a Crescent Beam at the little old lech.
[00:47] <Corwin> Lucky bounces his feet against the floor, and twists out of the way, the beam cutting through the whip instead. He stands up, dusting himself off, and suddenly leers at Minako.
[00:49] <Rei-chan> Growling with rage, Rei lunges at the pervert, her brass knuckle wearing fist reared back to deliver a punishing blow to his tiny frame!
[00:50] <Corwin> Lucky easily bounces out of range, not even acknowledging Rei as he keeps on leering at Minako's chest.
[00:53] <Corwin> "I forgive you, baby!" Lucky cries out, flinging himself at Minako's chest with what looks like a clay mould.
[00:55] <PrincessMinako> Minako looks at the decrepit old man and blanches, barely recognizing his words as she attempts to jump out of the way.
[00:59] <Corwin> Minako almost manages to escape the old man. Just as she thinks she's in the clear, a cold sensation from her chest informs her otherwise. Looking down, she sees the pervert smile at her, his eyes shining with unshed tears, as he makes a breast imprint.
[01:00] <Corwin> "By all that is holy, begone!" Sylphiel calls out then, having chanted from the beginning of the battle.
[01:01] <Corwin> A corona of light surrounds her, and then lashes out at the pervert, which leaps away just in time, sans his clay, which takes the brunt of the attack.
[01:02] <Corwin> "Oh no," Sylphiel says in fright, stepping back.
[01:03] <Rei-chan> Still crouched slightly from her previous attack, Rei strikes out with her whip at the evil little troll.
[01:05] <Corwin> The whip misses the aged pervert, who seems to be taking Rei seriously again, now that his precious clay had been shattered.
[01:06] <PrincessMinako> Growing more and more upset by the minute, Minako fires off another shot at the pervert.
[01:08] <Corwin> Lucky barely manages to dance out of the way, scowling at Minako. "You're being a naughty girl again," he lectures the blonde.
[01:12] <Rei-chan> Drawing her whip back from it's last wild attack, Rei cracks it out once more, desperately trying to end the little bastard's wretchedly overlong life.
[01:13] <Corwin> Moving past the whip, Lucky fires another bra-shaped blast at Rei.
[01:14] <Corwin> The blast eats away at Rei's top, just like it had for Minako. The pervert stops, a second blast he had been preparing dissipating.
[01:18] <PrincessMinako> Minako, wondering what she did to the gods to have her aim and luck leave her so harshly, fires another Crescent Beam at the pervert.
[01:19] <Corwin> Lucky, distracted by Rei's bare chest, doesn't even move to dodge as he is blasted by the golden beam.
[01:20] <Corwin> Holding a heart-shaped rod, Sylphiel tries to slam it against Lucky's head, missing due to the fact that she's shaking too much.
[01:21] <Corwin> "I'm angry now!" the old pervert proclaimed, shaking his head and giving all three a glare. With uncanny agility, he sped around the room, sending a groping hand at each of them.
[01:23] <Corwin> Sylphiel shrieks and draws away on pure instinct before Lucky could touch her, and the other two women slap his wandering hands away.
[01:24] <Rei-chan> Even though she is severely pained from those two energy blasts, Rei still manages to focus enough to punch out at Lucky, aiming to pulp his rotten little head.
[01:26] <Corwin> The pervert brings up his tiny hands to block Rei's punch, grunting from the effort. "It'll take more than that to do me in, girly!" he boasts.
[01:27] <PrincessMinako> Enthused from the success of her last attack, she attempts to blast the pervert away with another Crescent Beam.
[01:28] <Corwin> Due to the pervert's position, he doesn't manage to twist out of the way in time, and is blasted by Minako's attack, bouncing off the floor and into Rei's chest.
[01:29] <Corwin> Sylphiel tries to strike Lucky again with her heart-shaped rod, but doesn't reach him, afraid to tag Rei as well.
[01:32] <PrincessMinako> Worried about her potential teammate, instead of a conventional attack, Minako attempts to grab the pervert and slam him into the ground.
[01:36] <Corwin> Batting Minako's hands away, Lucky shakes his head, before nuzzling Rei's chest lovingly.
[01:37] <Corwin> As he keeps on nuzzling it, Lucky idly bats away another strike from Sylphiel, murmuring something unintelligible.
[01:39] * Rei-chan brings both her arms out, before swinging them in to crush the little bastard's head between her two fists.
[01:40] <Corwin> Lucky leans further into Rei's cleavage, narrowly escaping the attack.
[01:42] * Rei-chan tries to grab Lucky off her chest before drop kicking him away.
[01:44] <Corwin> Lucky doesn't resist as Rei grabs him. He begins protesting as he's pulled away from her bosom, but her foot silences his objections. The old pervert is sent flying into a bookcase far into the distance, splattering against its side.
[01:45] * Rei-chan feels her heart burn with justice as the pervert meets his deserved fate!
[01:46] <Corwin> "Yay! Yay! The pervert's dead!" Sylphiel cheers, waving the heart-shaped rod like a baton.
[01:48] <PrincessMinako> Minako looks at Sylphiel and snorts.
[01:48] <Rei-chan> "We'd better catch up with Alita," Rei says, wincing slightly in pain as she wraps her cloak around her front before running onwards.
[01:46] <Corwin> "Only nine more to go!" Sylphiel continues happily.
[01:48] <Corwin> "Make that seven," a female voice says grimly. A second later, Alita emerges from beyond another bookshelf.
[01:48] <Corwin> She gives a glance at the splattered pervert, and snorts. "Nice job. Your finishing touch, Rei?"
[01:49] <Rei-chan> "Alita!" Rei stops short, "You fought two of them?!" she asks, her estimation of the girl rising sharply, before adding, "Yeah, I got that one."
[01:49] <Corwin> Rei, Minako and Sylphiel see that Alita looks like hell, her cape torn off and the rest of the outfit in tatters.
[01:49] <Corwin> Somehow, she still looks more presentable than either Rei or Minako.
[01:51] <Corwin> "I think a strategic retreat is in order," Alita suggests, heading towards her companions. "We won't get them all before it's too late."
[01:51] <PrincessMinako> Minako nods in agreement.
[01:52] <Rei-chan> "I hate to let them live, but you're probably right.... I haven't taken a beating like today in a very long time..." Rei says sadly. "Maybe they can seal the library and bomb it from orbit after we leave?"
[01:53] <Corwin> "One of them talked before he dropped," Alita says. "They've found a way to teleport their buddies in. It's not going to be pretty."
[01:53] <Rei-chan> "Teleport from where?" Rei asks, moving towards Sylphiel so the priestess can teleport them all the hell out of here.
[01:54] <Corwin> "All over." Alita shrugs. "How the hell would I know where you guys grow these freaks?"
[01:55] <Corwin> Alita turns to look at Sylphiel. "Now would be a good time for that neat teleporting trick."
[01:56] <Corwin> Sylphiel blushes. "Umm... I kinda spent all my energy on that blast? Which missed?"
[01:56] * Rei-chan shakes her head. "Wherever they came from, if they're all here, I think losing a few books to wipe them all out is an acceptable loss."
[01:58] * Rei-chan looks at Sylphiel, then back towards the entrance. "Think we can make a run for it?"
[01:58] <Corwin> Sylphiel looks at Rei, then at the long corridor leading further inside the building, and bolts for the exit.
[01:59] <Corwin> "There's your response," Alita says, chuckling, as she takes off after Sylphiel.
[01:59] * Rei-chan follows, running as fast as she can.
[01:59] <PrincessMinako> "Should you just teleport us out of here...." Minako interjects, but decides chasing after the others is better than asking.
[02:01] <Corwin> ---------