Verse 1-Unintetional Meeting
Physday, 24th Of Whislate, Essence Of Snowfall 2995 A.M., 12:00 Set
Public Transit Of Big Central, Compass-Star
NARRATOR-Tension hadn’t quite yet gripped the capital at that point, but whatever was closest to that feeling had gripped it tightly. The moment before you rip off a band aid or right before castle walls come crumbling down, business as usual while stepping on a tight rope. Jongleurs out killing each other with a gym coach as an unrelated incident? Or was someone skulking in the shadows of Big Central killing whoever was unfortunate to cross their path? It was that uncertainty that kept the capital functioning at that point & since things were still moving, Kayjay hadn’t caught notice of the uncertainty. It was something that Marrijane was thankful for as she spent day after day looking into any connecting details between murders, knowing a fat bounty would soon be on the way once a target was confirmed. She’d have Kayjay work with her on jobs like planned, drop him off at a new gym to try out & then gather any dirt she could before meeting up with him to finish up the day. A routine Kayjay got used to & Marrijane had mastered in the seven days prior to this Track’s events..
KAYJAY-(Holding tightly to the hand railings of the packed Public Transit Swansong (P.T.S), trying not to fall over) So…why didn’t ya’ have me try out this gym in W.D. first?
[KACEY “KAYJAY” SMITH-The Fledgling Smith, Male, Age 18, Job-Part Timer, Status: Questioning The Roundabout Approach.]
MARRIJANE-(Holding the hand railings much easier than him) Because I made sure each place you’ve tried out was near where I’d have a good cluster of jobs. Today that just happened W.D. This gym in particular is also pretty eh in all honesty, might even be a Koin laundering front.
[MARRIJANE-The Scarlet Girl, Female, Age 17, Job-Amateur Musician, Status: Making Smart Business Moves.]
KAYJAY-(Looking out the window, lightly shaking his head at her reply) So what exactly am I supposed to do if it is a Koin launderin’ front?
MARRIJANE-(Her right eye sparkled almost as brightly as a platinum Koin) You’d call me, I’d come bust the whole operation & we cash out all the richer for a job well done.
KAYJAY-(Sarcastic tone) Sooo cool, I jus’ love being bait for ya’ work.
MARRIJANE-Hey, dude, you are more than welcome to find yourself a job that doesn’t involve becoming a human lure. Until you do though…you’ll just have to keep on playing your part.
KAYJAY-(Fake laugh) Fantastic. Let’s hope this gym will be the one that can actually work with me.
MARRIJANE-(Goin with the flow of the Swansong as it made a rough turn) Still can’t believe that you’ve been turned down by six gyms in a row. What exactly is the problem though? What’s making you such a bad fit?
KAYJAY-(Shrugging as he barely stopped himself from falling over the same turn) That’s the thing…they all give me a different answer. The first one in N.D. said I jus’ don’t have the talent. The second almost worked me to death with their work out schedule. The one in NW.D said that they really only specialize in trainin’ their employees & I lacked the skill required. The first one in NE.D said that they don’t see how someone with my build could use a giant mallet. The second one laughed in my face when I said I couldn’t use my Presence yet. Then the one in E.D. told me that I’m the type that needs to find a coach or Maestro that can sync with me due to my lack of…
MARRIJANE-Lack of what-
KAYJAY-I don’t know! They didn’t even bother specifyin’. Everythin’ I guess…(Clutching the hand railing tighter) I’m not goin’ to lie, it’s been pretty frustratin’.
MARRIJANE-(Tapping her finger against the hand railing, being impatient at the P.T.S ahead of them moving a bit slow) I can see that being the case. But hey, you don’t have to get a job out here that involves you being a Sonicnaut. You could easily find something more suited to the skillset you have. Hell, there aren’t many Soundsmiths out here, even an apprentice could corner the market.
KAYJAY-(Watching as the P.T.S they were on managed to get around the slower one ahead of them. Seeing a glimpse of Marrijane’s finger tapping.) I already considered it, but ultimately that's a no for me. I left home to find what I wanted to do or be, it would defeat the purpose of the trip if I jus’ did Soundsmithin’ again.
MARRIJANE-(Seeing Kayjay’s stop quickly approaching) That’s fair I guess, but even still, you don’t have to fight. Why are you so set on learning?
KAYJAY-(Preparing to exit) I don’t know, honestly…
STATIC-Yes the fuck ya’ do!
KAYJAY-(Ignoring the Static as he continued) It’s jus’ somethin’ I sort of feel like I have to do. If that makes any sense, hah.
MARRIJANE-Eh, nothing really makes sense out here. I'll meet up with you in a few hours, got some jobs to hit in the Southwest District.
KAYJAY-(Nodding) Okay. (Smirking) I’ll call ya’ if any money launderin’ goes down.
MARRIJANE-(Straight faced) I was so damn serious about that, dude.
NARRATOR-Kayjay waved her off as he exited the Public Transit. He watched it pull off, but felt a bit uneasy as he did. He stood at the stop so long the other P.T.S had caught up. Marrijane looked more serious, she was alone & had business to attend to. She pulled out her Phonograph & began reading over some information Jobber had sent her that morning.
4 Clover Swansong Lot In W.D., Big Central, Compass-Star, 6:05 Rise.
MARRIJANE-(Surprised) Wait, you really have something for me?
JOBBER-(Looking at her from inside his booth as he sipped his coffee. Speaking bluntly.) I’m hurt.
[JOBBER-The Luckiest Unluckiest, Male, Age 42, Job-Swansong Lot Owner/MP3 Information Broker, Status: He’s Hurt…No, Seriously.]
MARRIJANE-(Rolling her eyes) Maybe you should’ve considered acting after your forced Musician retirement, you had me thinking you were truly heartbroken just now.
JOBBER-(Nodding, still straight faced) Yeah, I’m prime star power.
MARRIJANE-Come on, dude, it’s not like you’ve had anything good for me so far.
JOBBER-I told you it would be a touchy subject, you know the Orchestration doesn’t want to throw people in a frenzy. I finally managed to get one of their early potential suspects though.
MARRIJANE-(Smiling, her tone softening) You don’t always come through, Jobber, but when you do, it’s a fucking gem.
JOBBER-(Taking a long dramatic sip of his coffee before he pulled out his Phonograph) Now keep in mind that these are potential suspects, so they may be completely innocent when it comes to this. These guys are still a pretty shady group though, so worse case scenario, you cash in a solid bounty.
Southwest District, Big Central, Compass-Star, 12:55 Set.
NARRATOR-Marrijane exited the Public Transit, stepping foot into the downtown streets of SW.D. Her surroundings weren’t something she often saw, but they were still sights she was familiar enough with. It was a relatively relaxed district in terms of foot traffic, though there were still enough people in the area for work. People often came here to shop within their means. It wasn’t nearly as bougie as N.D., & it wasn’t as much of an attraction as C.D., but it was perfect for the everyday folks that lived in the capital. Marrijane followed the directions Jobber had sent her, leaving the P.T.S stop behind her as the slower Swansong had finally pulled in. Her destination wasn’t too far, a short walk leading her to a closed drug store. Its blue accents were dusted over & the white paint had already begun chipping away. The doors were blocked off with Tunelite lined shutters, but it wasn’t enough to stop Marrijane from hearing numerous Volumes inside as she focused on them.
MARRIJANE-(Her mind starting to form a plan) Four…no, five. Looks like all their main members are here. I can force my way in & catch them by surprise. If I catch the boss first, then the rest of them will probably fall in line without much of a struggle. If that doesn't work, there’s always the new Song I’ve been playing with, but is it ready? Oh well, I guess now will be the best time to practice...
NARRATOR-As she slowly relaxed from her deep focus, she immediately felt something off. She turned around, seeing a couple trash cans & a couch on the side of the streets. She sighed.
MARRIJANE-Dude…you have to have lost your mind, because ain’t no fucking way.
KAYJAY-(Quickly popping up from behind the couch with a nervous grin) Oh…hey, Marri. What ya’ doin’ all the way out here?
MARRIJANE-(Glaring) Says the one that was supposed to be at the gym in W.D. Explain.
KAYJAY-(Sighing, knowing there was no way out of it.) Well…ever since I’ve been tryin’ out gyms, I realized ya’ hadn’t really asked me about any of them until today. Then I saw how impatient ya’ got with the other P.T.S, like ya’ wanted to get to where you were goin’ quick. It all jus’ started makin’ me feel like ya’ had somethin’ to hide & the gym thing was jus’ an excuse. I was gonna let it go, but when I saw the other P.T.S catch up again, I thought of a book I read one time. The main character had a hunch they kept blowin’ off until one day they looked into somethin’ on a whim & their suspicions were proven right. So I hoped on, followed your Volume signature saved in my goggles, & snuck over here to see what you were up to. Come to find ya’ focused heavy on this old buildin’.
MARRIJANE-(Shocked as she tried to think up a response) All the experience he has is from books, shows & games & still manages to piece shit together. Is his brain just wired differently or what? (Scoffing) You know there’s an old saying I’ve heard before. I think it was like…curiosity killed the cat.
KAYJAY-(Smiling & nodding) Oh! I know that one! I read about it too. I think there’s a second part to it though…um…hm…oh. But satisfaction brought it back!
MARRIJANE-(Even more shocked) Oh, for Muse’s sake!
KAYJAY-Marri…tell me the truth. Is this about those murders I’ve been hearing about?
NARRATOR-Marrijane turned before she replied, just as Kayjay’s Crown Goggles beeped. A purple streak struck down at her like a bolt of lightning. Something sturdy & heavy clashed against Marrijane’s sword as she drew it to block. Kayjay’s eyes widened at the sight of a tall, muscular woman with bunny ears & large feet in a dead lock.
MARRIJANE-(Her Stage flaring up as a smirk formed on her face) Oh, I heard about you. The Fighter For Hire, right?
VIOLER-(Her smile matching her Stage) Finally, sum fun! I jus’ ran out of beer too!
[VIOLET V. VELVETEEN-The Violent Violet, Female, Age 21, Job-Fighter For Hire, Status: Thirsty For A Drink, Hungry For A Fight.]
Verse 2-A Brief Exchange
Physday, 24th Of Whislate, Essence Of Snowfall 2995 A.M., 1:08 Set
Southwest District, Big Central, Compass-Star
NARRATOR-The fight was on. Violet sprung off of her sword, landing on the ground, before bouncing off her large feet for any immediate follow up. Marrijane barely managed to evade her large foot slamming into her face as it passed by her like a thunderbolt. She turned to face where Violet had darted to, her flames stretching out to strike her from behind. Violet’s eyes sparkle as she sees the scarlet flames from the corner of her eyes. She smiles wide, springing off her feet & flipping over the Trailblazer. She landed behind Marrijane, preparing a roundhouse, aimed at the back of her head. Marrijane darted out of reach, her retracting flames bringing her towards a dumpster it had cut into.
MARRIJANE-(Trying to think of her next approach) She’s quick-
VIOLET-(The loud & quick steps of her feet filling Marrijane’s ears. A bigger smile on her face as it showed her fangs.) Damn, ya’ really good, gurl! Dis’ is already da’ best fight I’ve had since I came to Compass-Star!
MARRIJANE-(Eyes widened as she watched Violet cock back her fist as she charged) She’s faster than quick, the rumors about her were not over exaggerating at all.
NARRATOR-Violet’s fist fired off like a bullet, her form straight forward, but more traditional than what Marrijane was used to when facing Jongleurs. SMACK! Violet’s fist collided with Marrijane’s scabbard, sending the Musician flying as she lost grip of her sword. She tumbled along the ground as Violet darted in to follow up. She reached ahead of her, raising her leg to slam her heel into her ribs. Kayjay gazed upon a violent beast shrouded in a monstrous violet smile. His body screamed at him to move, but he was still much too slow to follow through successfully.
KAYJAY-(Slowly charging in to help) Marri!
NARRATOR-Violet’s foot was already crashing down, Kayjay wouldn’t even be half way there to make a difference. But Marrijane was still able to pick up her own slack, flames erupting around her as Violet’s heel was suddenly stopped short of her target. Marrijane had caught it between her flame covered hands like a blade, Stage glaring at Violet’s.
MARRIJANE-(Struggling to hold Violet’s attack at bay) It’s Marrijane & please just stay over there & pretend like you didn’t actually follow me here!
VIOLET-(Whistling) Damn! Ya’ know Audio Arts too, huh?
MARRIJANE-Just enough to get by in case I’m unarmed…not usually for when I have to fight an actual Audio Artist.
VIOLET-Damn, ya’ really flatterin’ a gurl, ya’ know. I’ve been so bored out hur, I almost forget dat I’m kinda’ famous.
MARRIJANE-(Her flames slowly growing more & more intense as she kept her focus) You’re selling yourself short, as if people don’t know about The Violent Violet that’s been turning small-time crime in Compass-Star on its head. (Her flames beginning to gather & focus more on her hands) I don’t plan on being a part of your impressive list of offenses though.
VIOLET-(Giggling, feeling Marrijane’s guard growing more shaky) I’m sure dat ya’ don’t, but how ya’ gonna’ do dat witout ya’ sword-oh…es gettin’ a lil toasty.
NARRATOR-Violet began to notice that the flames around Marrijane’s hands were about to erupt. Marrijane smirked as Violet started to pull away from on top of her.
MARRIJANE-I figured appealing to ego would buy time. Rough Red Off-Road-Trailblazer!
NARRATOR-A thin pillar of flames shot directly upward, their shape not as detailed as when Marrijane was armed, but enough to give the illusion of a crude blade. Violet had quickly shifted out of harm’s way, admiring the flame pillar as it faded into cinders in the wind. Her large ears suddenly twitched at the sound of metal scraping across the ground. She quickly sprung around to see Marrijane, who was now picking up her dropped sword.
VIOLET-(Her Stage radiating more fiercely) Ya’ used dat as was to get meh off ya’ & distract meh long enough to get ya’ Instrument back. Damn ya’ good! (A sudden thought sprung in her mind) Actually…I think I heard about dis gurl from somewhere before…
MARRIJANE-(Choosing to rush Violet as she dragged her sword along the ground, her Stage growing more intense around her as well.) I can’t match you in speed or raw strength, so I have to use my flames & my experience in street fighting to my advantage. I’m used to guys trying to slug me, but you’re by far the most talented Audio Artist I’ve ever encountered.
VIOLET-(Preparing to rush her, her Volume giving off a complex, but raw vibe) There ya’ go wit da’ flattery again…(Her eyes looking sharper & fiercer) Dat won’t cut it dis time though.
MARRIJANE-(Flames gathering in her sword as she dragged it along, sparks & embers flickering around her. The sharp, rhythmic nature of her Volume growing more intense in repose to Violet’s) I know that, I’m not stupid. We’re going to have to really run it from here on out, yeah?
VIOLET-Yeah. Ya’ ready?
MARRIJANE-Who the hell is ready to potentially get their ass kicked? Heh, I guess idiots like us.
NARRATOR-Kayjay’s goggles were delivering data to him almost too fast for him to catch completely. Their Volumes sounded completely different, their Musik from very different circumstances, but Kayjay could hear the truth within all the Feedback they were causing.
KAYJAY-(His mind racing) It almost sounds…no, it definitely sounds beautiful. This is beautiful. (A smile slowly forming on his face) I’m about to see two real Sonicnauts have a Performance on an equal playin’ field…
STATIC-(Excited) Hell yeah, nigga.
KAYJAY-Hell yeah.
NARRATOR-Violet made the first move, reaching Marrijane before Kayjay even realized she started moving. Marrijane was locked in entirely, she had been waiting for Violet to strike first, finally raising her flame-covered sword. It kicked up sparks & embers around her before cutting a blazing arc in Violet’s path. Violet wasn’t deterred, her Stage growing thicker to brace through the flames. She easily emerged through them, ready to deliver a left hook. Her strike was met with Marrijane’s scabbard instead of her intended target. Her eyes shifted over to the Musician, who was swinging her blade down over her head.
MARRIJANE-Split!
NARRATOR-Violet had a wide grin on her face as she swung her leg around while turning to face her attack. Her foot managed to graze against Marrijane’s elbow, throwing off the angle of her attack. Her blade struck the ground, kicking up more embers. Violet bounced off her back foot, pushing herself into a short hop as she prepared to drop her leg over Marrijane’s head. Her own version of the attack her opponent just attempted. Marrijane’s eyes trace the path of Violet’s foot, her Trailblazer pushing her into the air & out of harm’s way. Violet watched her shoot into the sky, pushing herself off the ground to pursue as soon as her foot cracked the concrete. She quickly caught up to Marrijane as she reached the peak of her ascent, managing to grab hold of her leg. Marrijane couldn’t shake her loose.
MARRIJANE-Damn, grappling Audio Arts too?
VIOLET-Gotta’ be well rounded to get da’ job done.
NARRATOR-Violet used the momentum of her rise to rotate her body. As she faced the ground, she tossed Marrijane towards it. She struggled to steady herself from the force of the Audio Artist's throw. She managed a Trailblazer just before hitting the ground, bringing herself to a rough & sudden stop. She then jumped out of the way, avoiding Violet’s lightning strike of a descent. Violet hit the ground, putting herself into a sprinter’s starting position as her Stage gathered up once again. Marrijane prepared herself, gathering her flames as she prepared a sword Thrust.
VIOLET-(Darting forward, faster than before with her left leg stretched out) Essence Of Leporidae-Rapid Rabbit!
MARRIJANE-(Her flames stretching dead ahead as she pushed her blade forward) Rough Red Road-Trailblazer!
NARRATOR-Violet’s leg had been surrounded by a thick layer of her Musik, the muscles looking a bit buffer as her pants leg fluttered in the wind. Her kick met in the middle with Marrijane’s sword strike, the clash brief, but causing even more Feedback as their Musikal aura clashed against each other. Kayjay could feel his body shaking as he observed, the smile on his face too big to hide.
KAYJAY-A fight between two, evenly matched Sonicnauts…it’s like their Musik is synchin’ up even more as they clash. This is amazin’. I want to do this too. I want to experience it too.
STATIC-(Teasing) As if ya’ ever could.
KAYJAY-(His eyes almost in a trance) I could…not jus’ from the outside like this, I want to feel what it’s like in a Performance like this. I want to be a part of one.
STATIC-Maybe try focusin’ on ya’ surroundins a bit more first, heh.
NARRATOR-Kayjay had let himself be fully captivated by the battle in front of him, so much so that he didn’t notice his Crown Goggles beeping, alerting him as three Volumes slithering right towards him. Marrijane & Violet’s clash ended in a draw, Violet’s aura covered kick proving a match against Marrijane’s flames. The two attacks extinguished each other, but not their wills to keep fighting. They went back to close quarters, Violet delivering a startling flourish of punches & Marrijane playing defense, attempting a big swing every time she caught a gap in her combos. The space around them began appearing slightly stranger to the two, almost surreal, but it wasn’t enough to break them from the fight.
VIOLET-(Giggling & smiling) Oh my Muse! I rememba’ now! You’re dat Musician gurl wit da’ hot tempa’ & sword! Duh! How could I forget ‘bout somethin’ like dat? Ya’ buddy even called ya’ name out earlier.
MARRIJANE-(Almost laughing at her lack of awareness) Dude, I know I’m not all that famous, but jeez, if you already heard of me, it would kind of be hard to not recognize who I am. (Looking annoyed) Also, he called me by the wrong name, even though I keep correcting him-
NARRATOR-Their brief exchange of words in that moment snapped them out of the world their brawl had set them to. Marrijane turned as she felt three Volumes, all huddled around where Kayjay was standing. She cursed to herself as she saw that Kayjay was being held with his hands behind his back by an Antropomórfico that looked like a copperhead snake-like woman with an irritated look on her face. Beside her was another Antropomórfico woman, looking more like a cottonmouth snake as she sipped from a giant plastic cup. Behind them both was a male Antropomórfico, looking closer to a black mamba, a stern, but exhausted look on his face.
VIOLET-(Playful smile) Whoops, looks like muh employers have gotten a lil impatient.
MARRIJANE-Whoops my ass, tell them to let him the fuck go.
Verse 3-Den Of Serpents
Physday, 24th Of Whislate, Essence Of Snowfall 2995 A.M., 1:18 Set
Southwest District, Big Central, Compass-Star
NARRATOR-The copperhead Antropomórfico was the shortest of the three, 5 '3, her bronzed skin covered in tanned colored scales. Her head & face were completely like a snake’s, her longer neck attached to a humanoid body, also covered in scales. She wore a brown tank top, a pair of tight dark blue jeans with a black belt tightly wrapped around them & brown slip-ons. She had her stank face focused okay Kayjay, her mouth slowly opening to reveal her fangs, dripping with venom.
COPPERHEAD-(Trying to hold back her obvious aggression) Just let me bite this little fucker already. I want to wipe that shit eating grin off his face.
KAYJAY-(Trying desperately to hold back his smile as his heart raced) I-I-I’m sorry?
COTTONMOUTH-(Savoring the juice from her cup before speaking, her voice a bit playful) Oh stop it, Vivica, just hold on for like five minutes.
NARRATOR-The Cottonmouth was a bit taller than the Copperhead, only a few inches, but a similar slim build, her bronzed skin covered in olive colored scales. She was in an olive t-shirt tied up at the bottom, a pair of jean shorts & flip flops. Her neck spun around playfully to match her bendy straw as she took another sip. The Black mamba sighed at the two women beside him as he looked over at the two doing battle further away.
BLACK MAMBA-(Remaining calm despite sounding exhausted) Cut the chatter & let's handle business. Scarlet, put the sword down & the fire out or else my homegirl is going to take a bite out of your buddy. Violet…do the job we paid you for & take the trash out while she’s unarmed.
NARRATOR-The Black Mamba was taller than the two women, standing at nearly 6ft, greyish scales over his bronzed skin. He wore a gray t-shirt with the sleeves ripped off, distressed black pants & gray high top sneakers.
VIOLET-(Looking disappointed) Awe, no way! Dats no fun at all, Viator. Lemme’ take da’ gurl on at her best, dis is da’ most fun I’ve had in foreva’.
MARRIJANE-(Holding on tightly to her sword) And I’m not dropping or putting out shit! Let him go & I’ll only burn you guys a little bit. I’m not making deals with anyone from Den Of Serpents.
COPPERHEAD-(Looking more annoyed as her mouth opened wider) You’re not the one in the position to negotiate, bitch!
MARRIJANE-(Glancing at Violet) Any of these guys hire ups in their Label?
VIOLET-(Nodding) Yup, yup, all three of them are big shots. The Coppa’ head is Vivica, the Cottonmouth is Rockwell & da’ Black Mamba is Viator. There is one otha’ top guy, he’s their big hitta’, but he's out on business. Da big boss man is inside tho, jus’ chillin’.
VIATOR-(Sighing & shaking his head) What was the point in telling her all that, Violet?
[VIATOR KIDDO-The Black Mamba, Male, Age 26, Job-Den Of Serpents Higher Up, Status: Tired Of The Nonsense.]
ROCKWELL-(Sipping more of her cup) I love how she’s always trying to stir the pot!
[ROCKWELL OH-The Cotton Mouth, Female, Age 22, Job-Den Of Serpents Higher Up, Status: Loving The Nonsense.]
VIVICA-(Mouth opened wide) Enough of this shit!
[VIVICA GREEN-The Copper Head, Female, Age 24, Job-Den Of Serpents Higher Up, Status: Was No Nonsense To Begin With.]
KAYJAY-(Struggling to break free from her grip, eyes wide) Whoa, whoa, whoa! Wait a minute!
STATIC-(Buzzing) Not gonna’ lie, dog, I’m kinda’ into this freaky shit.
MARRIJANE-(Darting right at them, her sword ready) Close you’re fuckin mouth!
VIATOR-(Standing between her & Vivica, his Stage forming into a creamy gray Black Mamba) Sorry, can’t let you through, don’t really feel like letting my boss down. You should’ve just dropped the sword.
MARRIJANE-Move! Shit, Kayjay, use that burst of Musik thing you do & shake her off!
NARRATOR-Kayjay stopped his struggling & took a breath as a huge burst of Musikal aura flowed out from his body. Vivica felt the strange sensation of his Musik shoot past her as his Volume briefly increased. She was a bit thrown off by the image of his Stage forming around her, but her grip remained tight as she remained standing.
KAYJAY-Crap.
MARRIJANE-What the hell, it didn’t do anything?
VIOLET-(Already catching up with Marrijane) Well yea, he ain’t gonna do much jus’ throwin’ his Musik to da’ wind like dat.
MARRIJANE-(Turning & bracing for an attack) Not you again-(She held off on attacking when she saw Violet approaching casually.)
VIOLET-(Her eyes focused over on Kayjay) Hey, kid! Don’t jus’ let it all leak out like dat!
KAYJAY-(Looking over at her as he struggled, feeling Vivica’s cold breath brushing along his face & hair.) Then what the hell are ya’ expectin’ me to do?
VIOLET-(A big smile forming on her face as she heard his accent) Oh! Sounds like ya’ from Urban West, huh?
KAYJAY-(Surprised) Oh, uh…yeah, yeah I am actually.
VIATOR-Violet, stop playing around & do what we paid you to do.
VIOLET-(Ignoring him as she kept speaking to Kayjay) Heheh, well lemme throw muh fello country bumpkin a lil bone. Instead of throwin’ et all out, think ‘bout somethin’ dat grounds ya’. Somethin’ ya’ can take aim at & physically touch & think ‘bout touchin’ et. (Her eyes catching sight of his large mallet) Heeeey…Soundsmith? (Watching Kayjay nod) Nice! Dis will be easy as hell den. Jus’ think ‘bout hittin’ somethin’ ya’ smithin’ on & release it in dat one moment.
VIVICA-(Mouth still opened wide) Is she giving him advice!? Screw this, I’ll just bite the kid’s head off now!
ROCKWELL-(Giggling as she pointed over at Marrijane) I wouldn’t try it just yet, it would cause quite the stir.
MARRIJANE-(Her flames charged up around her blade as she & her Stage watched them closely) The moment you do it, I’ll be having three charred snake heads to serve up.
KAYJAY-(Panic in his voice but a smile on his face that matched Violet’s) But…hittin’ a person & hittin’ some Tunelite are jus’ two different things…everyone told me that doesn’t translate right.
VIOLET-(Waving off his concern) Folks dat say thangs like dat jus’ aren’t creative enough. Ya’ use what ya’ know as baseline & then ya’ build up from there. Everyone starts from somewhere, right? Now go for et.
MARRIJANE-(Thinking) She’s helping him? What is up with this girl?
KAYJAY-I…I uh…
VIATOR-(Sighing, anticipating what came next) Violet, please just do what you were paid-
VIOLET-Go for et, kid!
NARRATOR-Kayjay closed his eyes & took a breath once again, envisioning himself back in the family Sound Station. His mom was right behind him, checking & correcting his form. His sister, shadowed in the back with her arms crossed, observing & nodding. He could feel the flow of his Musik welling up from the pit of his stomach, throughout his body & all the way to his finger tips. As the Musik poured into the mallet he envisioned, he could feel his body swinging it down right as it made contact with Tunelite in front of him. As his eyes opened he could feel his struggle shift to one solid motion, his arms stretching out as his Stage’s wings spread wide. The focused shockwave of Musikal aura allowed him to break away from Vivica’s grip & knock her flat on her back. Rockwell already had her neck uncoiling, stretching out to bite into Kayjay’s exposed torso. Viator was also already on the offensive as he quickly turned & approached him in a slithering motion. Kayjay lacked the reaction speed, but the two experienced Sonicnauts on his side had his back.
This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.
Rockwell felt her uncoiling neck rapidly spin out & stretch away from Kayjay, Violet’s kick sending her flying. Her cup fell from her grip & splattered all over the concrete where she had once stood. Viator’s slithering had quickly come to a stop as his Stage intensified & gathered around him while raising his arms. Flames scraped against his scales as Marrijane’s Trailblazer grinded along them, pushing him further away from his original target. The girls then quickly took point beside Kayjay, Marrijane on his right & Violet on his left. All Kayjay could do was be in awe of the two.
MARRIJANE-(Keeping her eyes on Viator) You good?
KAYJAY-(Nodding as he reached for his mallet) Yeah, I’m pretty sure I am at least. Thank ya’, Violet.
VIOLET-(Her fist up as she bounced on her feet in her chaotic rhythm, her focus locked on Rockwell) Don’t mention et! Us fellow country bumpkins gotta’ stick togetha’!
KAYJAY-(Looking a little embarrassed) Well, I wouldn’t go that far…
MARRIJANE-(Still suspicious of Violet) So what’s the deal with you? I thought you were hired by them, yet you decided to change teams because of the country boy? I don’t buy it.
VIATOR-(Watching them as he cracked his knuckles & his Stage flowed back up around him) Yeah, I’d also like to know why our well behaved employee suddenly decided to just quit on us now.
ROCKWELL-(Already back on her feet, her neck back to being coiled like a silly straw) Awe man, my juice! That’s not cool at all, bunny lady. (Her Stage taking the shape of an olive colored cottonmouth snake, venom dripping from its fangs) But it’ll be interesting to hear what excuse you have for the boss.
VIOLET-(Not even taking a second to think about it) Well, I was only workin’ wit these guys cuz’ I heard they have a lot of pull in Compass-Star’s Label underground. I could fight tough Jongleurs & keep ‘em from botherin’ folks, keep watch of these snakes & make sum Koin for drinks. Win-win-win!
NARRATOR-Everyone was silent as they heard Violet’s true motives, a mix of reactions from all of them. Kayjay was shocked, Marrijane scoffed & rolled her eyes, Viator just shook his head, Rockwell simply giggled & Vivica stood from her previous setback, a tanned Stage in the form of a copperhead snake with a mean glare gathering around her.
VIATOR-(Hands raised for combat) So you were using us…can’t say I’m not surprised.
MARRIJANE-(Her blade pointed at Viator) Kayjay, get ready.
ROCKWELL-(Smiling as Violet) I’ll make you buy me a new cup before I bite you, okay?
KAYJAY-(Shaky grin as he held his mallet tightly) No runnin’ away now then, huh?
VIVICA-(Eyes right on Kayjay) There’ll hardly even be bones left once we’re through with you!
VIOLET-(Smiling at Rockwell so big her fangs were on full display) Been waitin’ to fight ya’ll!
Verse 4-Like A Snake
Physday, 24th Of Whislate, Essence Of Snowfall 2995 A.M., 1:21 Set
Southwest District, Big Central, Compass-Star
NARRATOR-The one on one had been interrupted & became three on three split into their own one on ones, everyone putting the blame on Violet. Viator rushed Marrijane, sliding spiked brass knuckles over his fist. Marrijane didn’t waver, ready for his approach. His right shot out at her quicker than expected, but not nearly matching the speed she had encountered only a few minutes prior. She stepped to the side while swinging her sword across his chest, but her blade was met with resistance. The grinding that sounded like metal against metal, Viator’s left spiked knuckle deflecting the flow of her strike. As soon as it was flung off course, he took advantage of the opening, his neck extending, his fangs bared to dig into her neck. Marrijane shifted her body forward, the scabbard behind her back tilting with her, adding a buffer between her neck & a snake bite. As soon as Viator bit into the scabbard, she bashed her sword’s pommel into his face, the heat radiating around her body & Instrument burning his flesh & heating up his scales. He stumbled back as his neck retreated towards him, Marrijane shuffling in to finish him.
MARRIJANE-(Swinging her blade) Slice!
NARRATOR-Clang! Her attack slammed into the hard metal of Viator’s knuckles, his arms crossed to block. Marrijane pressed the attack, stepping forward to have her swing's followthrough push his arms apart. His arms separated, but his head wasn’t where it should have been. His neck stretched low, his head darting straight for her torso. Marrijane leaped back to avoid him, but she didn’t catch on to his trick soon enough, his fangs scraping along her side. Her shirt was left with some thin tears, redness from blood & irritation.
MARRIJANE-(Looking more irritated than panicked) Trickier than I thought.
VIATOR-(Cracking his knuckles as he slowly began inching forward) We have to be out here, we never had a choice. Antropomórfico don’t usually have to worry about B.S. like discrimination these days, but when you look like a snake, they all treat you like one. (Shrugging) So we might as well act like them & get our piece.
MARRIJANE-(Her eyes trying to sneak glances at Kayjay to see how he was doing) Hey man, I don’t blame you for all that, I’ve had to put in work boots to the ground too. I honestly just came for information, but I knew violence was probably going to be the only result. (Noticing Kayjay stumbling, struggling just to defend against Vivica) Let me just-(Quickly blocking Viator’s strike, his right jab aimed for her neck) Oh, fuck you! Slash! (She quickly shifted from defense to offense as she made a horizontal slash, but it was again deflected by his left hand.)
VIATOR-(His neck spiraling forward as it stretched out) That graze should have still delivered enough venom to get the job done. You moving around like this will only make it work faster…(sighing) If Violet just followed the boss’s orders, there’d be nothing to worry about.
NARRATOR-As their dance of strike & counter continued, Kayjay was stuck on a barely manageable defense. Vivica was angry & it showed in each swift & violent motion of her dagger. It curved in a wavy pattern like a snake fang racing towards your throat as she swung at him with either hand, juggling it between them with each attack. The best Kayjay could do was focus on not getting stabbed. Raising his mallet & calling upon his Musikal aura just as a strike was coming at him. He was only just barely able to time them right, if any action he made was even a second off, he’d be bleeding out in the dirty streets of the Southwest District.
Vivica would swing a wide arc with her right hand only for Kayjay to hold the handle of his mallet in front of himself to push it back. She would toss it into her left hand & swing it straight down over his head only for him to step back while holding up his mallet above himself, his sudden Musikal aura shockwave causing her to drop the blade. She would then get low & catch the dagger in her right hand as she went to stab him in the stomach, only for Kayjay to lower his mallet from the shockwave force of when he had raised it, once again leading to another blocked attack. Vivica looked like a tanned ball of hate as she continued to attack, not sure if her opponent was getting lucky, or if he had gained some sort of read on her.
VIVICA-(Angered, still attacking him) So what? You’ve just been playing dumb this whole time!? You keep finding new ways to get on my damn nerves!
KAYJAY-(Still just barely managing to block as he tried to calm her) No! Not at all! This is like the third time I’ve been in a fight like ever!
VIVICA-(She suddenly stopped attacking, clutching her dagger tightly in her right hand) Excuse me? Please tell me you’re fucking joking…
KAYJAY-(Confused) Uh..wait what did I say that seemed like a joke?
STATIC-(Laughing) Oh, you went & fucked up now! I love to see ya’ continued failure.
VIVICA-(Her Stage growing more intense & violent looking as she prepared to strike again) So now you’re just going to flaunt your natural gifts in my damn face! Huh!?
KAYJAY-(Stepping back slowly as he clutched his mallet tightly, his heart pounding as he Crown Goggles beeped in response to her increasing Volume) Please, I’m not kiddin’ around about this. I don’t even know how I’m gettin’ this lucky! (Unaware of his thrilled smile coming back up on his face)
VIVICA-And stop smiling in my fucking face!
NARRATOR-She went back on the assault, forcing Kayjay to step back & try to get away from her, still managing to block her attacks each time.
KAYJAY-(Mind racing) It is weird though, I’m barely managin’ these blocks, but I don’t know how I’m even doin’ that…it’s strange. I almost kinda feel like…like I can hear how her movements are matching up with her Musik & Volume…
NARRATOR-Violet smiled wide as she snuck glances at Kayjay & Marrijane’s fights, all while easily avoiding & countering any strike that was coming from Rockwell. She was smiling too while playfully giggling. She was attacking unarmed, her body covered in her olive Stage as Violet easily kept swatting away her hands. Rockwell came in low, attempting to reach for her throat with both hands, but was met with a big open palm smack to her face from Violet’s left hand. Her head rattled as her neck uncoiled, but she just kept smiling, now adding her darting bites to her flourish of attacks. Violet hardly seemed to speed up as she began to block all three attacks with ease & still managing to deliver counter blows. Rockwell’s right grab miss, Violet returning it with a left jab to the face. Rockwell stumbled a bit, but she still attempted to rake at her opponent’s eyes with her left hand. Violet easily swatted her reach away with her right hand before kicking her in the chest. Rockwell looked like she was about to fall over, but she instead just blushed, seemingly enjoying the damage she was taking.
ROCKWELL-(Giggling as her neck quickly unraveled) Come one! Hit me harder! Harder! I haven’t felt nearly enough pain to submit to you yet! (Her head darting at her throat almost instantaneously)
NARRATOR-Violet’s eyes turned a bit more serious before her body blurred forward. Rockwell gasped as she fell to her knees gasping, struggling to breath as she held her neck. Violet stood over her, her left hand held up like she had just performed some sort of chop. Rockwell looked up at her happily.
ROCKWELL-(Blushing) There it is! That’s a start to exactly what I needed! Now we can really have some fun.
VIOLET-(Stepping back, her face of mix of concern & disgust) Ya’ had et rough growin’ up, didn’t ya’?
ROCKWELL-(Looking disappointed as she stood back up) Awe! Don’t pity me now! Keep hitting me hard like you just did. (Her mouth opening wide) It’s because of the boss that I can have fun like this without anyone else hitting me for the sake of making me cry. (Reaching for her opened mouth) Before this, people would hit me as hard as they could to make me cry. Then one day I just stopped crying, you know? But then…they stopped hitting me, they got all scared & shit. But not the boss. That’s why…(She reached down her own throat, pulling out an old looking hammer you’d find in a tool box) that’s why you have to do it too, Violet. I was so happy you were getting hired because of this!
NARRATOR-Rockwell swung the hammer at Violet, but she had already leaped far off from her. She pressed her large feet against the side of the old building, her eyes looking even more serious & beast like. She sprung off the wall, her left foot, covered in violet Musikal aura slamming into Rockwell’s stretched out neck. Her eyes rolled back as she coughed up other repair & household tools before falling on top of the pile. Violet looked down at her, unable to do nothing, but pity her.
VIOLET-Essence Of Leporidae-Rapid Rabbit.
NARRATOR-Viator looked at his teammate, wanting to go check on her, but once again forced to defend against Marrijane’s flames & sword.
MARRIJANE-Now look who’s getting distracted!
NARRATOR-Viator swung with a quick right jab, but Marrijane was already ahead of him, stepping to a position that left him open & unable to properly defend with his left hand. His eyes turned to see her ready to swing her sword, potent flames gathered around. Her Song was coming & he had no choice but to listen. He went with his next best move, stretching his head forward to bite her in the neck before she could swing. Marrijane saw him coming, pivoting off her back foot & spinning around to avoid a direct blow & still deliver her attack. Viartor still managed to chomp into her shoulder, his fangs digging through jacket and into her flesh. A direct dose of venom to stack on top of the slow moving smaller dose from earlier.
VIATOR-(Thinking) It’s over, she’s as good as dead-URK!
NARRATOR-His head began ringing & he could feel his body get enveloped in a wave of hot numbness. He lost his grip on her shoulder, stumbling around just to stand as he watched a pillar of flame slowly fade into the air. Marrijane had hammered her sword pommel over the top of his head, using her Trailblazer as a way to boost its power & momentum.
VIATOR-(Feeling his conscious fading) How are you…still standing? My venom should have already started to paralyze you.
MARRIJANE-You rely on that venom way too much. Your whole strategy was to strike with a quick right, block any counter attack with your left & bite the opponent when they’re open. It’s an easy three piece to get around, especially since venom & poison don’t do shit to me, hell I don’t even catch colds. (Hand on her hip as she rolled her eyes at him) My flames burn away anything & everything I want them to.
VIATOR-(Losing his balance along with his consciousness as he saw the doors to the building he was guarding swing open with a thunderous force) Sorry to bother you with this mess…boss.
NARRATOR-As he collapsed, Marrijane & Violet’s attention turned to the man standing at the building’s entrance, his body draped in a dirty yellow Musikal aura, his Stage shaped like a king cobra.
Verse 5-The King Cobra
Physday, 24th Of Whislate, Essence Of Snowfall 2995 A.M., 1:25 Set
Southwest District, Big Central, Compass-Star
NARRATOR-Vivica’s eyes lit up as she turned to see the man.
VIVICA-Boss! Please don’t trouble yourself with these fools! We can handle-(She finally realized Viator & Rockwell had already been defeated, her anger evaporating into shock) What?
NARRATOR-The man in the dirty yellow Stage was by far the largest snake Antropomórfico the group had seen so far, standing at almost 7ft. His Stage coated his body in its thick shading, the only other visible thing besides his large silhouette were his serpent like eyes, his Musikal aura giving them an intimidating glow.
SERPENT BOSS-(His tone casual as his long bronzed finger poked out from his Stage) You really need to learn to keep your emotions in check, Vivica. Not only was that kid able to read your Rhythm…(His stretched out finger pointing behind her) Your mood swings let him take advantage of a good opportunity.
NARRATOR-Vivica could already feel it as she began turning her head. Kayjay had begun to gather a massive amount of Muikal aura, his stage a brilliant crystal container for his power. She could see the dark sparkle of his eyes from behind his Crown Goggles, a focus akin to the birds of prey from legends. She spun her dagger between her fingers, preparing to plunge it into his heart. Kayjay’s mind tried to gather all the information he had gleaned thus far, but his body was able to put theory into practice much sooner. The Rhythm of her movements & the sound of her Volume, it was all funneled into his Crown Goggles. He heard it all, the violent sounds honed into a deadly Melody. His feet shuffled as if finding the right angle to strike a fresh block of Tunelite, matching her pace & moving around it. Vivica knew what was coming as she saw the wide swing of Kayjay’s mallet & prepared to slither away from the inexperienced strike. She saw a lot about the situation, but she couldn’t see one thing that Kayjay could. In fact, Kayjay was the only one to see it. Something he had seen before, during Thursday’s attack back in Urban West.
Little balls of light drifting in the wind around him & Vivica. He watched how they moved around and shifted from how the two of them moved. His path was almost spelled out to him, he followed the lights as they swayed, guided by Vivica’s escape attempt. He inhaled, stepped & pushed forward, following her through the lights that only he could see, much to his opponents surprise. It was too late to make a different choice, she had already pushed herself backward through the air, right on target to meet Kayjay’s aura coated mallet head. He exhaled. SMACK! The sound could only be compared to someone excitedly stamping a document with a seal of denial, followed by the collapse of a wooden post. The ribs on the left side of her body were denied their natural constitution, Vivica along with it, her scratching gasped layered over the crunching of her bones. Her body arced in the air briefly, before unceremoniously hitting the dirt nearby. Kayjay began coughing & wheezing, he had exhaled until he ran out of breath to release. He felt his body grow too limp to hold up his mallet, letting himself topple over. Violet didn’t let that happen, already there to catch him & keep him on his feet.
VIOLET-(Easily holding him up with one arm) Hey now, kid, don’t go trippin’ ova’ ya’ own powa’ after gettin’ the dub, ‘kay? Stand tall, ya’ killed dat shit.
KAYJAY-(Finally catching his breath as he looked up at the tall, muscular woman who was supposed to be the enemy) I’ll try…and thanks. For the advice & the help standin’ tall.
NARRATOR-Violet smiled & gave him a thumbs up before giving Marrijane a nod.
MARRIJANE-(Already standing right in front of the Boss, her sword aimed right at him) Okay, enough of this shit, your gang just got their shit pushed in & I know you’re smart enough to know that you don’t stand a chance getting one over us in a fight.
BOSS-(His Stage began to fade as he held his hands up in surrender) Alright, alright, you got me. I’m sure you can tell I’m not all that powerful compared to my team here, it’s why I wanted to hire extra muscle like the Violent Violet, especially while my best fighter is handling business out of town. We all see that was a poor investment, though.
VIOLET-(Chuckling) Sorry, Boss man, it jus’ goes against muh code to be loyal to scum like ya’self.
NARRATOR-With his Stage faded away completely, they all got a clear view of who the Boss was. His slenderness matched with his height & his snake-like features matched up with his fellow Antropomórfico. His scales were a dirty yellow color & his head had a hood shape that matched with the image of a king cobra. He was in a white long sleeve shirt tucked into a pair of black slacks & a pair of casual looking black sneakers. Despite his surrender & Violet’s comments, he seemed calm, something that left a small knot in Kayjay’s stomach. Kayjay’s goggles had given him a good read on his Volume & even though it looked like it was on full display, its numbers were much lower compared to the three people who worked under him.
KAYJAY-(Thinking) He’s so clean lookin’ & well mannered & he had these tough guys under his thumb along with his supposed best not being here. His Volume though…it’s comparable to mine. Why is he so okay with being beaten this bad? (The knot in his stomach tying tighter the longer he looked at him) Marri be careful-
VIOLET-(The hand holding him up gave him a gentle squeeze) Don’t even trip, she’ll be fine. His usual tricks ain’t gonna cut et & I saw wut she’s capable of. His last resort is already hard checked.
MARRIJANE-(Her flames gathered & ready to blast off at any time) Eli Driver, The King Cobra of Den Of Serpents, yeah?
ELI-(Nodding, his hands still up) Guilty as charged. I’ve got to say, it’s kind of an honor to be hunted by the rising star in the Musician world, Marrijane The Scarlet.
[ELI DRIVER-The King Cobra, Male, Age 30, Job-Den Of Serpents Leader. Status: Honored While Cornered.]
MARRIJANE-(Rolling her eyes) Yeah, sure. Crazy, I already heard that you were actually an Antropomórfico, but I wasn’t expecting all your best guys to be as well. Cute little bit of solidarity, I guess.
ELI-(Smirking) Well, of course, the Label’s name came from how I & my team here have been treated like evil serpents from old human legends on Mousika’s 2nd. I gave these guys a home & they gave me a family in a way. The rest of the numbers started flooding in because they were so sympathetic to our plight & could relate. That’s why it pains me to see them so hurt like this…and all for my sake.
MARRIJANE-(Scoffing) Yeah. yeah, cut it out already. You know that this little fake ass charisma crap isn’t going to do you any favors, right? I ran into some of your sympathetic grunts back in Far East running hit & run schemes under your orders. Beef with you & Royal Flush is getting rough isn’t it?
ELI-(Still keeping the smirk on his face) You do indeed keep your ear to the streets, I see. Yes, we do what we can to keep our Koin purses full & to get our hands on turf in Compass-Star. We have to do what we can to survive, after all, Royal Flush are the ones who rolled in & tried to exterminate us. It’s a dangerous world out here, you should know that well enough by now.
MARRIJANE-Exterminate, huh? So you’re saying Royal Flush are the ones out here committing the murders & not anyone related to your Label?
ELI-Oh, so that’s what this is all about? No wonder you stormed all the way out here, but who told you about our location-
MARRIJANE-(Flames around her sword growing brighter) Just answer my question.
ELI-(His smirk shrinking just a bit) I can’t say for sure, I haven’t seen them commit any murders, but it’s not a very well kept secret that they’re the types that wouldn’t hesitate to do something like that. They were already trying to get rid of us, maybe they’re trying to kill off the other Labels around their level to get rid of the competition
MARRIJANE-Yeah, that’s a reach about as long as your neck, but I can’t deny that Royal Flush kills people that get in the way of their business. (Thinking back to what Thursday was originally doing in Urban West) I’ve seen examples first hand & they were messy. Still though, even with the messy ones…they were never this messy. The murders are unorganized, just random Jongleurs getting offed in the middle of the night & on top of that, innocent people are starting to get put into the pile of bodies as they add up. Recently a guy working at a gym in the Central District was killed. Some sort of stabbing like the other victims, but a key detail of this one that matches up with a few others prior are the puncture wounds he had suffered. From what little information I got, it was as if he was bitten and had something poured in him that rotted him from the inside.
KAYJAY-(Feeling a bit nauseous) I can see why she didn’t want me in on this.
VIOLET-Oh, I get et. Kinda’ sounds like they were hit with a snake bite & poisoned!
ELI-(Laughing a bit) Oh! I can see why you would assume that leads straight to us. Common misconception, we don’t inject poison or acid or anything like that. Our bites inject venom. It can eventually paralyze you, cause some irritation & even death, depending on the dose, but it wouldn’t melt your insides. Sorry to say this, but you’ve got the wrong guy. (Giving Violet a look) Your new friend & my former bodyguard can vouch for that.
VIOLET-(Giving him a look back) Yep, I can confirm dat! My ears are pretty damn good so I hear dem talkin’ ‘bout usin’ their venom for all kinds of stuff. They even considered bottlin’ & sellin’ it to other Labels to paralyze rivals when they least expect et. Nothin’ bout meltin’ someone’s guts tho.
MARRIJANE-(Sucking her teeth) Shit…figured this was a little too good of a lead. Oh well…I’ll still go ahead & cash in on you guys though. I know you’re all worth a good bit of Koin (Glancing over at Kayjay) Kayjay, go ahead & call the local MP3 Venue, you should be able to just search it up-what the fuck?
NARRATOR-Marrijane scowled at Violet, who had her right arm rung around Kayjay’s throat, her left fist ready to smash into the side of his head. Kayjay tried to focus & break free like he had done before, but his body still felt too numb & Violet had him beat in terms of physical strength. Marrijane stepped forward to help him, but Kayjay could only scream to warn her.
KAYJAY-No! Marri, stay focused on him!
NARRATOR-Marrijane had realized her mistake & turned back to face Eli, who had already attacked. He reached into his back pocket & pulled out a large vial of a bubbling green liquid. He tossed it directly into her face, before pulling out a few more & doing the same actions again. Marrijane panicked as she rubbed her eyes & began to gasp.
MARRIJANE-(Wheezing) Asshole…what the hell…what the hell did you just do to me!?
ELI-(Smirking) Getting my Koin’s worth, you little bitch! Now die slow for me!
KAYJAY-(His eyes wide as rage began building up inside him) Marrijane!
Verse 6-The Ideal Match
Physday, 24th Of Whislate, Essence Of Snowfall 2995 A.M., 1:28 Set
Southwest District, Big Central, Compass-Star
NARRATOR-Kayjay could only watch as Eli’s whole demeanor had switched into something much more sinister & mustache twirling. He cackled as his mouth hung open wide & his neck stretched out to chomp at Marrijane while her face was drenched in his Venom. His fangs dug deep into her arm & he prepared to pour more directly into her.
ELI-I may not be the strongest around here, but my Venom is the most potent! You may not melt from the inside, but your body will burn so bad that you’ll wish it had! Hahahahahahahahahahahahahah-
NARRATOR-Slick! His head thudded against the floor at Marrijane’s feet, smoke wafting off the point where it had been severed. His body walked around for a moment, like a chicken with its head cut off, before it quickly stopped & fell over backwards. Marrijane pulled out a cloth to wipe off her face & another to wipe off her blade before sheathing it. Kayjay felt his heart rate slow down, but he was left confused as Violet let go of him & patted him firmly on the back.
VIOLET-Sorry bout dat kid, I jus’ had to play da’ part so King Cobra there wouldn’t catch on.
MARRIJANE-(Walking over to them as she was texting something on her Phonograph) Thanks for the heads up, I wasn’t planning on killing the guy, but he forced my hand once he pulled that shit.
VIOLET-(Nodding) Don’t mention et.
KAYJAY-Wait, you guys planned that out?
MARRIJANE-It was pretty last second, but I got her signal & warning well enough. She essentially called out his venom throwing sneak attack knowing it wouldn’t work on me.
KAYJAY-Seriously…oh, well yeah, you had said to that Viator guy that stuff like that won’t work on ya’. I didn’t think you were serious about it like that though, your Presence really does that?
MARRIJANE-(Putting her Phonograph back in her pocket) Pretty much. I haven’t gotten it tested for any sort of specific definition, but my flames pretty much burn anything I choose, within some sort of reason. I can’t just incinerate a Tunelite building at will, but I can choose not to burn a person or a tree, or choose to burn through something that would normally tank the flames. Poison, venom, sickness, disease, shit like that…all burn away by default.
KAYJAY-(Eyes lighting up) That's amazin’! So you used that to your advantage to make him think he had ya’ beat only to get the win in the end. Brutal…
MARRIJANE-World we live in. Like I said, don’t romanticize Big Central. (Looking over at Violet) The thing I want to know is why was he so sure you’d still be on his side. It seemed pretty clear you were using him for whatever it is you were doing.
VIOLET-He tried to bribe meh back when I first got put on. He was supa’ worried bout gettin’ hit by dis mysterious killa’ next, ets da’ whole reason I got hired. At da’ end of da’ first day he tossed me an extra bag of Koin & asked meh to keep a close eye on all his most trusted membas hur. He was paranoid they may have found out how much he was really usin’ dem all & they might sell him out to take ova’ wut he had already built.
KAYJAY-(His mind putting the pieces together) So that’s really why he came out so calmly. He knew that Marri wouldn’t fall for the nice guy routine, but he thought for sure that you would have his back. He gave you a signal to hold me back & then you gave Marri a signal to prepare a counter attack. (Feeling a smile creep on his face) That’s jus’...that’s so damn cool. You two were awesome & ya’ did it within only a few minutes of mettin’ each other. I…I want to be able to do the same-
VIVICA-(Rushing over to Eli’s corpse as she regained consciousness) NOOOOOOO! No! No! No! Boss!? BOOOOOSS! Get up! Please!
KAYJAY-(Watching her in pity & confusion) I know the death was definitely sudden, but…but he didn’t actually even care about ya’ guys-
VIVICA-You don’t fucking know that!
ROCKWELL-(Sitting on top of the tools she had spit up earlier, a big frown on her face) We all knew the guy was actually a bastard, but it’s not like we had anywhere else to go…
VIATOR-(Getting to his feet & sighing deeply) He gave us a place to belong. He was using us for everything we had, but in exchange we had a place to call home. For snakes like us, it doesn’t get any better…
NARRATOR-They all grew quiet for a bit, only Vivica’s sobbing filled the dead air. Kayjay was at a loss for words, he had no experience with loss, he didn’t have the right to speak on it. Marrijane scoffed, she had the right, but she couldn’t tell you why, it would only give her a headache. Violet stepped forward, her rabbit-like features fading along with a bit of her muscular shape. She had the right & she had never had trouble speaking her mind. Everyone was shocked to see her shift to a more human form.
VIOLET-I get et, trust meh…I get et. Ets hard losin’ someone ya’ love a lot, flaws & all. Dat doesn’t mean ya’ need to give up & call et quits. Da’ ideal picture is broken, but all da’ pieces are still there to pick up. You guys can pick ‘em up togetha’ & figa’ out ya’ next move. Ya’ still have each otha’ & da’ otha’ Label membas. Take dat family & do somethin’ good for all of ya’.
KAYJAY-(His heart felt moved by her words. Thinking.) I can’t even imagine how a loss like this feels…but somehow she really made me feel it, or somethin’ close to it. (Feeling a thrill within himself again) I want to know more about her.
VIVICA-(Unmoved by her words) What the fuck would country freak like you know!? You think you can lecture us just because you get the privilege of being human & the power of our people!? Lucky bitch, you can go wherever you want! Isn't that your whole thing? Traveling fighter for higher? You can hide what you are! We can’t!
ROCKWELL-(Standing beside her) No wonder you act so carefree & smug, hahah, you can afford to do it. I thought we could relate because we were both kinda wacky in the head, but you just do it for fun…now that’s a different kind of crazy.
VIATOR-(Standing in front of them both) I don’t know how you got a hold of your power…but do us all a favor & stop pretending to be like us. You just killed our boss & have the nerve to tell us to just push ahead. I heard rabbits were a sign of good luck back in Mousika’s 1st, but that was clearly wrong. Maybe that’s why you’re known for leaving a path of destruction wherever you go to fight.
VIOLET-(Keeping her big smile & positive tone, despite the barrage of insults.) Heheh, yea, dats on meh. I ova’ stepped. Sorry bout dat, I did really mean well wit wut I said…(Her hands slowly balling up)
STATIC-(Angry) Rotten assholes, that rabbit girl is way too damn cool to jus’ take shit like that!
KAYJAY-(Feeling just as angry) It’s not fair…she’s not the one that lied to them all this time!
MARRIJANE-(Crossing her arms) Boo-hoo, the boss that used you & more than likely abused you is dead & now you want to yell at someone who didn’t even do the deed for being different. Weren’t you just crying about people stereotyping you? Grow the fuck up. What happened to you guys wasn’t right, but you’re letting your anger out of the wrong people. (Sirens could be heard, slowly growing louder) Now, I already reported that I killed your big boos & want to cash in. I didn’t report you guys though. You can spend your night sleeping in a cell or out of one. Your choice.
VIVICA-(Glaring at her) We’ll kill you if you just let us go now, you know that right?
MARRIJANE-(Shrugging) Feel free to take a number & try, I’ve got plenty of Jongleurs who want me dead. But if you want that shot anytime soon, you better beat it before they lock you guys up. That’s just my advice though, feel free to keep shitting on the woman who didn’t kill a single one of you.
KAYJAY-(Smiling) Awe, Marri.
VIOLET-(Big smile) So sweet!
MARRIJANE-Both of you shut up, it’s just common sense. And it’s still Marrijane, not Marri.
NARRATOR-Vivica, Rockwell & Viator still looked frustrated at Marrijane & Violet, but knew what their best course of action was. They all slithered off in the direction opposite of the sirens, using the surrounding old buildings to cover their tracks.
VIOLET-Thanks, Scarlet, I owe ya’ one.
MARRIJANE-I won’t be able to cash in on that if you get locked up too, you’re still wanted
KAYJAY-(Shocked) Oh crap! You’re right! We aren’t really goin’ to let them take her in, are we?
MARRIJANE-I can’t openly side with a Jongleur, it’ll just get me marked as one too & then I can’t even make money through this crappy little gig. She’s fast enough to run out of here right now though. Let’s just meet back at the 13th Compass & we’ll sort it all out there.
KAYJAY-(Nodding) I guess that’s the best option then, huh? I can’t think of anything better. (Nodding at Violet) Okay Violet, I’ll show ya’ the way back to my place.
VIOLET-(Big smile as her Presence ability activated again) Trustin’ real quick, huh? Appreciate et. Lead da’ way!
NARRATOR-Kayjay pointed her in the direction of the West District & Violet took his hand & sped off into the air, much to his terror & thrill. Marrijane rolled her eyes as she saw them off & prepared to speak with the Police.
The 13th Compass In West District District, Big Central, Compass-Star, 4:44 Set.
NARRATOR-Marrijane was able to finish reporting in her bounty & getting paid for it faster than she expected. She met back with Kayjay & Violet at the Swansong lot, Violet & Jobber surprisingly hitting it off quickly. When things calmed down, they all ended up in the kitchen of the 13th Compass, Marrijane serving them all bowls full of fancy looking noodles. As they ate, they were all able to bring each other up to speed on what they were doing in Big Central & that brought them to a conclusion Marrijane wasn’t instantly sold on.
MARRIJANE-(Lowering her fork before she could get another bite of her noodles.) Maestro? You want a Jongleur to be your Maestro?
KAYJAY-(Finishing up her bowl) But we all know she actually isn’t a bad person, it’s the whole reason why you didn’t want to capture her.
MARRIJANE-I did it because she helped up out back there & I wanted to avoid a fight that was too risky. Doesn’t change the fact that she’s wanted.
VIOLET-(Finishing off her 5th bowl of noodles) Awe! Come on, Marri! Ya’ gotta’ admit we kinda made a good team.
MARRIJANE-It’s Marrijane! If he can’t call me that, then damn well can’t. Look, we were able to work on the fly due to our experience, but it was a lucky interaction. Doesn’t mean we’re now obligated to hit the streets together.
KAYJAY-Will ya’ at least hear out why we think her train’ is a great way to go?
MARRIJANE-(Her foot tapping under the table) I don’t actually have to, do I?
JOBBER-(Finally speaking up as he wiped some broth off the corner of his mouth) It’s actually a pretty solid idea that benefits all of you that won’t even cost you a dime. And I think they’re the ideal match when it comes to Maestro & Student.
MARRIJANE-(Scoffing) Fine. If Jobber sees the promise in it, it may be worth something.
NARRATOR-Kayjay looked surprised by how he so easily convinced her, but felt reassured by Jobber’s thumbs up.
KAYJAY-(Sitting up straight as he spoke as confidently as he could) W-well, you’ve been spendin’ time lookin’ into these murders, but have been worried about my safety. I’ve been tryin’ to find somewhere to teach me how to fight so I don’t have to worry you anymore, but no one has been willin’ to train me. And Violet here has been travlin’ around the Philharmonic on a pilgrimage in order to defend the weak, but her recklessness has marked her as a Jongleur. So to solve all of our problems at once…we work together. You get Violet’s help out on the streets without havin’ to worry about me gettin’ hurt since I’ll be trained to fight. Violet gets to still fulfill the duties of her pilgrimage by trainin’ me up & helping you keep Jongleurs from harming folks while a;so workin’ to find a way to clear her own Jongleur status. And I get personal trainin’ with a Sonicnaut that actually can work with me. I can help out without gettin’ in the way & I’m one step closer to finding what I want to do out in the world. It’s not just two birds with one stone, it’s three!
NARRATOR-Marrijane was silent even after he finished explaining himself, really considering the pros & cons of the arrangement. Kayjay smiled in some attempt to win her over, but she remained straight faced. Violet joined in with her big goofy grin, but Marrijane looked more annoyed than convinced. Finally even Jobber cracked a small smile on his face, a rare sight for Marrijane to see.
MARRIJANE-(Tilting her head back) Fine! Fine…we’ll give it like a month & see how it goes.
KAYJAY & VIOLET-(High fiving) Hell yea! Ets official!
JOBBER-(Approving nod) Congrats. Good work on winning her over, that’s a big win.
MARRIJANE-(Waving off his comment) It only really worked out because you gave your co-sign. I can’t ignore the eye of a Musician like you, former or not.
KAYJAY-(Looking over curiously) Were you famous back in your day, Jobber?
JOBBER-(Bluntly) Sort of, but those days are done & right now we’re celebrating aren't we?
KAYJAY & VIOLET-(More excited than before) Oh absolutely!
MARRIJANE-(A headache slowly creeping in) Oh Muse, help me…what did I agree to?
NARRATOR-As the four celebrated the establishment of their new arrangement, they became a stark contrast to what was occurring back in the Southwestern District. The sun still gently delivered its final golden glow for the day. A pinkish blue ray slid over one of the many abandoned buildings, giving just silhouettes. The shapes of snake-like bodies, or at least what was left of them. They seemed to only just be held together by slim pieces of stringy tendons, the flesh severed & carved with some sense of precision, but lacked a touch of mastery. A house with no power, the shadowed corpses echoing the lives of a black mamba, a cottonmouth & a copperhead, now strung about the room. Before the light vanished completely, a figure in the center of the room could be seen breathing deeply. His frame was thin, his clothes were ragged & he had what seemed to be drool dripping from his lips. A thick red Musikal aura surrounded him, sirens faintly singing their arrival.
KILLER-(Muttering) I know it’s so hard to keep going when you have nothing, so rest easy now.
NARRATOR-A chaotic chord continued to grow louder within Big Central. Its volume was increasing.
TRACK 004 END
TUNE IN FOR MUSIKAL TERMS
Den Of Serpents-The most prominent & well known Labels in Big Central. They maintained a lower Label ranking between 2-3 starts, but were also able to maintain a powerful hold over most of Big Central’s Jongleur turf. Recent events have seen members of lower standing from Royal Flush invading on turf of other Labels throughout Compass-Star. This caused Den of Serpents to respond by attempting to spread their own turf & start to rise in power. The Label has recently begun to dissolve due to the Label’s Boss, Eli ‘King Cobra’ Driver, being killed by Amateur Musician Marrijane The Scarlet. Later that same day it was reported that three of the Label’s higher ups (Viator ‘Black Mamba’ Kiddo, Vivica ‘Copperhead’ Green, Rockwell ‘Cottomouth’ Oh) were murdered. There are no suspects , but it is assumed to be related to the rumors of an unknown serial killer prowling Big Central. The whereabouts of the last remaining Den Of Serpents higher ups (Buddy ‘Diamond Back’ Winder) are currently unknown.
Melody-When a Sonicnaut has gotten used to their Album, they'll instinctively have go-to moves & combinations of strikes that suit them best. These combination moves naturally feel right to perform & in a sense, sound correct to the Sonicnaut's Soul. A Melody is not planned like Choreography, but still works just as well naturally.Rhythm-Rhythm normally requires an understanding of the natural state of Musik. Since all living things have Musik moving through them, they all have a Rhythm that can be sensed & felt out if trained to do so. A Sonicnaut learns to do this by feeling out the Musik as it naturally moves & stops in the air around them, with this they can better read an enemy's movements & counter.
