I'm listening, always.

“ and all I see is what I should be happier, prettier, jealousy, jealousy ! “

[stinkeri]

i think i swallowed a screw

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess was fed up with not hearing from Aorta. The first time she had tried talking to them and she didn’t get a response! So she decided she’d take the matters into her own hands, and look for Aorta herself. She first tried just looking around. But obviously that was a bad shot. So she went to Stormy (very reluctantly) and only got a frown and a shrug. Her last resort was going to Alice’s church, and little did she know she’d be hiding in the bushes to listen in to Aorta’s conversation with…some guy?? Who was that??? @essere-distrutto-lol

Aorta didn’t see Dess, he was trying to talk to Ace about finding Alice. I don’t think it’s home…So maybe we could go to that little village and see if it’s there? Ace seemed quite insistent on staying around the church. And while the two of them went back and forth, Dess listened…Resisting the urge to not leap out and butt in.

@gibsoneleventh

[gibsoneleventh]

Sure! The village is exactly 256 metres to the south-east. Is there many inhabitants?

He seemed almost as cheery as he was when you first met him now, it felt so unnatural it almost made you sick.

How did he even know that? He clearly hadn't been here before, let alone in the forest at all. How on earth did he know that?

He shivered and huffed, sensing someone was nearby. He decided it best not to mention it.

[deepinyouraorta]

I think there may be a few. Children of adults running markets there…Oh, I wouldn’t want to scare them off.

Aorta’s appearance has scared people before.

How…Did you know where the village is, dear?

Dess scoffed in the bushes. ‘Dear’? What was this?! Despite that, she definitely had to follow them.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace continued smiling, cheerful as ever.

It sounds wonderful! We should go. It's not far, after all.

The corner of his mouth twitched.

I know a lot of things. Why?

[deepinyouraorta]

…No reason. Let’s go.

Aorta took Ace’s hand and walked them through the forest to the village. They still had no idea that Dess was following them through the bushes.

When they got there, it was exactly as Aorta had expected. The air was cold and the sky was dark, like it was about to rain over the town. Only some people lingered outside, and they seemed quite young.

It’s likely that Alice is in one of the shops…However, if you’d like to take a little walk around first? Just the two of us.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace scanned the village, it didn't seem familiar in the slightest. He'd take note of it for later. The only inhabitants he could see seemed oddly young, and the village felt empty.

ace could feel the hairs on the back of his neck raise, as if he were being watched. If the feeling occurred again, he decided it best to inform aorta.

Sure, why not? Is this where you're from, darling? It's... fascinating. For lack of a better word.

[deepinyouraorta]

Oh, no, not this one. My town is much…Brighter.

Aorta’s smile faded into a small frown.

It’s always a little bittersweet. Thinking about it.

…

…Mm, I think Alice had a residency here when they worked at the church normally. I’m guessing it’s been given away.

Aorta glances over at a small house and views a couple children chatting. They look up at him and he tries to smile, but it’s unsettling enough that they glance away.

…mm.

[gibsoneleventh]

I see. Your background fascinates me, darling. Truly.

Ace glanced at the children you smiled at but decided it best not to interact, as he got a chill up his spine once more. That's it. He was sick of this, he was going to tell aorta.

Aorta, darling? Do you feel that as well? That...dread?

He placed his hands on your shoulders and leaned over you while walking. He looked slightly less cheerful than usual, and whispered in your ear.

I think...I think we might have someone...observing us. And I don't mean the children.

[deepinyouraorta]

…Oh?

He was awfully close.

I dont feel it, no…But if someone is following us, we should hide…

Aorta tugged Ace into one of the buildings, that was…Certainly a house belonging to someone. They could get in big trouble.

Do you think it may be Alice? Their presence can be heavy…

[gibsoneleventh]

aces smile dropped suddenly as he took on a much more solemn tone.

No.

His words were stern.

he pushed you behind him gently as he trued to peak out the door again.

I can't seem to spot where they are... they must be good at...observing. whoever they are.

He mumbled under his breath;

Whatever they are.

stay behind me, darling. We wouldn't want you getting hurt now would we? I'd hate to have to chain you up again if you disobey me.

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta’s face paled a bit, and she backed up behind Ace, almost like she was hiding from him as well. She did not want to get chained up multiple times in one day, that would be…Catastrophic. So she was going to play it safe and stay right behind Ace. ….um. please don’t. The way she shrunk was just like how she would as a child. And outside, Dess scowled as she walked out of her hiding spot, looking around and finding nothing. ”𝔻𝔸𝕄ℕ𝕀𝕋! 𝕎𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝔾𝕆?!” She groaned defeatedly.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace's misshapen eyes locked onto dess as he pressed his hand against you, stopping you from walking forward.

...I won't then. I think we've found our little follower anyway.

He hid you behind the door and stood in the threshold, threatening a stance against dess. His smile was bright and he contrasting held out his palms in a "jazz hands" gesture.

Hey there, kiddo! You got a problem or something? What're you doing, kid?

There was a hint of aggression under his cheery tone as he shouted at dess from across the square.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess looked over at Ace, raising an eyebrow and crossing her arms.

“Ciao. I’m LOOKING for some sorta DEVIL named AORTA. Coulda SWORN I saw him with YA, so I thought I’d ASK.”

Dess smirked, walking up to him.

“Do you KNOW them? What’s your RELATION with them? Oh, BETTER YET. What’s your NAME?”

She reached her hand out to shake. There was a paper bracelet on her wrist, that said “Viaggiatore 178243” on it.

Aorta glanced over Ace’s shoulder, not far enough to be seen.

[gibsoneleventh]

The corners of ace's mouth strained slightly at your overconfidence. He looked at your hand and shook it just too firmly to be comfortable while sustaining his disgustingly cheery demeanor.

Hello, dess! My name is ace, and would you mind if I asked you why you need to know all that about aorta? Seems a bit invasive, don't ya think?

He let go of your hand finally and placed his hands on his hips, nearly glaring at you, bit his expression was just slightly too soft to be considered malicious.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess made a bit of a face, but a split second after it appeared her smirk came right back.

“That would be INDESIDERABILE to you.”

She wiped her hand on her dress.

“I was told by a PEST that Aorta would like SEEING me.”

Dess sneered a bit.

“Didn’t think I’d be met with such a ‘CHARMING’ fellow.”

Aorta put a hand on Ace’s shoulder and peeked out just a little more.

[gibsoneleventh]

"charming" was one way of putting it. False was another way. His smile curled into the shadow of a sneer.

Well, indesiderable, I don't know whom aorta is, nor where she might be. I didn't think I'd be met with such an "indesirable" individual either. You really should learn Italian better, darling.

He spread his arms further and leaned against either side if the doorframe to prevent you from spotting aorta peeking out behind him.

[deepinyouraorta]

”…Indesirable-?! I-!”

She wasn’t named that! Right? Right? …uh

Dess crossed her arms and huffed. This man was ticking her off! And plus, Aorta WAS that girl that was with him, right? Red and blue. That’s like heart colors or whatever.

“Well, I SAW her with YOU. So FESS UP, buddy. Non conosci l'italiano meglio della ragazza italiana di fronte a te...”

[gibsoneleventh]

ace giggled to himself at your quick temper, your short fuse was hilarious to him.

I don't know who you're talking about, honest! And I understand Italian very well, undesirable. I know everything, after all! I probably can speak it even better than you!

He giggled to himself and flicked his cale behind him to block you from seeing past the doorway

[deepinyouraorta]

”YOU can’t-!”

Jeez, this woman had no sense of humor, did she?

Aorta tugged on Ace’s arm, maybe to remind him to be civil, but obviously that wouldn’t work.

”…whatever. WHATEVER. y-…you’re clearly telling the truth or something. or maybe you’re NOT. I can’t exactly GIVE A SHIT right now.”

Dess turned away, her gaze running across the stone ground.

“…grazie per niente,” She snarled at the ground, before storming away without another glance back at Ace.

Aorta frowned at the sight. Sure, Dess seemed like an arrogant girl, but was all of that exactly necessary…?

…You didn’t have to do that, Aorta mumbled to Ace.

[gibsoneleventh]

ace just giggled as dess walked away, what an idiot! They really didn't notice aorta standing right behind him the whole time? It was priceless.

He kept giggling for about five seconds after your remark, before coming to his senses and backing up, placing his palm on your chest again and pushing you back gently to prevent dess from spotting you.

it's for the love of the game, darling! I thought you'd understand, but clearly not. That's alright! Why don't we take a little....detour before finding Alice? A little break wouldn't do us any harm, would it?

ONce he had pushed you back far enough he turned around and grabbed your arm, rushing around to the back of the building, dragging you along with him.

[deepinyouraorta]

A detour?

Aorta let herself be pushed back, but she had to rush to keep up with Ace’s quick steps.

Where are we going-?!

This was probably someone’s house! The sound of Aorta’s boots clacking against the floor was loud…What if someone was in here?

Ace, slow down..! We could be trespassing, I don’t want us to get caught!

Why were they going towards the back of the building??

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace chuckled with an undertone of malicious intent as he continued to drag you around the back of the building, where a dark alleyway acted as a moat for the house.

We won't get caught. We'll, that is as long as you don't make a fuss!

He turned to face you and placed his hand on the wall next to you, blocking you from proceeding any further. He towered over you and smirked, peering down at you.

Just the two of us again. Can I ask you a few questions? To put my curiosity to rest, to spark my fascination even more?

Now that we're somewhere more private I thought I'd be able to understand you better....what you are. Who you are, and why you are so utterly fascinating.

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta bit the inside of their cheek and nodded, fiddling with their hair.

I-…Suppose you can? I don’t see how that could be harmful. I didn’t realize you were so fascinated, Ace. There’s not that much about me that’s so intriguing.

[gibsoneleventh]

he presed his hand harder into the wall as his eyes got a bit more frantic.

Not much that's intriguing?! Oh, you couldn't even begin to imagine. The way I see you...the way you are... you're the most fascinating specimen I have ever. Seen.

His grip softened.

But I wanted to ask you;

He took a shaky breath

Are you scared of me, aorta?

[deepinyouraorta]

That's...Very nice of you to say, Ace. Aorta tilted her head. Well. I wouldn't say I'm frightened. You have a naturally unsettling feel to you, dear. That's not a bad thing, necessarily. I do like it... Aorta smirked, her eyes reflecting a smug-like look in them. You sure are...Very flattering.

[gibsoneleventh]

ace's breath hitched. Dammit, you knew he liked you, didn't you? He was so stupid not to have realised all this time- but by god did you look ethereal in this moonlight.

his eyes slitted at your last comment as his expression darkened.

he placed his free hand on your chin and stifled a laugh.

I try my best.

He leaned in closer, until he blocked your vision nearly entirely, towering over you.

[deepinyouraorta]

Well, you do a fantastic job, I do say! Aorta giggled, straightening up a bit. Then she got herself into a generally better stance, because she was often told she never stood up right. She brought Ace into a tight embrace, because generally she didn't know what else to do...Or rather how to do it. I think I know why you brought me over here. You are not very subtle with that.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess was fed up with not hearing from Aorta. The first time she had tried talking to them and she didn’t get a response! So she decided she’d take the matters into her own hands, and look for Aorta herself. She first tried just looking around. But obviously that was a bad shot. So she went to Stormy (very reluctantly) and only got a frown and a shrug. Her last resort was going to Alice’s church, and little did she know she’d be hiding in the bushes to listen in to Aorta’s conversation with…some guy?? Who was that??? @essere-distrutto-lol

Aorta didn’t see Dess, he was trying to talk to Ace about finding Alice. I don’t think it’s home…So maybe we could go to that little village and see if it’s there? Ace seemed quite insistent on staying around the church. And while the two of them went back and forth, Dess listened…Resisting the urge to not leap out and butt in.

@gibsoneleventh

[gibsoneleventh]

Sure! The village is exactly 256 metres to the south-east. Is there many inhabitants?

He seemed almost as cheery as he was when you first met him now, it felt so unnatural it almost made you sick.

How did he even know that? He clearly hadn't been here before, let alone in the forest at all. How on earth did he know that?

He shivered and huffed, sensing someone was nearby. He decided it best not to mention it.

[deepinyouraorta]

I think there may be a few. Children of adults running markets there…Oh, I wouldn’t want to scare them off.

Aorta’s appearance has scared people before.

How…Did you know where the village is, dear?

Dess scoffed in the bushes. ‘Dear’? What was this?! Despite that, she definitely had to follow them.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace continued smiling, cheerful as ever.

It sounds wonderful! We should go. It's not far, after all.

The corner of his mouth twitched.

I know a lot of things. Why?

[deepinyouraorta]

…No reason. Let’s go.

Aorta took Ace’s hand and walked them through the forest to the village. They still had no idea that Dess was following them through the bushes.

When they got there, it was exactly as Aorta had expected. The air was cold and the sky was dark, like it was about to rain over the town. Only some people lingered outside, and they seemed quite young.

It’s likely that Alice is in one of the shops…However, if you’d like to take a little walk around first? Just the two of us.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace scanned the village, it didn't seem familiar in the slightest. He'd take note of it for later. The only inhabitants he could see seemed oddly young, and the village felt empty.

ace could feel the hairs on the back of his neck raise, as if he were being watched. If the feeling occurred again, he decided it best to inform aorta.

Sure, why not? Is this where you're from, darling? It's... fascinating. For lack of a better word.

[deepinyouraorta]

Oh, no, not this one. My town is much…Brighter.

Aorta’s smile faded into a small frown.

It’s always a little bittersweet. Thinking about it.

…

…Mm, I think Alice had a residency here when they worked at the church normally. I’m guessing it’s been given away.

Aorta glances over at a small house and views a couple children chatting. They look up at him and he tries to smile, but it’s unsettling enough that they glance away.

…mm.

[gibsoneleventh]

I see. Your background fascinates me, darling. Truly.

Ace glanced at the children you smiled at but decided it best not to interact, as he got a chill up his spine once more. That's it. He was sick of this, he was going to tell aorta.

Aorta, darling? Do you feel that as well? That...dread?

He placed his hands on your shoulders and leaned over you while walking. He looked slightly less cheerful than usual, and whispered in your ear.

I think...I think we might have someone...observing us. And I don't mean the children.

[deepinyouraorta]

…Oh?

He was awfully close.

I dont feel it, no…But if someone is following us, we should hide…

Aorta tugged Ace into one of the buildings, that was…Certainly a house belonging to someone. They could get in big trouble.

Do you think it may be Alice? Their presence can be heavy…

[gibsoneleventh]

aces smile dropped suddenly as he took on a much more solemn tone.

No.

His words were stern.

he pushed you behind him gently as he trued to peak out the door again.

I can't seem to spot where they are... they must be good at...observing. whoever they are.

He mumbled under his breath;

Whatever they are.

stay behind me, darling. We wouldn't want you getting hurt now would we? I'd hate to have to chain you up again if you disobey me.

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta’s face paled a bit, and she backed up behind Ace, almost like she was hiding from him as well. She did not want to get chained up multiple times in one day, that would be…Catastrophic. So she was going to play it safe and stay right behind Ace. ….um. please don’t. The way she shrunk was just like how she would as a child. And outside, Dess scowled as she walked out of her hiding spot, looking around and finding nothing. ”𝔻𝔸𝕄ℕ𝕀𝕋! 𝕎𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝔾𝕆?!” She groaned defeatedly.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace's misshapen eyes locked onto dess as he pressed his hand against you, stopping you from walking forward.

...I won't then. I think we've found our little follower anyway.

He hid you behind the door and stood in the threshold, threatening a stance against dess. His smile was bright and he contrasting held out his palms in a "jazz hands" gesture.

Hey there, kiddo! You got a problem or something? What're you doing, kid?

There was a hint of aggression under his cheery tone as he shouted at dess from across the square.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess looked over at Ace, raising an eyebrow and crossing her arms.

“Ciao. I’m LOOKING for some sorta DEVIL named AORTA. Coulda SWORN I saw him with YA, so I thought I’d ASK.”

Dess smirked, walking up to him.

“Do you KNOW them? What’s your RELATION with them? Oh, BETTER YET. What’s your NAME?”

She reached her hand out to shake. There was a paper bracelet on her wrist, that said “Viaggiatore 178243” on it.

Aorta glanced over Ace’s shoulder, not far enough to be seen.

[gibsoneleventh]

The corners of ace's mouth strained slightly at your overconfidence. He looked at your hand and shook it just too firmly to be comfortable while sustaining his disgustingly cheery demeanor.

Hello, dess! My name is ace, and would you mind if I asked you why you need to know all that about aorta? Seems a bit invasive, don't ya think?

He let go of your hand finally and placed his hands on his hips, nearly glaring at you, bit his expression was just slightly too soft to be considered malicious.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess made a bit of a face, but a split second after it appeared her smirk came right back.

“That would be INDESIDERABILE to you.”

She wiped her hand on her dress.

“I was told by a PEST that Aorta would like SEEING me.”

Dess sneered a bit.

“Didn’t think I’d be met with such a ‘CHARMING’ fellow.”

Aorta put a hand on Ace’s shoulder and peeked out just a little more.

[gibsoneleventh]

"charming" was one way of putting it. False was another way. His smile curled into the shadow of a sneer.

Well, indesiderable, I don't know whom aorta is, nor where she might be. I didn't think I'd be met with such an "indesirable" individual either. You really should learn Italian better, darling.

He spread his arms further and leaned against either side if the doorframe to prevent you from spotting aorta peeking out behind him.

[deepinyouraorta]

”…Indesirable-?! I-!”

She wasn’t named that! Right? Right? …uh

Dess crossed her arms and huffed. This man was ticking her off! And plus, Aorta WAS that girl that was with him, right? Red and blue. That’s like heart colors or whatever.

“Well, I SAW her with YOU. So FESS UP, buddy. Non conosci l'italiano meglio della ragazza italiana di fronte a te...”

[gibsoneleventh]

ace giggled to himself at your quick temper, your short fuse was hilarious to him.

I don't know who you're talking about, honest! And I understand Italian very well, undesirable. I know everything, after all! I probably can speak it even better than you!

He giggled to himself and flicked his cale behind him to block you from seeing past the doorway

[deepinyouraorta]

”YOU can’t-!”

Jeez, this woman had no sense of humor, did she?

Aorta tugged on Ace’s arm, maybe to remind him to be civil, but obviously that wouldn’t work.

”…whatever. WHATEVER. y-…you’re clearly telling the truth or something. or maybe you’re NOT. I can’t exactly GIVE A SHIT right now.”

Dess turned away, her gaze running across the stone ground.

“…grazie per niente,” She snarled at the ground, before storming away without another glance back at Ace.

Aorta frowned at the sight. Sure, Dess seemed like an arrogant girl, but was all of that exactly necessary…?

…You didn’t have to do that, Aorta mumbled to Ace.

[gibsoneleventh]

ace just giggled as dess walked away, what an idiot! They really didn't notice aorta standing right behind him the whole time? It was priceless.

He kept giggling for about five seconds after your remark, before coming to his senses and backing up, placing his palm on your chest again and pushing you back gently to prevent dess from spotting you.

it's for the love of the game, darling! I thought you'd understand, but clearly not. That's alright! Why don't we take a little....detour before finding Alice? A little break wouldn't do us any harm, would it?

ONce he had pushed you back far enough he turned around and grabbed your arm, rushing around to the back of the building, dragging you along with him.

[deepinyouraorta]

A detour?

Aorta let herself be pushed back, but she had to rush to keep up with Ace’s quick steps.

Where are we going-?!

This was probably someone’s house! The sound of Aorta’s boots clacking against the floor was loud…What if someone was in here?

Ace, slow down..! We could be trespassing, I don’t want us to get caught!

Why were they going towards the back of the building??

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace chuckled with an undertone of malicious intent as he continued to drag you around the back of the building, where a dark alleyway acted as a moat for the house.

We won't get caught. We'll, that is as long as you don't make a fuss!

He turned to face you and placed his hand on the wall next to you, blocking you from proceeding any further. He towered over you and smirked, peering down at you.

Just the two of us again. Can I ask you a few questions? To put my curiosity to rest, to spark my fascination even more?

Now that we're somewhere more private I thought I'd be able to understand you better....what you are. Who you are, and why you are so utterly fascinating.

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta bit the inside of their cheek and nodded, fiddling with their hair.

I-…Suppose you can? I don’t see how that could be harmful. I didn’t realize you were so fascinated, Ace. There’s not that much about me that’s so intriguing.

[gibsoneleventh]

he presed his hand harder into the wall as his eyes got a bit more frantic.

Not much that's intriguing?! Oh, you couldn't even begin to imagine. The way I see you...the way you are... you're the most fascinating specimen I have ever. Seen.

His grip softened.

But I wanted to ask you;

He took a shaky breath

Are you scared of me, aorta?

[deepinyouraorta]

That's...Very nice of you to say, Ace. Aorta tilted her head. Well. I wouldn't say I'm frightened. You have a naturally unsettling feel to you, dear. That's not a bad thing, necessarily. I do like it... Aorta smirked, her eyes reflecting a smug-like look in them. You sure are...Very flattering.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess was fed up with not hearing from Aorta. The first time she had tried talking to them and she didn’t get a response! So she decided she’d take the matters into her own hands, and look for Aorta herself. She first tried just looking around. But obviously that was a bad shot. So she went to Stormy (very reluctantly) and only got a frown and a shrug. Her last resort was going to Alice’s church, and little did she know she’d be hiding in the bushes to listen in to Aorta’s conversation with…some guy?? Who was that??? @essere-distrutto-lol

Aorta didn’t see Dess, he was trying to talk to Ace about finding Alice. I don’t think it’s home…So maybe we could go to that little village and see if it’s there? Ace seemed quite insistent on staying around the church. And while the two of them went back and forth, Dess listened…Resisting the urge to not leap out and butt in.

@gibsoneleventh

[gibsoneleventh]

Sure! The village is exactly 256 metres to the south-east. Is there many inhabitants?

He seemed almost as cheery as he was when you first met him now, it felt so unnatural it almost made you sick.

How did he even know that? He clearly hadn't been here before, let alone in the forest at all. How on earth did he know that?

He shivered and huffed, sensing someone was nearby. He decided it best not to mention it.

[deepinyouraorta]

I think there may be a few. Children of adults running markets there…Oh, I wouldn’t want to scare them off.

Aorta’s appearance has scared people before.

How…Did you know where the village is, dear?

Dess scoffed in the bushes. ‘Dear’? What was this?! Despite that, she definitely had to follow them.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace continued smiling, cheerful as ever.

It sounds wonderful! We should go. It's not far, after all.

The corner of his mouth twitched.

I know a lot of things. Why?

[deepinyouraorta]

…No reason. Let’s go.

Aorta took Ace’s hand and walked them through the forest to the village. They still had no idea that Dess was following them through the bushes.

When they got there, it was exactly as Aorta had expected. The air was cold and the sky was dark, like it was about to rain over the town. Only some people lingered outside, and they seemed quite young.

It’s likely that Alice is in one of the shops…However, if you’d like to take a little walk around first? Just the two of us.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace scanned the village, it didn't seem familiar in the slightest. He'd take note of it for later. The only inhabitants he could see seemed oddly young, and the village felt empty.

ace could feel the hairs on the back of his neck raise, as if he were being watched. If the feeling occurred again, he decided it best to inform aorta.

Sure, why not? Is this where you're from, darling? It's... fascinating. For lack of a better word.

[deepinyouraorta]

Oh, no, not this one. My town is much…Brighter.

Aorta’s smile faded into a small frown.

It’s always a little bittersweet. Thinking about it.

…

…Mm, I think Alice had a residency here when they worked at the church normally. I’m guessing it’s been given away.

Aorta glances over at a small house and views a couple children chatting. They look up at him and he tries to smile, but it’s unsettling enough that they glance away.

…mm.

[gibsoneleventh]

I see. Your background fascinates me, darling. Truly.

Ace glanced at the children you smiled at but decided it best not to interact, as he got a chill up his spine once more. That's it. He was sick of this, he was going to tell aorta.

Aorta, darling? Do you feel that as well? That...dread?

He placed his hands on your shoulders and leaned over you while walking. He looked slightly less cheerful than usual, and whispered in your ear.

I think...I think we might have someone...observing us. And I don't mean the children.

[deepinyouraorta]

…Oh?

He was awfully close.

I dont feel it, no…But if someone is following us, we should hide…

Aorta tugged Ace into one of the buildings, that was…Certainly a house belonging to someone. They could get in big trouble.

Do you think it may be Alice? Their presence can be heavy…

[gibsoneleventh]

aces smile dropped suddenly as he took on a much more solemn tone.

No.

His words were stern.

he pushed you behind him gently as he trued to peak out the door again.

I can't seem to spot where they are... they must be good at...observing. whoever they are.

He mumbled under his breath;

Whatever they are.

stay behind me, darling. We wouldn't want you getting hurt now would we? I'd hate to have to chain you up again if you disobey me.

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta’s face paled a bit, and she backed up behind Ace, almost like she was hiding from him as well. She did not want to get chained up multiple times in one day, that would be…Catastrophic. So she was going to play it safe and stay right behind Ace. ….um. please don’t. The way she shrunk was just like how she would as a child. And outside, Dess scowled as she walked out of her hiding spot, looking around and finding nothing. ”𝔻𝔸𝕄ℕ𝕀𝕋! 𝕎𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝔾𝕆?!” She groaned defeatedly.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace's misshapen eyes locked onto dess as he pressed his hand against you, stopping you from walking forward.

...I won't then. I think we've found our little follower anyway.

He hid you behind the door and stood in the threshold, threatening a stance against dess. His smile was bright and he contrasting held out his palms in a "jazz hands" gesture.

Hey there, kiddo! You got a problem or something? What're you doing, kid?

There was a hint of aggression under his cheery tone as he shouted at dess from across the square.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess looked over at Ace, raising an eyebrow and crossing her arms.

“Ciao. I’m LOOKING for some sorta DEVIL named AORTA. Coulda SWORN I saw him with YA, so I thought I’d ASK.”

Dess smirked, walking up to him.

“Do you KNOW them? What’s your RELATION with them? Oh, BETTER YET. What’s your NAME?”

She reached her hand out to shake. There was a paper bracelet on her wrist, that said “Viaggiatore 178243” on it.

Aorta glanced over Ace’s shoulder, not far enough to be seen.

[gibsoneleventh]

The corners of ace's mouth strained slightly at your overconfidence. He looked at your hand and shook it just too firmly to be comfortable while sustaining his disgustingly cheery demeanor.

Hello, dess! My name is ace, and would you mind if I asked you why you need to know all that about aorta? Seems a bit invasive, don't ya think?

He let go of your hand finally and placed his hands on his hips, nearly glaring at you, bit his expression was just slightly too soft to be considered malicious.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess made a bit of a face, but a split second after it appeared her smirk came right back.

“That would be INDESIDERABILE to you.”

She wiped her hand on her dress.

“I was told by a PEST that Aorta would like SEEING me.”

Dess sneered a bit.

“Didn’t think I’d be met with such a ‘CHARMING’ fellow.”

Aorta put a hand on Ace’s shoulder and peeked out just a little more.

[gibsoneleventh]

"charming" was one way of putting it. False was another way. His smile curled into the shadow of a sneer.

Well, indesiderable, I don't know whom aorta is, nor where she might be. I didn't think I'd be met with such an "indesirable" individual either. You really should learn Italian better, darling.

He spread his arms further and leaned against either side if the doorframe to prevent you from spotting aorta peeking out behind him.

[deepinyouraorta]

”…Indesirable-?! I-!”

She wasn’t named that! Right? Right? …uh

Dess crossed her arms and huffed. This man was ticking her off! And plus, Aorta WAS that girl that was with him, right? Red and blue. That’s like heart colors or whatever.

“Well, I SAW her with YOU. So FESS UP, buddy. Non conosci l'italiano meglio della ragazza italiana di fronte a te...”

[gibsoneleventh]

ace giggled to himself at your quick temper, your short fuse was hilarious to him.

I don't know who you're talking about, honest! And I understand Italian very well, undesirable. I know everything, after all! I probably can speak it even better than you!

He giggled to himself and flicked his cale behind him to block you from seeing past the doorway

[deepinyouraorta]

”YOU can’t-!”

Jeez, this woman had no sense of humor, did she?

Aorta tugged on Ace’s arm, maybe to remind him to be civil, but obviously that wouldn’t work.

”…whatever. WHATEVER. y-…you’re clearly telling the truth or something. or maybe you’re NOT. I can’t exactly GIVE A SHIT right now.”

Dess turned away, her gaze running across the stone ground.

“…grazie per niente,” She snarled at the ground, before storming away without another glance back at Ace.

Aorta frowned at the sight. Sure, Dess seemed like an arrogant girl, but was all of that exactly necessary…?

…You didn’t have to do that, Aorta mumbled to Ace.

[gibsoneleventh]

ace just giggled as dess walked away, what an idiot! They really didn't notice aorta standing right behind him the whole time? It was priceless.

He kept giggling for about five seconds after your remark, before coming to his senses and backing up, placing his palm on your chest again and pushing you back gently to prevent dess from spotting you.

it's for the love of the game, darling! I thought you'd understand, but clearly not. That's alright! Why don't we take a little....detour before finding Alice? A little break wouldn't do us any harm, would it?

ONce he had pushed you back far enough he turned around and grabbed your arm, rushing around to the back of the building, dragging you along with him.

[deepinyouraorta]

A detour?

Aorta let herself be pushed back, but she had to rush to keep up with Ace’s quick steps.

Where are we going-?!

This was probably someone’s house! The sound of Aorta’s boots clacking against the floor was loud…What if someone was in here?

Ace, slow down..! We could be trespassing, I don’t want us to get caught!

Why were they going towards the back of the building??

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace chuckled with an undertone of malicious intent as he continued to drag you around the back of the building, where a dark alleyway acted as a moat for the house.

We won't get caught. We'll, that is as long as you don't make a fuss!

He turned to face you and placed his hand on the wall next to you, blocking you from proceeding any further. He towered over you and smirked, peering down at you.

Just the two of us again. Can I ask you a few questions? To put my curiosity to rest, to spark my fascination even more?

Now that we're somewhere more private I thought I'd be able to understand you better....what you are. Who you are, and why you are so utterly fascinating.

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta bit the inside of their cheek and nodded, fiddling with their hair.

I-…Suppose you can? I don’t see how that could be harmful. I didn’t realize you were so fascinated, Ace. There’s not that much about me that’s so intriguing.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess was fed up with not hearing from Aorta. The first time she had tried talking to them and she didn’t get a response! So she decided she’d take the matters into her own hands, and look for Aorta herself. She first tried just looking around. But obviously that was a bad shot. So she went to Stormy (very reluctantly) and only got a frown and a shrug. Her last resort was going to Alice’s church, and little did she know she’d be hiding in the bushes to listen in to Aorta’s conversation with…some guy?? Who was that??? @essere-distrutto-lol

Aorta didn’t see Dess, he was trying to talk to Ace about finding Alice. I don’t think it’s home…So maybe we could go to that little village and see if it’s there? Ace seemed quite insistent on staying around the church. And while the two of them went back and forth, Dess listened…Resisting the urge to not leap out and butt in.

@gibsoneleventh

[gibsoneleventh]

Sure! The village is exactly 256 metres to the south-east. Is there many inhabitants?

He seemed almost as cheery as he was when you first met him now, it felt so unnatural it almost made you sick.

How did he even know that? He clearly hadn't been here before, let alone in the forest at all. How on earth did he know that?

He shivered and huffed, sensing someone was nearby. He decided it best not to mention it.

[deepinyouraorta]

I think there may be a few. Children of adults running markets there…Oh, I wouldn’t want to scare them off.

Aorta’s appearance has scared people before.

How…Did you know where the village is, dear?

Dess scoffed in the bushes. ‘Dear’? What was this?! Despite that, she definitely had to follow them.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace continued smiling, cheerful as ever.

It sounds wonderful! We should go. It's not far, after all.

The corner of his mouth twitched.

I know a lot of things. Why?

[deepinyouraorta]

…No reason. Let’s go.

Aorta took Ace’s hand and walked them through the forest to the village. They still had no idea that Dess was following them through the bushes.

When they got there, it was exactly as Aorta had expected. The air was cold and the sky was dark, like it was about to rain over the town. Only some people lingered outside, and they seemed quite young.

It’s likely that Alice is in one of the shops…However, if you’d like to take a little walk around first? Just the two of us.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace scanned the village, it didn't seem familiar in the slightest. He'd take note of it for later. The only inhabitants he could see seemed oddly young, and the village felt empty.

ace could feel the hairs on the back of his neck raise, as if he were being watched. If the feeling occurred again, he decided it best to inform aorta.

Sure, why not? Is this where you're from, darling? It's... fascinating. For lack of a better word.

[deepinyouraorta]

Oh, no, not this one. My town is much…Brighter.

Aorta’s smile faded into a small frown.

It’s always a little bittersweet. Thinking about it.

…

…Mm, I think Alice had a residency here when they worked at the church normally. I’m guessing it’s been given away.

Aorta glances over at a small house and views a couple children chatting. They look up at him and he tries to smile, but it’s unsettling enough that they glance away.

…mm.

[gibsoneleventh]

I see. Your background fascinates me, darling. Truly.

Ace glanced at the children you smiled at but decided it best not to interact, as he got a chill up his spine once more. That's it. He was sick of this, he was going to tell aorta.

Aorta, darling? Do you feel that as well? That...dread?

He placed his hands on your shoulders and leaned over you while walking. He looked slightly less cheerful than usual, and whispered in your ear.

I think...I think we might have someone...observing us. And I don't mean the children.

[deepinyouraorta]

…Oh?

He was awfully close.

I dont feel it, no…But if someone is following us, we should hide…

Aorta tugged Ace into one of the buildings, that was…Certainly a house belonging to someone. They could get in big trouble.

Do you think it may be Alice? Their presence can be heavy…

[gibsoneleventh]

aces smile dropped suddenly as he took on a much more solemn tone.

No.

His words were stern.

he pushed you behind him gently as he trued to peak out the door again.

I can't seem to spot where they are... they must be good at...observing. whoever they are.

He mumbled under his breath;

Whatever they are.

stay behind me, darling. We wouldn't want you getting hurt now would we? I'd hate to have to chain you up again if you disobey me.

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta’s face paled a bit, and she backed up behind Ace, almost like she was hiding from him as well. She did not want to get chained up multiple times in one day, that would be…Catastrophic. So she was going to play it safe and stay right behind Ace. ….um. please don’t. The way she shrunk was just like how she would as a child. And outside, Dess scowled as she walked out of her hiding spot, looking around and finding nothing. ”𝔻𝔸𝕄ℕ𝕀𝕋! 𝕎𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝔾𝕆?!” She groaned defeatedly.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace's misshapen eyes locked onto dess as he pressed his hand against you, stopping you from walking forward.

...I won't then. I think we've found our little follower anyway.

He hid you behind the door and stood in the threshold, threatening a stance against dess. His smile was bright and he contrasting held out his palms in a "jazz hands" gesture.

Hey there, kiddo! You got a problem or something? What're you doing, kid?

There was a hint of aggression under his cheery tone as he shouted at dess from across the square.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess looked over at Ace, raising an eyebrow and crossing her arms.

“Ciao. I’m LOOKING for some sorta DEVIL named AORTA. Coulda SWORN I saw him with YA, so I thought I’d ASK.”

Dess smirked, walking up to him.

“Do you KNOW them? What’s your RELATION with them? Oh, BETTER YET. What’s your NAME?”

She reached her hand out to shake. There was a paper bracelet on her wrist, that said “Viaggiatore 178243” on it.

Aorta glanced over Ace’s shoulder, not far enough to be seen.

[gibsoneleventh]

The corners of ace's mouth strained slightly at your overconfidence. He looked at your hand and shook it just too firmly to be comfortable while sustaining his disgustingly cheery demeanor.

Hello, dess! My name is ace, and would you mind if I asked you why you need to know all that about aorta? Seems a bit invasive, don't ya think?

He let go of your hand finally and placed his hands on his hips, nearly glaring at you, bit his expression was just slightly too soft to be considered malicious.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess made a bit of a face, but a split second after it appeared her smirk came right back.

“That would be INDESIDERABILE to you.”

She wiped her hand on her dress.

“I was told by a PEST that Aorta would like SEEING me.”

Dess sneered a bit.

“Didn’t think I’d be met with such a ‘CHARMING’ fellow.”

Aorta put a hand on Ace’s shoulder and peeked out just a little more.

[gibsoneleventh]

"charming" was one way of putting it. False was another way. His smile curled into the shadow of a sneer.

Well, indesiderable, I don't know whom aorta is, nor where she might be. I didn't think I'd be met with such an "indesirable" individual either. You really should learn Italian better, darling.

He spread his arms further and leaned against either side if the doorframe to prevent you from spotting aorta peeking out behind him.

[deepinyouraorta]

”…Indesirable-?! I-!”

She wasn’t named that! Right? Right? …uh

Dess crossed her arms and huffed. This man was ticking her off! And plus, Aorta WAS that girl that was with him, right? Red and blue. That’s like heart colors or whatever.

“Well, I SAW her with YOU. So FESS UP, buddy. Non conosci l'italiano meglio della ragazza italiana di fronte a te...”

[gibsoneleventh]

ace giggled to himself at your quick temper, your short fuse was hilarious to him.

I don't know who you're talking about, honest! And I understand Italian very well, undesirable. I know everything, after all! I probably can speak it even better than you!

He giggled to himself and flicked his cale behind him to block you from seeing past the doorway

[deepinyouraorta]

”YOU can’t-!”

Jeez, this woman had no sense of humor, did she?

Aorta tugged on Ace’s arm, maybe to remind him to be civil, but obviously that wouldn’t work.

”…whatever. WHATEVER. y-…you’re clearly telling the truth or something. or maybe you’re NOT. I can’t exactly GIVE A SHIT right now.”

Dess turned away, her gaze running across the stone ground.

“…grazie per niente,” She snarled at the ground, before storming away without another glance back at Ace.

Aorta frowned at the sight. Sure, Dess seemed like an arrogant girl, but was all of that exactly necessary…?

…You didn’t have to do that, Aorta mumbled to Ace.

[gibsoneleventh]

ace just giggled as dess walked away, what an idiot! They really didn't notice aorta standing right behind him the whole time? It was priceless.

He kept giggling for about five seconds after your remark, before coming to his senses and backing up, placing his palm on your chest again and pushing you back gently to prevent dess from spotting you.

it's for the love of the game, darling! I thought you'd understand, but clearly not. That's alright! Why don't we take a little....detour before finding Alice? A little break wouldn't do us any harm, would it?

ONce he had pushed you back far enough he turned around and grabbed your arm, rushing around to the back of the building, dragging you along with him.

[deepinyouraorta]

A detour?

Aorta let herself be pushed back, but she had to rush to keep up with Ace’s quick steps.

Where are we going-?!

This was probably someone’s house! The sound of Aorta’s boots clacking against the floor was loud…What if someone was in here?

Ace, slow down..! We could be trespassing, I don’t want us to get caught!

Why were they going towards the back of the building??

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess was fed up with not hearing from Aorta. The first time she had tried talking to them and she didn’t get a response! So she decided she’d take the matters into her own hands, and look for Aorta herself. She first tried just looking around. But obviously that was a bad shot. So she went to Stormy (very reluctantly) and only got a frown and a shrug. Her last resort was going to Alice’s church, and little did she know she’d be hiding in the bushes to listen in to Aorta’s conversation with…some guy?? Who was that??? @essere-distrutto-lol

Aorta didn’t see Dess, he was trying to talk to Ace about finding Alice. I don’t think it’s home…So maybe we could go to that little village and see if it’s there? Ace seemed quite insistent on staying around the church. And while the two of them went back and forth, Dess listened…Resisting the urge to not leap out and butt in.

@gibsoneleventh

[gibsoneleventh]

Sure! The village is exactly 256 metres to the south-east. Is there many inhabitants?

He seemed almost as cheery as he was when you first met him now, it felt so unnatural it almost made you sick.

How did he even know that? He clearly hadn't been here before, let alone in the forest at all. How on earth did he know that?

He shivered and huffed, sensing someone was nearby. He decided it best not to mention it.

[deepinyouraorta]

I think there may be a few. Children of adults running markets there…Oh, I wouldn’t want to scare them off.

Aorta’s appearance has scared people before.

How…Did you know where the village is, dear?

Dess scoffed in the bushes. ‘Dear’? What was this?! Despite that, she definitely had to follow them.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace continued smiling, cheerful as ever.

It sounds wonderful! We should go. It's not far, after all.

The corner of his mouth twitched.

I know a lot of things. Why?

[deepinyouraorta]

…No reason. Let’s go.

Aorta took Ace’s hand and walked them through the forest to the village. They still had no idea that Dess was following them through the bushes.

When they got there, it was exactly as Aorta had expected. The air was cold and the sky was dark, like it was about to rain over the town. Only some people lingered outside, and they seemed quite young.

It’s likely that Alice is in one of the shops…However, if you’d like to take a little walk around first? Just the two of us.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace scanned the village, it didn't seem familiar in the slightest. He'd take note of it for later. The only inhabitants he could see seemed oddly young, and the village felt empty.

ace could feel the hairs on the back of his neck raise, as if he were being watched. If the feeling occurred again, he decided it best to inform aorta.

Sure, why not? Is this where you're from, darling? It's... fascinating. For lack of a better word.

[deepinyouraorta]

Oh, no, not this one. My town is much…Brighter.

Aorta’s smile faded into a small frown.

It’s always a little bittersweet. Thinking about it.

…

…Mm, I think Alice had a residency here when they worked at the church normally. I’m guessing it’s been given away.

Aorta glances over at a small house and views a couple children chatting. They look up at him and he tries to smile, but it’s unsettling enough that they glance away.

…mm.

[gibsoneleventh]

I see. Your background fascinates me, darling. Truly.

Ace glanced at the children you smiled at but decided it best not to interact, as he got a chill up his spine once more. That's it. He was sick of this, he was going to tell aorta.

Aorta, darling? Do you feel that as well? That...dread?

He placed his hands on your shoulders and leaned over you while walking. He looked slightly less cheerful than usual, and whispered in your ear.

I think...I think we might have someone...observing us. And I don't mean the children.

[deepinyouraorta]

…Oh?

He was awfully close.

I dont feel it, no…But if someone is following us, we should hide…

Aorta tugged Ace into one of the buildings, that was…Certainly a house belonging to someone. They could get in big trouble.

Do you think it may be Alice? Their presence can be heavy…

[gibsoneleventh]

aces smile dropped suddenly as he took on a much more solemn tone.

No.

His words were stern.

he pushed you behind him gently as he trued to peak out the door again.

I can't seem to spot where they are... they must be good at...observing. whoever they are.

He mumbled under his breath;

Whatever they are.

stay behind me, darling. We wouldn't want you getting hurt now would we? I'd hate to have to chain you up again if you disobey me.

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta’s face paled a bit, and she backed up behind Ace, almost like she was hiding from him as well. She did not want to get chained up multiple times in one day, that would be…Catastrophic. So she was going to play it safe and stay right behind Ace. ….um. please don’t. The way she shrunk was just like how she would as a child. And outside, Dess scowled as she walked out of her hiding spot, looking around and finding nothing. ”𝔻𝔸𝕄ℕ𝕀𝕋! 𝕎𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝔾𝕆?!” She groaned defeatedly.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace's misshapen eyes locked onto dess as he pressed his hand against you, stopping you from walking forward.

...I won't then. I think we've found our little follower anyway.

He hid you behind the door and stood in the threshold, threatening a stance against dess. His smile was bright and he contrasting held out his palms in a "jazz hands" gesture.

Hey there, kiddo! You got a problem or something? What're you doing, kid?

There was a hint of aggression under his cheery tone as he shouted at dess from across the square.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess looked over at Ace, raising an eyebrow and crossing her arms.

“Ciao. I’m LOOKING for some sorta DEVIL named AORTA. Coulda SWORN I saw him with YA, so I thought I’d ASK.”

Dess smirked, walking up to him.

“Do you KNOW them? What’s your RELATION with them? Oh, BETTER YET. What’s your NAME?”

She reached her hand out to shake. There was a paper bracelet on her wrist, that said “Viaggiatore 178243” on it.

Aorta glanced over Ace’s shoulder, not far enough to be seen.

[gibsoneleventh]

The corners of ace's mouth strained slightly at your overconfidence. He looked at your hand and shook it just too firmly to be comfortable while sustaining his disgustingly cheery demeanor.

Hello, dess! My name is ace, and would you mind if I asked you why you need to know all that about aorta? Seems a bit invasive, don't ya think?

He let go of your hand finally and placed his hands on his hips, nearly glaring at you, bit his expression was just slightly too soft to be considered malicious.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess made a bit of a face, but a split second after it appeared her smirk came right back.

“That would be INDESIDERABILE to you.”

She wiped her hand on her dress.

“I was told by a PEST that Aorta would like SEEING me.”

Dess sneered a bit.

“Didn’t think I’d be met with such a ‘CHARMING’ fellow.”

Aorta put a hand on Ace’s shoulder and peeked out just a little more.

[gibsoneleventh]

"charming" was one way of putting it. False was another way. His smile curled into the shadow of a sneer.

Well, indesiderable, I don't know whom aorta is, nor where she might be. I didn't think I'd be met with such an "indesirable" individual either. You really should learn Italian better, darling.

He spread his arms further and leaned against either side if the doorframe to prevent you from spotting aorta peeking out behind him.

[deepinyouraorta]

”…Indesirable-?! I-!”

She wasn’t named that! Right? Right? …uh

Dess crossed her arms and huffed. This man was ticking her off! And plus, Aorta WAS that girl that was with him, right? Red and blue. That’s like heart colors or whatever.

“Well, I SAW her with YOU. So FESS UP, buddy. Non conosci l'italiano meglio della ragazza italiana di fronte a te...”

[gibsoneleventh]

ace giggled to himself at your quick temper, your short fuse was hilarious to him.

I don't know who you're talking about, honest! And I understand Italian very well, undesirable. I know everything, after all! I probably can speak it even better than you!

He giggled to himself and flicked his cale behind him to block you from seeing past the doorway

[deepinyouraorta]

”YOU can’t-!”

Jeez, this woman had no sense of humor, did she?

Aorta tugged on Ace’s arm, maybe to remind him to be civil, but obviously that wouldn’t work.

”…whatever. WHATEVER. y-…you’re clearly telling the truth or something. or maybe you’re NOT. I can’t exactly GIVE A SHIT right now.”

Dess turned away, her gaze running across the stone ground.

“…grazie per niente,” She snarled at the ground, before storming away without another glance back at Ace.

Aorta frowned at the sight. Sure, Dess seemed like an arrogant girl, but was all of that exactly necessary…?

…You didn’t have to do that, Aorta mumbled to Ace.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess was fed up with not hearing from Aorta. The first time she had tried talking to them and she didn’t get a response! So she decided she’d take the matters into her own hands, and look for Aorta herself. She first tried just looking around. But obviously that was a bad shot. So she went to Stormy (very reluctantly) and only got a frown and a shrug. Her last resort was going to Alice’s church, and little did she know she’d be hiding in the bushes to listen in to Aorta’s conversation with…some guy?? Who was that??? @essere-distrutto-lol

Aorta didn’t see Dess, he was trying to talk to Ace about finding Alice. I don’t think it’s home…So maybe we could go to that little village and see if it’s there? Ace seemed quite insistent on staying around the church. And while the two of them went back and forth, Dess listened…Resisting the urge to not leap out and butt in.

@gibsoneleventh

[gibsoneleventh]

Sure! The village is exactly 256 metres to the south-east. Is there many inhabitants?

He seemed almost as cheery as he was when you first met him now, it felt so unnatural it almost made you sick.

How did he even know that? He clearly hadn't been here before, let alone in the forest at all. How on earth did he know that?

He shivered and huffed, sensing someone was nearby. He decided it best not to mention it.

[deepinyouraorta]

I think there may be a few. Children of adults running markets there…Oh, I wouldn’t want to scare them off.

Aorta’s appearance has scared people before.

How…Did you know where the village is, dear?

Dess scoffed in the bushes. ‘Dear’? What was this?! Despite that, she definitely had to follow them.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace continued smiling, cheerful as ever.

It sounds wonderful! We should go. It's not far, after all.

The corner of his mouth twitched.

I know a lot of things. Why?

[deepinyouraorta]

…No reason. Let’s go.

Aorta took Ace’s hand and walked them through the forest to the village. They still had no idea that Dess was following them through the bushes.

When they got there, it was exactly as Aorta had expected. The air was cold and the sky was dark, like it was about to rain over the town. Only some people lingered outside, and they seemed quite young.

It’s likely that Alice is in one of the shops…However, if you’d like to take a little walk around first? Just the two of us.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace scanned the village, it didn't seem familiar in the slightest. He'd take note of it for later. The only inhabitants he could see seemed oddly young, and the village felt empty.

ace could feel the hairs on the back of his neck raise, as if he were being watched. If the feeling occurred again, he decided it best to inform aorta.

Sure, why not? Is this where you're from, darling? It's... fascinating. For lack of a better word.

[deepinyouraorta]

Oh, no, not this one. My town is much…Brighter.

Aorta’s smile faded into a small frown.

It’s always a little bittersweet. Thinking about it.

…

…Mm, I think Alice had a residency here when they worked at the church normally. I’m guessing it’s been given away.

Aorta glances over at a small house and views a couple children chatting. They look up at him and he tries to smile, but it’s unsettling enough that they glance away.

…mm.

[gibsoneleventh]

I see. Your background fascinates me, darling. Truly.

Ace glanced at the children you smiled at but decided it best not to interact, as he got a chill up his spine once more. That's it. He was sick of this, he was going to tell aorta.

Aorta, darling? Do you feel that as well? That...dread?

He placed his hands on your shoulders and leaned over you while walking. He looked slightly less cheerful than usual, and whispered in your ear.

I think...I think we might have someone...observing us. And I don't mean the children.

[deepinyouraorta]

…Oh?

He was awfully close.

I dont feel it, no…But if someone is following us, we should hide…

Aorta tugged Ace into one of the buildings, that was…Certainly a house belonging to someone. They could get in big trouble.

Do you think it may be Alice? Their presence can be heavy…

[gibsoneleventh]

aces smile dropped suddenly as he took on a much more solemn tone.

No.

His words were stern.

he pushed you behind him gently as he trued to peak out the door again.

I can't seem to spot where they are... they must be good at...observing. whoever they are.

He mumbled under his breath;

Whatever they are.

stay behind me, darling. We wouldn't want you getting hurt now would we? I'd hate to have to chain you up again if you disobey me.

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta’s face paled a bit, and she backed up behind Ace, almost like she was hiding from him as well. She did not want to get chained up multiple times in one day, that would be…Catastrophic. So she was going to play it safe and stay right behind Ace. ….um. please don’t. The way she shrunk was just like how she would as a child. And outside, Dess scowled as she walked out of her hiding spot, looking around and finding nothing. ”𝔻𝔸𝕄ℕ𝕀𝕋! 𝕎𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝔾𝕆?!” She groaned defeatedly.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace's misshapen eyes locked onto dess as he pressed his hand against you, stopping you from walking forward.

...I won't then. I think we've found our little follower anyway.

He hid you behind the door and stood in the threshold, threatening a stance against dess. His smile was bright and he contrasting held out his palms in a "jazz hands" gesture.

Hey there, kiddo! You got a problem or something? What're you doing, kid?

There was a hint of aggression under his cheery tone as he shouted at dess from across the square.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess looked over at Ace, raising an eyebrow and crossing her arms.

“Ciao. I’m LOOKING for some sorta DEVIL named AORTA. Coulda SWORN I saw him with YA, so I thought I’d ASK.”

Dess smirked, walking up to him.

“Do you KNOW them? What’s your RELATION with them? Oh, BETTER YET. What’s your NAME?”

She reached her hand out to shake. There was a paper bracelet on her wrist, that said “Viaggiatore 178243” on it.

Aorta glanced over Ace’s shoulder, not far enough to be seen.

[gibsoneleventh]

The corners of ace's mouth strained slightly at your overconfidence. He looked at your hand and shook it just too firmly to be comfortable while sustaining his disgustingly cheery demeanor.

Hello, dess! My name is ace, and would you mind if I asked you why you need to know all that about aorta? Seems a bit invasive, don't ya think?

He let go of your hand finally and placed his hands on his hips, nearly glaring at you, bit his expression was just slightly too soft to be considered malicious.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess made a bit of a face, but a split second after it appeared her smirk came right back.

“That would be INDESIDERABILE to you.”

She wiped her hand on her dress.

“I was told by a PEST that Aorta would like SEEING me.”

Dess sneered a bit.

“Didn’t think I’d be met with such a ‘CHARMING’ fellow.”

Aorta put a hand on Ace’s shoulder and peeked out just a little more.

[gibsoneleventh]

"charming" was one way of putting it. False was another way. His smile curled into the shadow of a sneer.

Well, indesiderable, I don't know whom aorta is, nor where she might be. I didn't think I'd be met with such an "indesirable" individual either. You really should learn Italian better, darling.

He spread his arms further and leaned against either side if the doorframe to prevent you from spotting aorta peeking out behind him.

[deepinyouraorta]

”…Indesirable-?! I-!”

She wasn’t named that! Right? Right? …uh

Dess crossed her arms and huffed. This man was ticking her off! And plus, Aorta WAS that girl that was with him, right? Red and blue. That’s like heart colors or whatever.

“Well, I SAW her with YOU. So FESS UP, buddy. Non conosci l'italiano meglio della ragazza italiana di fronte a te...”

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess was fed up with not hearing from Aorta. The first time she had tried talking to them and she didn’t get a response! So she decided she’d take the matters into her own hands, and look for Aorta herself. She first tried just looking around. But obviously that was a bad shot. So she went to Stormy (very reluctantly) and only got a frown and a shrug. Her last resort was going to Alice’s church, and little did she know she’d be hiding in the bushes to listen in to Aorta’s conversation with…some guy?? Who was that??? @essere-distrutto-lol

Aorta didn’t see Dess, he was trying to talk to Ace about finding Alice. I don’t think it’s home…So maybe we could go to that little village and see if it’s there? Ace seemed quite insistent on staying around the church. And while the two of them went back and forth, Dess listened…Resisting the urge to not leap out and butt in.

@gibsoneleventh

[gibsoneleventh]

Sure! The village is exactly 256 metres to the south-east. Is there many inhabitants?

He seemed almost as cheery as he was when you first met him now, it felt so unnatural it almost made you sick.

How did he even know that? He clearly hadn't been here before, let alone in the forest at all. How on earth did he know that?

He shivered and huffed, sensing someone was nearby. He decided it best not to mention it.

[deepinyouraorta]

I think there may be a few. Children of adults running markets there…Oh, I wouldn’t want to scare them off.

Aorta’s appearance has scared people before.

How…Did you know where the village is, dear?

Dess scoffed in the bushes. ‘Dear’? What was this?! Despite that, she definitely had to follow them.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace continued smiling, cheerful as ever.

It sounds wonderful! We should go. It's not far, after all.

The corner of his mouth twitched.

I know a lot of things. Why?

[deepinyouraorta]

…No reason. Let’s go.

Aorta took Ace’s hand and walked them through the forest to the village. They still had no idea that Dess was following them through the bushes.

When they got there, it was exactly as Aorta had expected. The air was cold and the sky was dark, like it was about to rain over the town. Only some people lingered outside, and they seemed quite young.

It’s likely that Alice is in one of the shops…However, if you’d like to take a little walk around first? Just the two of us.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace scanned the village, it didn't seem familiar in the slightest. He'd take note of it for later. The only inhabitants he could see seemed oddly young, and the village felt empty.

ace could feel the hairs on the back of his neck raise, as if he were being watched. If the feeling occurred again, he decided it best to inform aorta.

Sure, why not? Is this where you're from, darling? It's... fascinating. For lack of a better word.

[deepinyouraorta]

Oh, no, not this one. My town is much…Brighter.

Aorta’s smile faded into a small frown.

It’s always a little bittersweet. Thinking about it.

…

…Mm, I think Alice had a residency here when they worked at the church normally. I’m guessing it’s been given away.

Aorta glances over at a small house and views a couple children chatting. They look up at him and he tries to smile, but it’s unsettling enough that they glance away.

…mm.

[gibsoneleventh]

I see. Your background fascinates me, darling. Truly.

Ace glanced at the children you smiled at but decided it best not to interact, as he got a chill up his spine once more. That's it. He was sick of this, he was going to tell aorta.

Aorta, darling? Do you feel that as well? That...dread?

He placed his hands on your shoulders and leaned over you while walking. He looked slightly less cheerful than usual, and whispered in your ear.

I think...I think we might have someone...observing us. And I don't mean the children.

[deepinyouraorta]

…Oh?

He was awfully close.

I dont feel it, no…But if someone is following us, we should hide…

Aorta tugged Ace into one of the buildings, that was…Certainly a house belonging to someone. They could get in big trouble.

Do you think it may be Alice? Their presence can be heavy…

[gibsoneleventh]

aces smile dropped suddenly as he took on a much more solemn tone.

No.

His words were stern.

he pushed you behind him gently as he trued to peak out the door again.

I can't seem to spot where they are... they must be good at...observing. whoever they are.

He mumbled under his breath;

Whatever they are.

stay behind me, darling. We wouldn't want you getting hurt now would we? I'd hate to have to chain you up again if you disobey me.

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta’s face paled a bit, and she backed up behind Ace, almost like she was hiding from him as well. She did not want to get chained up multiple times in one day, that would be…Catastrophic. So she was going to play it safe and stay right behind Ace. ….um. please don’t. The way she shrunk was just like how she would as a child. And outside, Dess scowled as she walked out of her hiding spot, looking around and finding nothing. ”𝔻𝔸𝕄ℕ𝕀𝕋! 𝕎𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝔾𝕆?!” She groaned defeatedly.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace's misshapen eyes locked onto dess as he pressed his hand against you, stopping you from walking forward.

...I won't then. I think we've found our little follower anyway.

He hid you behind the door and stood in the threshold, threatening a stance against dess. His smile was bright and he contrasting held out his palms in a "jazz hands" gesture.

Hey there, kiddo! You got a problem or something? What're you doing, kid?

There was a hint of aggression under his cheery tone as he shouted at dess from across the square.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess looked over at Ace, raising an eyebrow and crossing her arms.

“Ciao. I’m LOOKING for some sorta DEVIL named AORTA. Coulda SWORN I saw him with YA, so I thought I’d ASK.”

Dess smirked, walking up to him.

“Do you KNOW them? What’s your RELATION with them? Oh, BETTER YET. What’s your NAME?”

She reached her hand out to shake. There was a paper bracelet on her wrist, that said “Viaggiatore 178243” on it.

Aorta glanced over Ace’s shoulder, not far enough to be seen.

[gibsoneleventh]

The corners of ace's mouth strained slightly at your overconfidence. He looked at your hand and shook it just too firmly to be comfortable while sustaining his disgustingly cheery demeanor.

Hello, dess! My name is ace, and would you mind if I asked you why you need to know all that about aorta? Seems a bit invasive, don't ya think?

He let go of your hand finally and placed his hands on his hips, nearly glaring at you, bit his expression was just slightly too soft to be considered malicious.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess made a bit of a face, but a split second after it appeared her smirk came right back.

“That would be INDESIDERABILE to you.”

She wiped her hand on her dress.

“I was told by a PEST that Aorta would like SEEING me.”

Dess sneered a bit.

“Didn’t think I’d be met with such a ‘CHARMING’ fellow.”

Aorta put a hand on Ace’s shoulder and peeked out just a little more.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess was fed up with not hearing from Aorta. The first time she had tried talking to them and she didn’t get a response! So she decided she’d take the matters into her own hands, and look for Aorta herself. She first tried just looking around. But obviously that was a bad shot. So she went to Stormy (very reluctantly) and only got a frown and a shrug. Her last resort was going to Alice’s church, and little did she know she’d be hiding in the bushes to listen in to Aorta’s conversation with…some guy?? Who was that??? @essere-distrutto-lol

Aorta didn’t see Dess, he was trying to talk to Ace about finding Alice. I don’t think it’s home…So maybe we could go to that little village and see if it’s there? Ace seemed quite insistent on staying around the church. And while the two of them went back and forth, Dess listened…Resisting the urge to not leap out and butt in.

@gibsoneleventh

[gibsoneleventh]

Sure! The village is exactly 256 metres to the south-east. Is there many inhabitants?

He seemed almost as cheery as he was when you first met him now, it felt so unnatural it almost made you sick.

How did he even know that? He clearly hadn't been here before, let alone in the forest at all. How on earth did he know that?

He shivered and huffed, sensing someone was nearby. He decided it best not to mention it.

[deepinyouraorta]

I think there may be a few. Children of adults running markets there…Oh, I wouldn’t want to scare them off.

Aorta’s appearance has scared people before.

How…Did you know where the village is, dear?

Dess scoffed in the bushes. ‘Dear’? What was this?! Despite that, she definitely had to follow them.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace continued smiling, cheerful as ever.

It sounds wonderful! We should go. It's not far, after all.

The corner of his mouth twitched.

I know a lot of things. Why?

[deepinyouraorta]

…No reason. Let’s go.

Aorta took Ace’s hand and walked them through the forest to the village. They still had no idea that Dess was following them through the bushes.

When they got there, it was exactly as Aorta had expected. The air was cold and the sky was dark, like it was about to rain over the town. Only some people lingered outside, and they seemed quite young.

It’s likely that Alice is in one of the shops…However, if you’d like to take a little walk around first? Just the two of us.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace scanned the village, it didn't seem familiar in the slightest. He'd take note of it for later. The only inhabitants he could see seemed oddly young, and the village felt empty.

ace could feel the hairs on the back of his neck raise, as if he were being watched. If the feeling occurred again, he decided it best to inform aorta.

Sure, why not? Is this where you're from, darling? It's... fascinating. For lack of a better word.

[deepinyouraorta]

Oh, no, not this one. My town is much…Brighter.

Aorta’s smile faded into a small frown.

It’s always a little bittersweet. Thinking about it.

…

…Mm, I think Alice had a residency here when they worked at the church normally. I’m guessing it’s been given away.

Aorta glances over at a small house and views a couple children chatting. They look up at him and he tries to smile, but it’s unsettling enough that they glance away.

…mm.

[gibsoneleventh]

I see. Your background fascinates me, darling. Truly.

Ace glanced at the children you smiled at but decided it best not to interact, as he got a chill up his spine once more. That's it. He was sick of this, he was going to tell aorta.

Aorta, darling? Do you feel that as well? That...dread?

He placed his hands on your shoulders and leaned over you while walking. He looked slightly less cheerful than usual, and whispered in your ear.

I think...I think we might have someone...observing us. And I don't mean the children.

[deepinyouraorta]

…Oh?

He was awfully close.

I dont feel it, no…But if someone is following us, we should hide…

Aorta tugged Ace into one of the buildings, that was…Certainly a house belonging to someone. They could get in big trouble.

Do you think it may be Alice? Their presence can be heavy…

[gibsoneleventh]

aces smile dropped suddenly as he took on a much more solemn tone.

No.

His words were stern.

he pushed you behind him gently as he trued to peak out the door again.

I can't seem to spot where they are... they must be good at...observing. whoever they are.

He mumbled under his breath;

Whatever they are.

stay behind me, darling. We wouldn't want you getting hurt now would we? I'd hate to have to chain you up again if you disobey me.

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta’s face paled a bit, and she backed up behind Ace, almost like she was hiding from him as well. She did not want to get chained up multiple times in one day, that would be…Catastrophic. So she was going to play it safe and stay right behind Ace. ….um. please don’t. The way she shrunk was just like how she would as a child. And outside, Dess scowled as she walked out of her hiding spot, looking around and finding nothing. ”𝔻𝔸𝕄ℕ𝕀𝕋! 𝕎𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝔾𝕆?!” She groaned defeatedly.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace's misshapen eyes locked onto dess as he pressed his hand against you, stopping you from walking forward.

...I won't then. I think we've found our little follower anyway.

He hid you behind the door and stood in the threshold, threatening a stance against dess. His smile was bright and he contrasting held out his palms in a "jazz hands" gesture.

Hey there, kiddo! You got a problem or something? What're you doing, kid?

There was a hint of aggression under his cheery tone as he shouted at dess from across the square.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess looked over at Ace, raising an eyebrow and crossing her arms.

“Ciao. I’m LOOKING for some sorta DEVIL named AORTA. Coulda SWORN I saw him with YA, so I thought I’d ASK.”

Dess smirked, walking up to him.

“Do you KNOW them? What’s your RELATION with them? Oh, BETTER YET. What’s your NAME?”

She reached her hand out to shake. There was a paper bracelet on her wrist, that said “Viaggiatore 178243” on it.

Aorta glanced over Ace’s shoulder, not far enough to be seen.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess was fed up with not hearing from Aorta. The first time she had tried talking to them and she didn’t get a response! So she decided she’d take the matters into her own hands, and look for Aorta herself. She first tried just looking around. But obviously that was a bad shot. So she went to Stormy (very reluctantly) and only got a frown and a shrug. Her last resort was going to Alice’s church, and little did she know she’d be hiding in the bushes to listen in to Aorta’s conversation with…some guy?? Who was that??? @essere-distrutto-lol

Aorta didn’t see Dess, he was trying to talk to Ace about finding Alice. I don’t think it’s home…So maybe we could go to that little village and see if it’s there? Ace seemed quite insistent on staying around the church. And while the two of them went back and forth, Dess listened…Resisting the urge to not leap out and butt in.

@gibsoneleventh

[gibsoneleventh]

Sure! The village is exactly 256 metres to the south-east. Is there many inhabitants?

He seemed almost as cheery as he was when you first met him now, it felt so unnatural it almost made you sick.

How did he even know that? He clearly hadn't been here before, let alone in the forest at all. How on earth did he know that?

He shivered and huffed, sensing someone was nearby. He decided it best not to mention it.

[deepinyouraorta]

I think there may be a few. Children of adults running markets there…Oh, I wouldn’t want to scare them off.

Aorta’s appearance has scared people before.

How…Did you know where the village is, dear?

Dess scoffed in the bushes. ‘Dear’? What was this?! Despite that, she definitely had to follow them.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace continued smiling, cheerful as ever.

It sounds wonderful! We should go. It's not far, after all.

The corner of his mouth twitched.

I know a lot of things. Why?

[deepinyouraorta]

…No reason. Let’s go.

Aorta took Ace’s hand and walked them through the forest to the village. They still had no idea that Dess was following them through the bushes.

When they got there, it was exactly as Aorta had expected. The air was cold and the sky was dark, like it was about to rain over the town. Only some people lingered outside, and they seemed quite young.

It’s likely that Alice is in one of the shops…However, if you’d like to take a little walk around first? Just the two of us.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace scanned the village, it didn't seem familiar in the slightest. He'd take note of it for later. The only inhabitants he could see seemed oddly young, and the village felt empty.

ace could feel the hairs on the back of his neck raise, as if he were being watched. If the feeling occurred again, he decided it best to inform aorta.

Sure, why not? Is this where you're from, darling? It's... fascinating. For lack of a better word.

[deepinyouraorta]

Oh, no, not this one. My town is much…Brighter.

Aorta’s smile faded into a small frown.

It’s always a little bittersweet. Thinking about it.

…

…Mm, I think Alice had a residency here when they worked at the church normally. I’m guessing it’s been given away.

Aorta glances over at a small house and views a couple children chatting. They look up at him and he tries to smile, but it’s unsettling enough that they glance away.

…mm.

[gibsoneleventh]

I see. Your background fascinates me, darling. Truly.

Ace glanced at the children you smiled at but decided it best not to interact, as he got a chill up his spine once more. That's it. He was sick of this, he was going to tell aorta.

Aorta, darling? Do you feel that as well? That...dread?

He placed his hands on your shoulders and leaned over you while walking. He looked slightly less cheerful than usual, and whispered in your ear.

I think...I think we might have someone...observing us. And I don't mean the children.

[deepinyouraorta]

…Oh?

He was awfully close.

I dont feel it, no…But if someone is following us, we should hide…

Aorta tugged Ace into one of the buildings, that was…Certainly a house belonging to someone. They could get in big trouble.

Do you think it may be Alice? Their presence can be heavy…

[gibsoneleventh]

aces smile dropped suddenly as he took on a much more solemn tone.

No.

His words were stern.

he pushed you behind him gently as he trued to peak out the door again.

I can't seem to spot where they are... they must be good at...observing. whoever they are.

He mumbled under his breath;

Whatever they are.

stay behind me, darling. We wouldn't want you getting hurt now would we? I'd hate to have to chain you up again if you disobey me.

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta’s face paled a bit, and she backed up behind Ace, almost like she was hiding from him as well. She did not want to get chained up multiple times in one day, that would be…Catastrophic. So she was going to play it safe and stay right behind Ace. ….um. please don’t. The way she shrunk was just like how she would as a child. And outside, Dess scowled as she walked out of her hiding spot, looking around and finding nothing. ”𝔻𝔸𝕄ℕ𝕀𝕋! 𝕎𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝔾𝕆?!” She groaned defeatedly.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess was fed up with not hearing from Aorta. The first time she had tried talking to them and she didn’t get a response! So she decided she’d take the matters into her own hands, and look for Aorta herself. She first tried just looking around. But obviously that was a bad shot. So she went to Stormy (very reluctantly) and only got a frown and a shrug. Her last resort was going to Alice’s church, and little did she know she’d be hiding in the bushes to listen in to Aorta’s conversation with…some guy?? Who was that??? @essere-distrutto-lol

Aorta didn’t see Dess, he was trying to talk to Ace about finding Alice. I don’t think it’s home…So maybe we could go to that little village and see if it’s there? Ace seemed quite insistent on staying around the church. And while the two of them went back and forth, Dess listened…Resisting the urge to not leap out and butt in.

@gibsoneleventh

[gibsoneleventh]

Sure! The village is exactly 256 metres to the south-east. Is there many inhabitants?

He seemed almost as cheery as he was when you first met him now, it felt so unnatural it almost made you sick.

How did he even know that? He clearly hadn't been here before, let alone in the forest at all. How on earth did he know that?

He shivered and huffed, sensing someone was nearby. He decided it best not to mention it.

[deepinyouraorta]

I think there may be a few. Children of adults running markets there…Oh, I wouldn’t want to scare them off.

Aorta’s appearance has scared people before.

How…Did you know where the village is, dear?

Dess scoffed in the bushes. ‘Dear’? What was this?! Despite that, she definitely had to follow them.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace continued smiling, cheerful as ever.

It sounds wonderful! We should go. It's not far, after all.

The corner of his mouth twitched.

I know a lot of things. Why?

[deepinyouraorta]

…No reason. Let’s go.

Aorta took Ace’s hand and walked them through the forest to the village. They still had no idea that Dess was following them through the bushes.

When they got there, it was exactly as Aorta had expected. The air was cold and the sky was dark, like it was about to rain over the town. Only some people lingered outside, and they seemed quite young.

It’s likely that Alice is in one of the shops…However, if you’d like to take a little walk around first? Just the two of us.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace scanned the village, it didn't seem familiar in the slightest. He'd take note of it for later. The only inhabitants he could see seemed oddly young, and the village felt empty.

ace could feel the hairs on the back of his neck raise, as if he were being watched. If the feeling occurred again, he decided it best to inform aorta.

Sure, why not? Is this where you're from, darling? It's... fascinating. For lack of a better word.

[deepinyouraorta]

Oh, no, not this one. My town is much…Brighter.

Aorta’s smile faded into a small frown.

It’s always a little bittersweet. Thinking about it.

…

…Mm, I think Alice had a residency here when they worked at the church normally. I’m guessing it’s been given away.

Aorta glances over at a small house and views a couple children chatting. They look up at him and he tries to smile, but it’s unsettling enough that they glance away.

…mm.

[gibsoneleventh]

I see. Your background fascinates me, darling. Truly.

Ace glanced at the children you smiled at but decided it best not to interact, as he got a chill up his spine once more. That's it. He was sick of this, he was going to tell aorta.

Aorta, darling? Do you feel that as well? That...dread?

He placed his hands on your shoulders and leaned over you while walking. He looked slightly less cheerful than usual, and whispered in your ear.

I think...I think we might have someone...observing us. And I don't mean the children.

[deepinyouraorta]

…Oh?

He was awfully close.

I dont feel it, no…But if someone is following us, we should hide…

Aorta tugged Ace into one of the buildings, that was…Certainly a house belonging to someone. They could get in big trouble.

Do you think it may be Alice? Their presence can be heavy…

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess was fed up with not hearing from Aorta. The first time she had tried talking to them and she didn’t get a response! So she decided she’d take the matters into her own hands, and look for Aorta herself. She first tried just looking around. But obviously that was a bad shot. So she went to Stormy (very reluctantly) and only got a frown and a shrug. Her last resort was going to Alice’s church, and little did she know she’d be hiding in the bushes to listen in to Aorta’s conversation with…some guy?? Who was that??? @essere-distrutto-lol

Aorta didn’t see Dess, he was trying to talk to Ace about finding Alice. I don’t think it’s home…So maybe we could go to that little village and see if it’s there? Ace seemed quite insistent on staying around the church. And while the two of them went back and forth, Dess listened…Resisting the urge to not leap out and butt in.

@gibsoneleventh

[gibsoneleventh]

Sure! The village is exactly 256 metres to the south-east. Is there many inhabitants?

He seemed almost as cheery as he was when you first met him now, it felt so unnatural it almost made you sick.

How did he even know that? He clearly hadn't been here before, let alone in the forest at all. How on earth did he know that?

He shivered and huffed, sensing someone was nearby. He decided it best not to mention it.

[deepinyouraorta]

I think there may be a few. Children of adults running markets there…Oh, I wouldn’t want to scare them off.

Aorta’s appearance has scared people before.

How…Did you know where the village is, dear?

Dess scoffed in the bushes. ‘Dear’? What was this?! Despite that, she definitely had to follow them.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace continued smiling, cheerful as ever.

It sounds wonderful! We should go. It's not far, after all.

The corner of his mouth twitched.

I know a lot of things. Why?

[deepinyouraorta]

…No reason. Let’s go.

Aorta took Ace’s hand and walked them through the forest to the village. They still had no idea that Dess was following them through the bushes.

When they got there, it was exactly as Aorta had expected. The air was cold and the sky was dark, like it was about to rain over the town. Only some people lingered outside, and they seemed quite young.

It’s likely that Alice is in one of the shops…However, if you’d like to take a little walk around first? Just the two of us.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace scanned the village, it didn't seem familiar in the slightest. He'd take note of it for later. The only inhabitants he could see seemed oddly young, and the village felt empty.

ace could feel the hairs on the back of his neck raise, as if he were being watched. If the feeling occurred again, he decided it best to inform aorta.

Sure, why not? Is this where you're from, darling? It's... fascinating. For lack of a better word.

[deepinyouraorta]

Oh, no, not this one. My town is much…Brighter.

Aorta’s smile faded into a small frown.

It’s always a little bittersweet. Thinking about it.

…

…Mm, I think Alice had a residency here when they worked at the church normally. I’m guessing it’s been given away.

Aorta glances over at a small house and views a couple children chatting. They look up at him and he tries to smile, but it’s unsettling enough that they glance away.

…mm.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess was fed up with not hearing from Aorta. The first time she had tried talking to them and she didn’t get a response! So she decided she’d take the matters into her own hands, and look for Aorta herself. She first tried just looking around. But obviously that was a bad shot. So she went to Stormy (very reluctantly) and only got a frown and a shrug. Her last resort was going to Alice’s church, and little did she know she’d be hiding in the bushes to listen in to Aorta’s conversation with…some guy?? Who was that??? @essere-distrutto-lol

Aorta didn’t see Dess, he was trying to talk to Ace about finding Alice. I don’t think it’s home…So maybe we could go to that little village and see if it’s there? Ace seemed quite insistent on staying around the church. And while the two of them went back and forth, Dess listened…Resisting the urge to not leap out and butt in.

@gibsoneleventh

[gibsoneleventh]

Sure! The village is exactly 256 metres to the south-east. Is there many inhabitants?

He seemed almost as cheery as he was when you first met him now, it felt so unnatural it almost made you sick.

How did he even know that? He clearly hadn't been here before, let alone in the forest at all. How on earth did he know that?

He shivered and huffed, sensing someone was nearby. He decided it best not to mention it.

[deepinyouraorta]

I think there may be a few. Children of adults running markets there…Oh, I wouldn’t want to scare them off.

Aorta’s appearance has scared people before.

How…Did you know where the village is, dear?

Dess scoffed in the bushes. ‘Dear’? What was this?! Despite that, she definitely had to follow them.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace continued smiling, cheerful as ever.

It sounds wonderful! We should go. It's not far, after all.

The corner of his mouth twitched.

I know a lot of things. Why?

[deepinyouraorta]

…No reason. Let’s go.

Aorta took Ace’s hand and walked them through the forest to the village. They still had no idea that Dess was following them through the bushes.

When they got there, it was exactly as Aorta had expected. The air was cold and the sky was dark, like it was about to rain over the town. Only some people lingered outside, and they seemed quite young.

It’s likely that Alice is in one of the shops…However, if you’d like to take a little walk around first? Just the two of us.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess was fed up with not hearing from Aorta. The first time she had tried talking to them and she didn’t get a response! So she decided she’d take the matters into her own hands, and look for Aorta herself. She first tried just looking around. But obviously that was a bad shot. So she went to Stormy (very reluctantly) and only got a frown and a shrug. Her last resort was going to Alice’s church, and little did she know she’d be hiding in the bushes to listen in to Aorta’s conversation with…some guy?? Who was that??? @essere-distrutto-lol

Aorta didn’t see Dess, he was trying to talk to Ace about finding Alice. I don’t think it’s home…So maybe we could go to that little village and see if it’s there? Ace seemed quite insistent on staying around the church. And while the two of them went back and forth, Dess listened…Resisting the urge to not leap out and butt in.

@gibsoneleventh

[gibsoneleventh]

Sure! The village is exactly 256 metres to the south-east. Is there many inhabitants?

He seemed almost as cheery as he was when you first met him now, it felt so unnatural it almost made you sick.

How did he even know that? He clearly hadn't been here before, let alone in the forest at all. How on earth did he know that?

He shivered and huffed, sensing someone was nearby. He decided it best not to mention it.

[deepinyouraorta]

I think there may be a few. Children of adults running markets there…Oh, I wouldn’t want to scare them off.

Aorta’s appearance has scared people before.

How…Did you know where the village is, dear?

Dess scoffed in the bushes. ‘Dear’? What was this?! Despite that, she definitely had to follow them.

[deepinyouraorta]

Dess was fed up with not hearing from Aorta. The first time she had tried talking to them and she didn’t get a response! So she decided she’d take the matters into her own hands, and look for Aorta herself. She first tried just looking around. But obviously that was a bad shot. So she went to Stormy (very reluctantly) and only got a frown and a shrug. Her last resort was going to Alice’s church, and little did she know she’d be hiding in the bushes to listen in to Aorta’s conversation with…some guy?? Who was that??? @essere-distrutto-lol

Aorta didn’t see Dess, he was trying to talk to Ace about finding Alice. I don’t think it’s home…So maybe we could go to that little village and see if it’s there? Ace seemed quite insistent on staying around the church. And while the two of them went back and forth, Dess listened…Resisting the urge to not leap out and butt in.

@gibsoneleventh

[deepinyouraorta]

Oh…No, I don’t think I’d favor that, thank you.

Aorta glanced at her side to see Ace’s tail inching towards her. It was getting…Quite close. She could feel it starting to brush against her. So she shuffled forward a bit, so that she was closer to Ace.

Don’t fret! I’m not going anywhere for now.

@gibsoneleventh

[gibsoneleventh]

oh...such a pity.

His tail finally edged close enough as he wrapped it around your arm, holding you tight.

Oh I know.

His face shifted as he stood up, pulling you up with him. It shifted into something more...normal. his grin just seemed malicious now, not unnatural. His eyes still looked the same, but asides from that his face actually looked...rather attractive. How did he do that?

Having a more welcoming face would make the next part so much easier.

he wrapped his tail around your waist and grabbed your wrist as he walked you upstairs to a small room and two chains hanging from the wall. Reddish brown liquid stained some of the nearby wallpaper and floorboards.

You know, I'm just so fascinated by whatever little critter you are that I'd like to get a closer look at you! Seem okay?

It didn't seem like you had much of a choice either way.

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta tensed up when he saw the chains. He knew exactly where this was going and he did not like it.

Um- n-no, I’d really rather you didn’t-!

Oh, but it was too late. Aorta was forced onto the wall and Ace chained them down before they could run away. The cold metal on their arms, the restricted movement, the way their breathing shallower and their heart rate picked up…It all brought back some very bad memories.

Ace, darling, could you let me go?!

He wouldn’t. They should’ve known that he wouldn’t. And now Aorta was a lab rat in the hands of a mad scientist.

[gibsoneleventh]

he grinned and tilted his head to the side. Taking a step closer towards you. He was so close now you could almost feel his breath down your neck.

I told you that you fascinated me. Now I can really... take everything in.

He examined you meticulously, tracing his finger along the bridge of your nose and the lengths of your arms,before just standing there for what seemed like hours. Once he was satisfied he placed his hand on your cheek.

Exactly as I expected. You've really outdone yourself, aorta! Do you want to get down now?

He sounded exceptionally cheery despite the circumstances

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta couldn’t say they were pleased with the events that just took place.

…Yes…Certainly…

As they were unchained, they almost collapsed right into Ace. Their legs felt weak after standing there for a while.

….unholy hellfire…i don’t think i can feel my legs.

Taking off the platform boots would be a start…

[gibsoneleventh]

ace grasped His arms around you to make sure you didn't fall over, incredibly satisfied with his work with you.

Would you like me to carry you outside? I think it's safe to say that we can leave now.

He looked down at you and held you close, afraid you would fall from his grasp.

[deepinyouraorta]

Oh…Sure. Just allow me to unlace my boots first…

Aorta knelt down as slowly as she could as to not cause any pain in her legs, and untied the laces on her shoes. She didn’t quite know where to put them, though. Did she keep them on and risk them slipping off? Did she leave them here and get a new pair later? She didn’t really want to carry them…

She just decided to leave them loose on her, they either fell off or they didn’t.

Alright. Let’s depart. There’s an abandoned little town a few miles away, near my partner’s church…We could take a trip there before I make my way back to Alice.

Sure, Ace was…A bit of a red. But it was just the sweetest offer he could’ve given.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace sneered as you stood there in front of him, before taking your hand and lifting you up, throwing you over his shoulder and proceeding through the building until you came to the entrance and exited yet again.

He locked the door behind him before placing his hand on your back to make sure you were secure.

SO! where we going, sweetie? Where do we go from here, eh?

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta shrugged. They brushed some hair from their face, but it fell right back down. I think it’s down that way, through those trees. They pointed towards a forest-y area and glanced at Ace again. It’s a bit of a dark forest…I could’ve sworn it wasn’t that dark the last time I cut through there.

[gibsoneleventh]

oh wow! That IS dark! Shouldn't be a problem though, I see everything, after all!

Ace made his way through the dark forest, still carrying you in his arms, rubbing your arm gently with his thumb.

Im sorry if I scared you earlier, aorta! I really mean no harm, you must understand.

[deepinyouraorta]

Aww, it’s alright…Just a little thrill. I’ll be right. Wow, this forest really was dark. Aorta could barely see the trees that weren’t right in front of him. He poked Ace on the shoulder and smiled politely, though it seemed strained. ..Do you want me to walk on my own? I’m sure I can at this moment…

[gibsoneleventh]

he grabbed your arm in the blink of am eye and squeezed it with the force of what seemed like a ten-tonne truck.

Why do you want to walk on your own? Why can't you just lead me? You're not going to leave me, are you? Aorta, do you even know what would happen if you left me? Do you want to find out?

It was pitch dark, you couldn't even make out ace's face, if it was even there.

what was wrong with him?? Why was he acting like this?

His voice was unnervingly cheerful.

[deepinyouraorta]

No! No no no no no, not at all! Aorta tried to laugh, but it was loud and fake. They couldn’t really make it sound genuine. This obsessive behavior was creeping them out, to put it bluntly. Earlier they would’ve found it maybe cute…But it was just getting out of hand now. I don’t want to tire your arms out, dear…I’ll stay right by, okay? I promise. Though I am curious what would happen…I won’t. Alright? Let me down.

[gibsoneleventh]

he could hear the falsity in your laugh and realised he was likely scaring you again, so decided to tone himself back a little.

he let go of your arm and let go of your torso, not trying to place you down at all, leaving you to your own for you to get off of him.

it's alright.

He sounded much more monotone now.

Where's the church?

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta hopped down and laced up her boots before taking Ace’s hand and continuing the walk through the forest. Should be right this way… Sure enough, after a few minutes of strolling, the pair reached the doors of the church. Aorta knocked, but the doors didn’t open… Oh, Aorta frowned, is it not home..? Hm… She tried to go and walk around the side of the church, but she was pulled back by her arm before she could go anywhere.

[deepinyouraorta]

Oh…No, I don’t think I’d favor that, thank you.

Aorta glanced at her side to see Ace’s tail inching towards her. It was getting…Quite close. She could feel it starting to brush against her. So she shuffled forward a bit, so that she was closer to Ace.

Don’t fret! I’m not going anywhere for now.

@gibsoneleventh

[gibsoneleventh]

oh...such a pity.

His tail finally edged close enough as he wrapped it around your arm, holding you tight.

Oh I know.

His face shifted as he stood up, pulling you up with him. It shifted into something more...normal. his grin just seemed malicious now, not unnatural. His eyes still looked the same, but asides from that his face actually looked...rather attractive. How did he do that?

Having a more welcoming face would make the next part so much easier.

he wrapped his tail around your waist and grabbed your wrist as he walked you upstairs to a small room and two chains hanging from the wall. Reddish brown liquid stained some of the nearby wallpaper and floorboards.

You know, I'm just so fascinated by whatever little critter you are that I'd like to get a closer look at you! Seem okay?

It didn't seem like you had much of a choice either way.

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta tensed up when he saw the chains. He knew exactly where this was going and he did not like it.

Um- n-no, I’d really rather you didn’t-!

Oh, but it was too late. Aorta was forced onto the wall and Ace chained them down before they could run away. The cold metal on their arms, the restricted movement, the way their breathing shallower and their heart rate picked up…It all brought back some very bad memories.

Ace, darling, could you let me go?!

He wouldn’t. They should’ve known that he wouldn’t. And now Aorta was a lab rat in the hands of a mad scientist.

[gibsoneleventh]

he grinned and tilted his head to the side. Taking a step closer towards you. He was so close now you could almost feel his breath down your neck.

I told you that you fascinated me. Now I can really... take everything in.

He examined you meticulously, tracing his finger along the bridge of your nose and the lengths of your arms,before just standing there for what seemed like hours. Once he was satisfied he placed his hand on your cheek.

Exactly as I expected. You've really outdone yourself, aorta! Do you want to get down now?

He sounded exceptionally cheery despite the circumstances

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta couldn’t say they were pleased with the events that just took place.

…Yes…Certainly…

As they were unchained, they almost collapsed right into Ace. Their legs felt weak after standing there for a while.

….unholy hellfire…i don’t think i can feel my legs.

Taking off the platform boots would be a start…

[gibsoneleventh]

ace grasped His arms around you to make sure you didn't fall over, incredibly satisfied with his work with you.

Would you like me to carry you outside? I think it's safe to say that we can leave now.

He looked down at you and held you close, afraid you would fall from his grasp.

[deepinyouraorta]

Oh…Sure. Just allow me to unlace my boots first…

Aorta knelt down as slowly as she could as to not cause any pain in her legs, and untied the laces on her shoes. She didn’t quite know where to put them, though. Did she keep them on and risk them slipping off? Did she leave them here and get a new pair later? She didn’t really want to carry them…

She just decided to leave them loose on her, they either fell off or they didn’t.

Alright. Let’s depart. There’s an abandoned little town a few miles away, near my partner’s church…We could take a trip there before I make my way back to Alice.

Sure, Ace was…A bit of a red. But it was just the sweetest offer he could’ve given.

[gibsoneleventh]

Ace sneered as you stood there in front of him, before taking your hand and lifting you up, throwing you over his shoulder and proceeding through the building until you came to the entrance and exited yet again.

He locked the door behind him before placing his hand on your back to make sure you were secure.

SO! where we going, sweetie? Where do we go from here, eh?

[deepinyouraorta]

Aorta shrugged. They brushed some hair from their face, but it fell right back down. I think it’s down that way, through those trees. They pointed towards a forest-y area and glanced at Ace again. It’s a bit of a dark forest…I could’ve sworn it wasn’t that dark the last time I cut through there.

[gibsoneleventh]

oh wow! That IS dark! Shouldn't be a problem though, I see everything, after all!

Ace made his way through the dark forest, still carrying you in his arms, rubbing your arm gently with his thumb.

Im sorry if I scared you earlier, aorta! I really mean no harm, you must understand.

[deepinyouraorta]

Aww, it’s alright…Just a little thrill. I’ll be right. Wow, this forest really was dark. Aorta could barely see the trees that weren’t right in front of him. He poked Ace on the shoulder and smiled politely, though it seemed strained. ..Do you want me to walk on my own? I’m sure I can at this moment…

[gibsoneleventh]

he grabbed your arm in the blink of am eye and squeezed it with the force of what seemed like a ten-tonne truck.

Why do you want to walk on your own? Why can't you just lead me? You're not going to leave me, are you? Aorta, do you even know what would happen if you left me? Do you want to find out?

It was pitch dark, you couldn't even make out ace's face, if it was even there.

what was wrong with him?? Why was he acting like this?

His voice was unnervingly cheerful.

[deepinyouraorta]

No! No no no no no, not at all! Aorta tried to laugh, but it was loud and fake. They couldn’t really make it sound genuine. This obsessive behavior was creeping them out, to put it bluntly. Earlier they would’ve found it maybe cute…But it was just getting out of hand now. I don’t want to tire your arms out, dear…I’ll stay right by, okay? I promise. Though I am curious what would happen…I won’t. Alright? Let me down.