》...

》 I travel around, selling strange masks with weird effects, five bucks each. They... aren't dangerous, but it's not like I make them.

[peachesnturnips]

A developer just explained why Link cries out whenever he puts on a transformation mask.

[kelssiel]

what the fuck?

[alinkletothepast]

It’s very simple!

[koi-wizzard-passenger]

》Hey, you! Make some room!!

[... a... frantic(??) voice yells to you. It's owner, a young woman with a comically oversized backpack, is... running toward the quaint bus stop you've found yourself resting at, desperate to get out of the pouring rain...] - @mask-sellingpassenger.

[A small figure at the bus stop glares in the direction of the noise, recognizing that it seems to be directed at them. Their strange eyes, piercing from under the brim of an even stranger hat, seemed to convey annoyance at the ruckus- but they turned away, facing forward before the feeling could linger for too long.]

[With a quiet "hmph-" the figure wordlessly scooches sideways to the other side of the bench to make room for the stranger. It took a bit of effort since it didn't seem like their legs could reach the ground.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[She skids to a halt, boots leaving trails in the mud as she joins you under the awning. she throws her backpack off and brings it to her lap, after... shaking it a little more dry. She's... a little drenched.]

》Hahhh, hah...... ............... 》...oh. thanks.

[She should say more. She does not. She's preoccupied by checking her bag, seeing if.. Whatever's in there, is dry.]

[passengerspace]

[You hear... a knock, and then another, on the door of your bus, though... you're floating through space, and there doesn't seem to be anyone on the other side...]

[...The door slides open, and outside is a bare, grassy landscape, with one @mask-sellingpassenger standing just outside. ...Whoops! You may have opened a portal from somewhere, straight to your bus.]

[What do you make of this?]

where do you wanna go, first passenger?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》 Wow, I'm you're first? What'd I win...

[She hops on, seemingly.. failing to notice the surrounding... well, cosmos.]

[Flipping you a coin for the fare, (Woah, she's paying an actual fare?) she continues;]

》 I've got no destination in mind. Would it bother 'ya if I just hopped along for the ride...?

[passengerspace]

nah, that's fine... hey, wanna see NGC 985?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》uh... Sure. What'cha got.

[passengerspace]

NGC 985 is a Galaxy fully colonized by strange creatures called jermas. they attack on sight, so we'll have to bee stealthy.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》...well, are you good at being stealthy?

[passengerspace]

[You hear... a knock, and then another, on the door of your bus, though... you're floating through space, and there doesn't seem to be anyone on the other side...]

[...The door slides open, and outside is a bare, grassy landscape, with one @mask-sellingpassenger standing just outside. ...Whoops! You may have opened a portal from somewhere, straight to your bus.]

[What do you make of this?]

where do you wanna go, first passenger?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》 Wow, I'm you're first? What'd I win...

[She hops on, seemingly.. failing to notice the surrounding... well, cosmos.]

[Flipping you a coin for the fare, (Woah, she's paying an actual fare?) she continues;]

》 I've got no destination in mind. Would it bother 'ya if I just hopped along for the ride...?

[passengerspace]

nah, that's fine... hey, wanna see NGC 985?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》uh... Sure. What'cha got.

[passengerspace]

[You hear... a knock, and then another, on the door of your bus, though... you're floating through space, and there doesn't seem to be anyone on the other side...]

[...The door slides open, and outside is a bare, grassy landscape, with one @mask-sellingpassenger standing just outside. ...Whoops! You may have opened a portal from somewhere, straight to your bus.]

[What do you make of this?]

where do you wanna go, first passenger?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》 Wow, I'm you're first? What'd I win...

[She hops on, seemingly.. failing to notice the surrounding... well, cosmos.]

[Flipping you a coin for the fare, (Woah, she's paying an actual fare?) she continues;]

》 I've got no destination in mind. Would it bother 'ya if I just hopped along for the ride...?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[Masky finds herself within a large... something. There's some.. expanse of concrete, just.. out here, in the wilderness. She's seen these before, but none quite this scale. (what would something like this even be used for...?) She hears some noise in the distance, she's sure it's fine.]

[the-abdis]

<< [The ABDIS "STORMFRONT" glides down slowly to its runway, the gargantuan plane idling its engines and extending massive landing gear. It's 10 kilometers long, and the runway is even longer- but even still, the pilot inside knows that it will use almost every inch. As the wheels touch down (over the horizon from Masky), a shrill screaming sound echoes down the concrete strip.] >>

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[That's.... definitely less fine. Quickly ducking away from the site as soon as she notices the oncoming craft, stuck frozen on the grass as she watches it's slow descent come to a halt across the ocean of naught else.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[Masky finds herself within a large... something. There's some.. expanse of concrete, just.. out here, in the wilderness. She's seen these before, but none quite this scale. (what would something like this even be used for...?) She hears some noise in the distance, she's sure it's fine.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[The bus you're on stops. Odd, there is no stop here. As you look out the window, you can see that a red bus has pulled over next to it, and someone from it has stepped onto the bus. Her flight jacket bears a phoenix wing on its shoulder. After a moment of talking with the driver, she walks over to you.]

Hello there, Masky. Mind if I take a seat? We have some things to discuss.

》 Uh... hi ta' you too.

[With an air of suspicion, she fwips her usual mask onta' her face, before facing you, and continuing,]

》 Sure, I suppose. ...Who, exactly, am I talking to..?

[monarch-squadron]

Call me Blaze. [She sits down next to Masky, and the bus gets going again.]

You're quite talented, y'know that? Some have taken notice, including the Adder's Head themself. They have seen fit to request your assistance in critical matters.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》 Blaze, huh... I beg your pardon, I'm hardly the type folks ask help of. I'm merely a merchant, after all.

》 Not that I'm unwilling entirely, however. I don't know who you or that 'Adder's Head' may be, but if I'm really the one you're after, what kind of critical matters...?

[monarch-squadron]

Believe me, I wasn't entirely sure myself at first. Still, the Viper believes you could be of great assistance. As for the matter of what we are requesting your help in, I'd say we should discuss that somewhere slightly more private. The rumors have more than enough fuel already. [They pull an odd looking object out of their pocket, slim and rectangular. Its surface is a magenta-purple, covered in precise engravings.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... Sure. Whatdd'ya have..?

[monarch-squadron]

Ah, don't worry about it. Frankly, I forgot what Viper called it, yamato breacher or somethin' pretentious like that. [She flips it around, revealing a blade within that swings out, before making two quick incisions in the air. You can see what looks like air warping from heat, before it splits the air itself and a dark void appears, bordered with the same pink-purple as the knife. They hold out a hand, and any conversation in the bus that had continued after the mention of the Adder's Head fell silent.] Shall we?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... A rift, eh... (can't just go around the side of the bus, like any normal person..?)

[With a hesitant nod, she follows her in, however. Can't say this is too out of the ordinary.]

》So. What exactly did you need my help for, of all things? -and don't even think about pulling anythin'.

[monarch-squadron]

To put it quite simply, you are going to assist in a plan to tear down GBI itself, a direct strike at their main fortress: the Colossbus.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... GBI. that's the... less than reputable, 'bus company' around, right..? I'd hardly want to get involved in that bunch. (... but I don't truly have much better to do, do I now.)

》...Tell you what, I'll consider it. What exactly are we talking here, and how would I be of any use to you..?

[monarch-squadron]

...Less than reputable is a slight understatement. Still, I understand your hesitation to involve yourself in affairs regarding them. As for the matter of what we are actually doing here, I don't know a lot on that front. All I know is, this is the big finale.

We're putting it all on the line, but if Viper thinks it's worth it, I trust that decision. For all their faults, they are not one to make rash decisions.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Hm... I understand that, yeah.

》Well, alright. ... If we're going to be working together, how about I show you some of my wares? I sell... well, masks. Sometimes, they have curious effects. Hard ta' tell which ones without firsthand confirmation, but some of them may be able to help in your siege. (-and I don't run em' for very much.)

[monarch-squadron]

Sure! What's in stock?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[She pulls her hefty back over her shoulder, and onto the ground. After scrounging around, she pulls a armfull of assorted masks out to display. One carved like a curious leaf, one a meld of many shards of metal, one a simple masquerade mask embellished by stark white feathers, and... so on.]

》... Anything strike your fancy...?

[monarch-squadron]

[She inspects all of the masks, before picking one out, twirling it between her fingers, the masquerade mask. Large, angelic wings span out from either side, curving inwards.]

This one seems neat, could probably paint it to match my livery. Any 'curious effects' I should know about, or?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Sorry, I don't know. I don't make 'em. Though, often, you can get a vague idea from the looks, take that how you will. Who knows, probably does nothin' at all.

》...so, what'dya say..?

[monarch-squadron]

[She takes a moment to inspect it once more, before replying.]

From the looks, this thing'll just give me wings. Not like I need 'em, considering I'm a pilot, but it does look nice. Sure, what'll it cost?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Gotcha. Well, I run em for five bucks each, so.. if ye will?

[They make the exchange, simple enough. The mask feels... well, not quite unusual.]

[monarch-squadron]

Pleasure doin' business with ya'. That being said, we should probably get back to the matter at hand.

[She pulls a handheld radio out of her pocket, tossing it to Masky.]

Dial into 95.3 and wait, we'll call with instructions on how to reach us when the time comes. For now, just head on back and, if you would be so kind, keep your mouth shut about this whole deal. We don't need more rumors spreading.

[definitelyhumanpassenger]

["ginny" speaks up from behind, where she was just kinda awkward following masky without saying anything. she looks concerned and confused and kind of guilty realizing maybe she wasnt supposed to be following]

wait. was i not supposed to be watching this. uhmhnh uhhhhh sorry... also whats going on

[monarch-squadron]

...Hello there. May I ask your name?

[Despite her seemingly friendly demeanor, Blaze slowly reaches down for the concealed cosmic blade at her hip.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Oh, right, uh... this is.. what was it, Ginny, right...? We're travelling together, for the time being. Is.. there a problem...?

[definitelyhumanpassenger]

[ginny breathes an audible sigh of relief, as though she did not have an answer prepared to the question of her name.]

ahahug gbgh yeah were travelling together. were bestys. [thumbs up] best friends yeah woo also were you saying something about gbi? as in like. good bus incorporation? that one?

[she sounds quite nervous]

[monarch-squadron]

[She sighs, before taking in a deep breath.]

All actions here are strictly confidential, and of no relevance to those not involved. Rest assured, you would bear no interest in the proceedings here, it is a simple business deal and nothing more. Return to where you were at once, and do not attempt further intrusion on confidential operations.

You should go with her, Masky. Our deal is done, and I must be heading away as well. May we meet again soon.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》'gotcha. I'll be waiting.

》- Well, Ginny, lets go?

[definitelyhumanpassenger]

aihgh ok! sorry. um. see you later. haha. ha.

[ginny and masky head back through the rift. the moment it closes, ginny turns towards masky]

ok sorry i know this isnt my business. but like. are you. going TO gbi? like youre going towards it? to where they are? like gbi as in good bus inc?

[she sounds very, incredibly concerned]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Right now...? Nope. I've merely been recruited for a job involving 'em. Until I hear back from that party, we're simply cruising wherever the wind, or... bus, takes us.

[Masky walks back down the aisle through the bus. This one's relatively tame, ain't that new. In some empty row, she takes a seat, her face still hidden behind her strange mask.]

》But, well, either way. That company, you know somethin' about it, dontcha, kid.

[definitelyhumanpassenger]

uhh. i mean i guess i know a bit...

[ginny turns so that her back is facing directly away from masky, and she holds her legs unusually and seemingly uncomfortably close together, to close any gap between them. she casts a few cautious looks behind her, trying to make it not obvious (she does a bad job of this) and starts to slowly sidle towards the front of the bus, not taking a seat.]

umm. what kind of involvement are you talking about? are you... did they... um... [she begins to panic, though she tries her best to hide it] is... is there. someone. in particular youre... looking- wanting to... uh... talk to? um. not that i like. uh. know anything about. anyone. haha. but like. uhhh. i um.... [she trails off]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》 I see what's going on here. Don't... get ahead of yourself.

Thing is, I don't quite know much about those guys, but what I do know, is that they're after people like me. -and, I'll wager, people like you.

》I've, actually, been recruited in a job against those guys, some bunch is trying to take 'em down, and.. for some reason, wanted me. Though it doesn't quite involve you, I~f you'd be willing, any knowledge could prove useful.

[definitelyhumanpassenger]

so... youre... youre not working for them? oh.. sorry [she loosens up a bit] um. i uhh. i mean i guess there is a bit that i do know but...

[she sits down and just closes her eyes a bit, trying to collect herself again.]

ssorry. um. i. i dont really know how much is safe to share. i. i dont know. im just lost right now... [she pauses, as if about to say something, but decides against it.] is... there anything in particular you want? i might know... something. maybe.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... I dunno, kid... maybe a quick rundown..? that would be fine by me, simply knowing what we're up against.

[》... and, are you, uh... alright?]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[The bus you're on stops. Odd, there is no stop here. As you look out the window, you can see that a red bus has pulled over next to it, and someone from it has stepped onto the bus. Her flight jacket bears a phoenix wing on its shoulder. After a moment of talking with the driver, she walks over to you.]

Hello there, Masky. Mind if I take a seat? We have some things to discuss.

》 Uh... hi ta' you too.

[With an air of suspicion, she fwips her usual mask onta' her face, before facing you, and continuing,]

》 Sure, I suppose. ...Who, exactly, am I talking to..?

[monarch-squadron]

Call me Blaze. [She sits down next to Masky, and the bus gets going again.]

You're quite talented, y'know that? Some have taken notice, including the Adder's Head themself. They have seen fit to request your assistance in critical matters.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》 Blaze, huh... I beg your pardon, I'm hardly the type folks ask help of. I'm merely a merchant, after all.

》 Not that I'm unwilling entirely, however. I don't know who you or that 'Adder's Head' may be, but if I'm really the one you're after, what kind of critical matters...?

[monarch-squadron]

Believe me, I wasn't entirely sure myself at first. Still, the Viper believes you could be of great assistance. As for the matter of what we are requesting your help in, I'd say we should discuss that somewhere slightly more private. The rumors have more than enough fuel already. [They pull an odd looking object out of their pocket, slim and rectangular. Its surface is a magenta-purple, covered in precise engravings.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... Sure. Whatdd'ya have..?

[monarch-squadron]

Ah, don't worry about it. Frankly, I forgot what Viper called it, yamato breacher or somethin' pretentious like that. [She flips it around, revealing a blade within that swings out, before making two quick incisions in the air. You can see what looks like air warping from heat, before it splits the air itself and a dark void appears, bordered with the same pink-purple as the knife. They hold out a hand, and any conversation in the bus that had continued after the mention of the Adder's Head fell silent.] Shall we?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... A rift, eh... (can't just go around the side of the bus, like any normal person..?)

[With a hesitant nod, she follows her in, however. Can't say this is too out of the ordinary.]

》So. What exactly did you need my help for, of all things? -and don't even think about pulling anythin'.

[monarch-squadron]

To put it quite simply, you are going to assist in a plan to tear down GBI itself, a direct strike at their main fortress: the Colossbus.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... GBI. that's the... less than reputable, 'bus company' around, right..? I'd hardly want to get involved in that bunch. (... but I don't truly have much better to do, do I now.)

》...Tell you what, I'll consider it. What exactly are we talking here, and how would I be of any use to you..?

[monarch-squadron]

...Less than reputable is a slight understatement. Still, I understand your hesitation to involve yourself in affairs regarding them. As for the matter of what we are actually doing here, I don't know a lot on that front. All I know is, this is the big finale.

We're putting it all on the line, but if Viper thinks it's worth it, I trust that decision. For all their faults, they are not one to make rash decisions.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Hm... I understand that, yeah.

》Well, alright. ... If we're going to be working together, how about I show you some of my wares? I sell... well, masks. Sometimes, they have curious effects. Hard ta' tell which ones without firsthand confirmation, but some of them may be able to help in your siege. (-and I don't run em' for very much.)

[monarch-squadron]

Sure! What's in stock?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[She pulls her hefty back over her shoulder, and onto the ground. After scrounging around, she pulls a armfull of assorted masks out to display. One carved like a curious leaf, one a meld of many shards of metal, one a simple masquerade mask embellished by stark white feathers, and... so on.]

》... Anything strike your fancy...?

[monarch-squadron]

[She inspects all of the masks, before picking one out, twirling it between her fingers, the masquerade mask. Large, angelic wings span out from either side, curving inwards.]

This one seems neat, could probably paint it to match my livery. Any 'curious effects' I should know about, or?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Sorry, I don't know. I don't make 'em. Though, often, you can get a vague idea from the looks, take that how you will. Who knows, probably does nothin' at all.

》...so, what'dya say..?

[monarch-squadron]

[She takes a moment to inspect it once more, before replying.]

From the looks, this thing'll just give me wings. Not like I need 'em, considering I'm a pilot, but it does look nice. Sure, what'll it cost?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Gotcha. Well, I run em for five bucks each, so.. if ye will?

[They make the exchange, simple enough. The mask feels... well, not quite unusual.]

[monarch-squadron]

Pleasure doin' business with ya'. That being said, we should probably get back to the matter at hand.

[She pulls a handheld radio out of her pocket, tossing it to Masky.]

Dial into 95.3 and wait, we'll call with instructions on how to reach us when the time comes. For now, just head on back and, if you would be so kind, keep your mouth shut about this whole deal. We don't need more rumors spreading.

[definitelyhumanpassenger]

["ginny" speaks up from behind, where she was just kinda awkward following masky without saying anything. she looks concerned and confused and kind of guilty realizing maybe she wasnt supposed to be following]

wait. was i not supposed to be watching this. uhmhnh uhhhhh sorry... also whats going on

[monarch-squadron]

...Hello there. May I ask your name?

[Despite her seemingly friendly demeanor, Blaze slowly reaches down for the concealed cosmic blade at her hip.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Oh, right, uh... this is.. what was it, Ginny, right...? We're travelling together, for the time being. Is.. there a problem...?

[definitelyhumanpassenger]

[ginny breathes an audible sigh of relief, as though she did not have an answer prepared to the question of her name.]

ahahug gbgh yeah were travelling together. were bestys. [thumbs up] best friends yeah woo also were you saying something about gbi? as in like. good bus incorporation? that one?

[she sounds quite nervous]

[monarch-squadron]

[She sighs, before taking in a deep breath.]

All actions here are strictly confidential, and of no relevance to those not involved. Rest assured, you would bear no interest in the proceedings here, it is a simple business deal and nothing more. Return to where you were at once, and do not attempt further intrusion on confidential operations.

You should go with her, Masky. Our deal is done, and I must be heading away as well. May we meet again soon.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》'gotcha. I'll be waiting.

》- Well, Ginny, lets go?

[definitelyhumanpassenger]

aihgh ok! sorry. um. see you later. haha. ha.

[ginny and masky head back through the rift. the moment it closes, ginny turns towards masky]

ok sorry i know this isnt my business. but like. are you. going TO gbi? like youre going towards it? to where they are? like gbi as in good bus inc?

[she sounds very, incredibly concerned]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Right now...? Nope. I've merely been recruited for a job involving 'em. Until I hear back from that party, we're simply cruising wherever the wind, or... bus, takes us.

[Masky walks back down the aisle through the bus. This one's relatively tame, ain't that new. In some empty row, she takes a seat, her face still hidden behind her strange mask.]

》But, well, either way. That company, you know somethin' about it, dontcha, kid.

[definitelyhumanpassenger]

uhh. i mean i guess i know a bit...

[ginny turns so that her back is facing directly away from masky, and she holds her legs unusually and seemingly uncomfortably close together, to close any gap between them. she casts a few cautious looks behind her, trying to make it not obvious (she does a bad job of this) and starts to slowly sidle towards the front of the bus, not taking a seat.]

umm. what kind of involvement are you talking about? are you... did they... um... [she begins to panic, though she tries her best to hide it] is... is there. someone. in particular youre... looking- wanting to... uh... talk to? um. not that i like. uh. know anything about. anyone. haha. but like. uhhh. i um.... [she trails off]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》 I see what's going on here. Don't... get ahead of yourself.

Thing is, I don't quite know much about those guys, but what I do know, is that they're after people like me. -and, I'll wager, people like you.

》I've, actually, been recruited in a job against those guys, some bunch is trying to take 'em down, and.. for some reason, wanted me. Though it doesn't quite involve you, I~f you'd be willing, any knowledge could prove useful.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[The bus you're on stops. Odd, there is no stop here. As you look out the window, you can see that a red bus has pulled over next to it, and someone from it has stepped onto the bus. Her flight jacket bears a phoenix wing on its shoulder. After a moment of talking with the driver, she walks over to you.]

Hello there, Masky. Mind if I take a seat? We have some things to discuss.

》 Uh... hi ta' you too.

[With an air of suspicion, she fwips her usual mask onta' her face, before facing you, and continuing,]

》 Sure, I suppose. ...Who, exactly, am I talking to..?

[monarch-squadron]

Call me Blaze. [She sits down next to Masky, and the bus gets going again.]

You're quite talented, y'know that? Some have taken notice, including the Adder's Head themself. They have seen fit to request your assistance in critical matters.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》 Blaze, huh... I beg your pardon, I'm hardly the type folks ask help of. I'm merely a merchant, after all.

》 Not that I'm unwilling entirely, however. I don't know who you or that 'Adder's Head' may be, but if I'm really the one you're after, what kind of critical matters...?

[monarch-squadron]

Believe me, I wasn't entirely sure myself at first. Still, the Viper believes you could be of great assistance. As for the matter of what we are requesting your help in, I'd say we should discuss that somewhere slightly more private. The rumors have more than enough fuel already. [They pull an odd looking object out of their pocket, slim and rectangular. Its surface is a magenta-purple, covered in precise engravings.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... Sure. Whatdd'ya have..?

[monarch-squadron]

Ah, don't worry about it. Frankly, I forgot what Viper called it, yamato breacher or somethin' pretentious like that. [She flips it around, revealing a blade within that swings out, before making two quick incisions in the air. You can see what looks like air warping from heat, before it splits the air itself and a dark void appears, bordered with the same pink-purple as the knife. They hold out a hand, and any conversation in the bus that had continued after the mention of the Adder's Head fell silent.] Shall we?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... A rift, eh... (can't just go around the side of the bus, like any normal person..?)

[With a hesitant nod, she follows her in, however. Can't say this is too out of the ordinary.]

》So. What exactly did you need my help for, of all things? -and don't even think about pulling anythin'.

[monarch-squadron]

To put it quite simply, you are going to assist in a plan to tear down GBI itself, a direct strike at their main fortress: the Colossbus.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... GBI. that's the... less than reputable, 'bus company' around, right..? I'd hardly want to get involved in that bunch. (... but I don't truly have much better to do, do I now.)

》...Tell you what, I'll consider it. What exactly are we talking here, and how would I be of any use to you..?

[monarch-squadron]

...Less than reputable is a slight understatement. Still, I understand your hesitation to involve yourself in affairs regarding them. As for the matter of what we are actually doing here, I don't know a lot on that front. All I know is, this is the big finale.

We're putting it all on the line, but if Viper thinks it's worth it, I trust that decision. For all their faults, they are not one to make rash decisions.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Hm... I understand that, yeah.

》Well, alright. ... If we're going to be working together, how about I show you some of my wares? I sell... well, masks. Sometimes, they have curious effects. Hard ta' tell which ones without firsthand confirmation, but some of them may be able to help in your siege. (-and I don't run em' for very much.)

[monarch-squadron]

Sure! What's in stock?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[She pulls her hefty back over her shoulder, and onto the ground. After scrounging around, she pulls a armfull of assorted masks out to display. One carved like a curious leaf, one a meld of many shards of metal, one a simple masquerade mask embellished by stark white feathers, and... so on.]

》... Anything strike your fancy...?

[monarch-squadron]

[She inspects all of the masks, before picking one out, twirling it between her fingers, the masquerade mask. Large, angelic wings span out from either side, curving inwards.]

This one seems neat, could probably paint it to match my livery. Any 'curious effects' I should know about, or?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Sorry, I don't know. I don't make 'em. Though, often, you can get a vague idea from the looks, take that how you will. Who knows, probably does nothin' at all.

》...so, what'dya say..?

[monarch-squadron]

[She takes a moment to inspect it once more, before replying.]

From the looks, this thing'll just give me wings. Not like I need 'em, considering I'm a pilot, but it does look nice. Sure, what'll it cost?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Gotcha. Well, I run em for five bucks each, so.. if ye will?

[They make the exchange, simple enough. The mask feels... well, not quite unusual.]

[monarch-squadron]

Pleasure doin' business with ya'. That being said, we should probably get back to the matter at hand.

[She pulls a handheld radio out of her pocket, tossing it to Masky.]

Dial into 95.3 and wait, we'll call with instructions on how to reach us when the time comes. For now, just head on back and, if you would be so kind, keep your mouth shut about this whole deal. We don't need more rumors spreading.

[definitelyhumanpassenger]

["ginny" speaks up from behind, where she was just kinda awkward following masky without saying anything. she looks concerned and confused and kind of guilty realizing maybe she wasnt supposed to be following]

wait. was i not supposed to be watching this. uhmhnh uhhhhh sorry... also whats going on

[monarch-squadron]

...Hello there. May I ask your name?

[Despite her seemingly friendly demeanor, Blaze slowly reaches down for the concealed cosmic blade at her hip.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Oh, right, uh... this is.. what was it, Ginny, right...? We're travelling together, for the time being. Is.. there a problem...?

[definitelyhumanpassenger]

[ginny breathes an audible sigh of relief, as though she did not have an answer prepared to the question of her name.]

ahahug gbgh yeah were travelling together. were bestys. [thumbs up] best friends yeah woo also were you saying something about gbi? as in like. good bus incorporation? that one?

[she sounds quite nervous]

[monarch-squadron]

[She sighs, before taking in a deep breath.]

All actions here are strictly confidential, and of no relevance to those not involved. Rest assured, you would bear no interest in the proceedings here, it is a simple business deal and nothing more. Return to where you were at once, and do not attempt further intrusion on confidential operations.

You should go with her, Masky. Our deal is done, and I must be heading away as well. May we meet again soon.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》'gotcha. I'll be waiting.

》- Well, Ginny, lets go?

[definitelyhumanpassenger]

aihgh ok! sorry. um. see you later. haha. ha.

[ginny and masky head back through the rift. the moment it closes, ginny turns towards masky]

ok sorry i know this isnt my business. but like. are you. going TO gbi? like youre going towards it? to where they are? like gbi as in good bus inc?

[she sounds very, incredibly concerned]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Right now...? Nope. I've merely been recruited for a job involving 'em. Until I hear back from that party, we're simply cruising wherever the wind, or... bus, takes us.

[Masky walks back down the aisle through the bus. This one's relatively tame, ain't that new. In some empty row, she takes a seat, her face still hidden behind her strange mask.]

》But, well, either way. That company, you know somethin' about it, dontcha, kid.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[The bus you're on stops. Odd, there is no stop here. As you look out the window, you can see that a red bus has pulled over next to it, and someone from it has stepped onto the bus. Her flight jacket bears a phoenix wing on its shoulder. After a moment of talking with the driver, she walks over to you.]

Hello there, Masky. Mind if I take a seat? We have some things to discuss.

》 Uh... hi ta' you too.

[With an air of suspicion, she fwips her usual mask onta' her face, before facing you, and continuing,]

》 Sure, I suppose. ...Who, exactly, am I talking to..?

[monarch-squadron]

Call me Blaze. [She sits down next to Masky, and the bus gets going again.]

You're quite talented, y'know that? Some have taken notice, including the Adder's Head themself. They have seen fit to request your assistance in critical matters.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》 Blaze, huh... I beg your pardon, I'm hardly the type folks ask help of. I'm merely a merchant, after all.

》 Not that I'm unwilling entirely, however. I don't know who you or that 'Adder's Head' may be, but if I'm really the one you're after, what kind of critical matters...?

[monarch-squadron]

Believe me, I wasn't entirely sure myself at first. Still, the Viper believes you could be of great assistance. As for the matter of what we are requesting your help in, I'd say we should discuss that somewhere slightly more private. The rumors have more than enough fuel already. [They pull an odd looking object out of their pocket, slim and rectangular. Its surface is a magenta-purple, covered in precise engravings.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... Sure. Whatdd'ya have..?

[monarch-squadron]

Ah, don't worry about it. Frankly, I forgot what Viper called it, yamato breacher or somethin' pretentious like that. [She flips it around, revealing a blade within that swings out, before making two quick incisions in the air. You can see what looks like air warping from heat, before it splits the air itself and a dark void appears, bordered with the same pink-purple as the knife. They hold out a hand, and any conversation in the bus that had continued after the mention of the Adder's Head fell silent.] Shall we?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... A rift, eh... (can't just go around the side of the bus, like any normal person..?)

[With a hesitant nod, she follows her in, however. Can't say this is too out of the ordinary.]

》So. What exactly did you need my help for, of all things? -and don't even think about pulling anythin'.

[monarch-squadron]

To put it quite simply, you are going to assist in a plan to tear down GBI itself, a direct strike at their main fortress: the Colossbus.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... GBI. that's the... less than reputable, 'bus company' around, right..? I'd hardly want to get involved in that bunch. (... but I don't truly have much better to do, do I now.)

》...Tell you what, I'll consider it. What exactly are we talking here, and how would I be of any use to you..?

[monarch-squadron]

...Less than reputable is a slight understatement. Still, I understand your hesitation to involve yourself in affairs regarding them. As for the matter of what we are actually doing here, I don't know a lot on that front. All I know is, this is the big finale.

We're putting it all on the line, but if Viper thinks it's worth it, I trust that decision. For all their faults, they are not one to make rash decisions.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Hm... I understand that, yeah.

》Well, alright. ... If we're going to be working together, how about I show you some of my wares? I sell... well, masks. Sometimes, they have curious effects. Hard ta' tell which ones without firsthand confirmation, but some of them may be able to help in your siege. (-and I don't run em' for very much.)

[monarch-squadron]

Sure! What's in stock?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[She pulls her hefty back over her shoulder, and onto the ground. After scrounging around, she pulls a armfull of assorted masks out to display. One carved like a curious leaf, one a meld of many shards of metal, one a simple masquerade mask embellished by stark white feathers, and... so on.]

》... Anything strike your fancy...?

[monarch-squadron]

[She inspects all of the masks, before picking one out, twirling it between her fingers, the masquerade mask. Large, angelic wings span out from either side, curving inwards.]

This one seems neat, could probably paint it to match my livery. Any 'curious effects' I should know about, or?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Sorry, I don't know. I don't make 'em. Though, often, you can get a vague idea from the looks, take that how you will. Who knows, probably does nothin' at all.

》...so, what'dya say..?

[monarch-squadron]

[She takes a moment to inspect it once more, before replying.]

From the looks, this thing'll just give me wings. Not like I need 'em, considering I'm a pilot, but it does look nice. Sure, what'll it cost?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Gotcha. Well, I run em for five bucks each, so.. if ye will?

[They make the exchange, simple enough. The mask feels... well, not quite unusual.]

[monarch-squadron]

Pleasure doin' business with ya'. That being said, we should probably get back to the matter at hand.

[She pulls a handheld radio out of her pocket, tossing it to Masky.]

Dial into 95.3 and wait, we'll call with instructions on how to reach us when the time comes. For now, just head on back and, if you would be so kind, keep your mouth shut about this whole deal. We don't need more rumors spreading.

[definitelyhumanpassenger]

["ginny" speaks up from behind, where she was just kinda awkward following masky without saying anything. she looks concerned and confused and kind of guilty realizing maybe she wasnt supposed to be following]

wait. was i not supposed to be watching this. uhmhnh uhhhhh sorry... also whats going on

[monarch-squadron]

...Hello there. May I ask your name?

[Despite her seemingly friendly demeanor, Blaze slowly reaches down for the concealed cosmic blade at her hip.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Oh, right, uh... this is.. what was it, Ginny, right...? We're travelling together, for the time being. Is.. there a problem...?

[definitelyhumanpassenger]

[ginny breathes an audible sigh of relief, as though she did not have an answer prepared to the question of her name.]

ahahug gbgh yeah were travelling together. were bestys. [thumbs up] best friends yeah woo also were you saying something about gbi? as in like. good bus incorporation? that one?

[she sounds quite nervous]

[monarch-squadron]

[She sighs, before taking in a deep breath.]

All actions here are strictly confidential, and of no relevance to those not involved. Rest assured, you would bear no interest in the proceedings here, it is a simple business deal and nothing more. Return to where you were at once, and do not attempt further intrusion on confidential operations.

You should go with her, Masky. Our deal is done, and I must be heading away as well. May we meet again soon.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》'gotcha. I'll be waiting.

》- Well, Ginny, lets go?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[The bus you're on stops. Odd, there is no stop here. As you look out the window, you can see that a red bus has pulled over next to it, and someone from it has stepped onto the bus. Her flight jacket bears a phoenix wing on its shoulder. After a moment of talking with the driver, she walks over to you.]

Hello there, Masky. Mind if I take a seat? We have some things to discuss.

》 Uh... hi ta' you too.

[With an air of suspicion, she fwips her usual mask onta' her face, before facing you, and continuing,]

》 Sure, I suppose. ...Who, exactly, am I talking to..?

[monarch-squadron]

Call me Blaze. [She sits down next to Masky, and the bus gets going again.]

You're quite talented, y'know that? Some have taken notice, including the Adder's Head themself. They have seen fit to request your assistance in critical matters.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》 Blaze, huh... I beg your pardon, I'm hardly the type folks ask help of. I'm merely a merchant, after all.

》 Not that I'm unwilling entirely, however. I don't know who you or that 'Adder's Head' may be, but if I'm really the one you're after, what kind of critical matters...?

[monarch-squadron]

Believe me, I wasn't entirely sure myself at first. Still, the Viper believes you could be of great assistance. As for the matter of what we are requesting your help in, I'd say we should discuss that somewhere slightly more private. The rumors have more than enough fuel already. [They pull an odd looking object out of their pocket, slim and rectangular. Its surface is a magenta-purple, covered in precise engravings.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... Sure. Whatdd'ya have..?

[monarch-squadron]

Ah, don't worry about it. Frankly, I forgot what Viper called it, yamato breacher or somethin' pretentious like that. [She flips it around, revealing a blade within that swings out, before making two quick incisions in the air. You can see what looks like air warping from heat, before it splits the air itself and a dark void appears, bordered with the same pink-purple as the knife. They hold out a hand, and any conversation in the bus that had continued after the mention of the Adder's Head fell silent.] Shall we?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... A rift, eh... (can't just go around the side of the bus, like any normal person..?)

[With a hesitant nod, she follows her in, however. Can't say this is too out of the ordinary.]

》So. What exactly did you need my help for, of all things? -and don't even think about pulling anythin'.

[monarch-squadron]

To put it quite simply, you are going to assist in a plan to tear down GBI itself, a direct strike at their main fortress: the Colossbus.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... GBI. that's the... less than reputable, 'bus company' around, right..? I'd hardly want to get involved in that bunch. (... but I don't truly have much better to do, do I now.)

》...Tell you what, I'll consider it. What exactly are we talking here, and how would I be of any use to you..?

[monarch-squadron]

...Less than reputable is a slight understatement. Still, I understand your hesitation to involve yourself in affairs regarding them. As for the matter of what we are actually doing here, I don't know a lot on that front. All I know is, this is the big finale.

We're putting it all on the line, but if Viper thinks it's worth it, I trust that decision. For all their faults, they are not one to make rash decisions.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Hm... I understand that, yeah.

》Well, alright. ... If we're going to be working together, how about I show you some of my wares? I sell... well, masks. Sometimes, they have curious effects. Hard ta' tell which ones without firsthand confirmation, but some of them may be able to help in your siege. (-and I don't run em' for very much.)

[monarch-squadron]

Sure! What's in stock?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[She pulls her hefty back over her shoulder, and onto the ground. After scrounging around, she pulls a armfull of assorted masks out to display. One carved like a curious leaf, one a meld of many shards of metal, one a simple masquerade mask embellished by stark white feathers, and... so on.]

》... Anything strike your fancy...?

[monarch-squadron]

[She inspects all of the masks, before picking one out, twirling it between her fingers, the masquerade mask. Large, angelic wings span out from either side, curving inwards.]

This one seems neat, could probably paint it to match my livery. Any 'curious effects' I should know about, or?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Sorry, I don't know. I don't make 'em. Though, often, you can get a vague idea from the looks, take that how you will. Who knows, probably does nothin' at all.

》...so, what'dya say..?

[monarch-squadron]

[She takes a moment to inspect it once more, before replying.]

From the looks, this thing'll just give me wings. Not like I need 'em, considering I'm a pilot, but it does look nice. Sure, what'll it cost?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Gotcha. Well, I run em for five bucks each, so.. if ye will?

[They make the exchange, simple enough. The mask feels... well, not quite unusual.]

[monarch-squadron]

Pleasure doin' business with ya'. That being said, we should probably get back to the matter at hand.

[She pulls a handheld radio out of her pocket, tossing it to Masky.]

Dial into 95.3 and wait, we'll call with instructions on how to reach us when the time comes. For now, just head on back and, if you would be so kind, keep your mouth shut about this whole deal. We don't need more rumors spreading.

[definitelyhumanpassenger]

["ginny" speaks up from behind, where she was just kinda awkward following masky without saying anything. she looks concerned and confused and kind of guilty realizing maybe she wasnt supposed to be following]

wait. was i not supposed to be watching this. uhmhnh uhhhhh sorry... also whats going on

[monarch-squadron]

...Hello there. May I ask your name?

[Despite her seemingly friendly demeanor, Blaze slowly reaches down for the concealed cosmic blade at her hip.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Oh, right, uh... this is.. what was it, Ginny, right...? We're travelling together, for the time being. Is.. there a problem...?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[The bus you're on stops. Odd, there is no stop here. As you look out the window, you can see that a red bus has pulled over next to it, and someone from it has stepped onto the bus. Her flight jacket bears a phoenix wing on its shoulder. After a moment of talking with the driver, she walks over to you.]

Hello there, Masky. Mind if I take a seat? We have some things to discuss.

》 Uh... hi ta' you too.

[With an air of suspicion, she fwips her usual mask onta' her face, before facing you, and continuing,]

》 Sure, I suppose. ...Who, exactly, am I talking to..?

[monarch-squadron]

Call me Blaze. [She sits down next to Masky, and the bus gets going again.]

You're quite talented, y'know that? Some have taken notice, including the Adder's Head themself. They have seen fit to request your assistance in critical matters.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》 Blaze, huh... I beg your pardon, I'm hardly the type folks ask help of. I'm merely a merchant, after all.

》 Not that I'm unwilling entirely, however. I don't know who you or that 'Adder's Head' may be, but if I'm really the one you're after, what kind of critical matters...?

[monarch-squadron]

Believe me, I wasn't entirely sure myself at first. Still, the Viper believes you could be of great assistance. As for the matter of what we are requesting your help in, I'd say we should discuss that somewhere slightly more private. The rumors have more than enough fuel already. [They pull an odd looking object out of their pocket, slim and rectangular. Its surface is a magenta-purple, covered in precise engravings.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... Sure. Whatdd'ya have..?

[monarch-squadron]

Ah, don't worry about it. Frankly, I forgot what Viper called it, yamato breacher or somethin' pretentious like that. [She flips it around, revealing a blade within that swings out, before making two quick incisions in the air. You can see what looks like air warping from heat, before it splits the air itself and a dark void appears, bordered with the same pink-purple as the knife. They hold out a hand, and any conversation in the bus that had continued after the mention of the Adder's Head fell silent.] Shall we?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... A rift, eh... (can't just go around the side of the bus, like any normal person..?)

[With a hesitant nod, she follows her in, however. Can't say this is too out of the ordinary.]

》So. What exactly did you need my help for, of all things? -and don't even think about pulling anythin'.

[monarch-squadron]

To put it quite simply, you are going to assist in a plan to tear down GBI itself, a direct strike at their main fortress: the Colossbus.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... GBI. that's the... less than reputable, 'bus company' around, right..? I'd hardly want to get involved in that bunch. (... but I don't truly have much better to do, do I now.)

》...Tell you what, I'll consider it. What exactly are we talking here, and how would I be of any use to you..?

[monarch-squadron]

...Less than reputable is a slight understatement. Still, I understand your hesitation to involve yourself in affairs regarding them. As for the matter of what we are actually doing here, I don't know a lot on that front. All I know is, this is the big finale.

We're putting it all on the line, but if Viper thinks it's worth it, I trust that decision. For all their faults, they are not one to make rash decisions.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Hm... I understand that, yeah.

》Well, alright. ... If we're going to be working together, how about I show you some of my wares? I sell... well, masks. Sometimes, they have curious effects. Hard ta' tell which ones without firsthand confirmation, but some of them may be able to help in your siege. (-and I don't run em' for very much.)

[monarch-squadron]

Sure! What's in stock?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[She pulls her hefty back over her shoulder, and onto the ground. After scrounging around, she pulls a armfull of assorted masks out to display. One carved like a curious leaf, one a meld of many shards of metal, one a simple masquerade mask embellished by stark white feathers, and... so on.]

》... Anything strike your fancy...?

[monarch-squadron]

[She inspects all of the masks, before picking one out, twirling it between her fingers, the masquerade mask. Large, angelic wings span out from either side, curving inwards.]

This one seems neat, could probably paint it to match my livery. Any 'curious effects' I should know about, or?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Sorry, I don't know. I don't make 'em. Though, often, you can get a vague idea from the looks, take that how you will. Who knows, probably does nothin' at all.

》...so, what'dya say..?

[monarch-squadron]

[She takes a moment to inspect it once more, before replying.]

From the looks, this thing'll just give me wings. Not like I need 'em, considering I'm a pilot, but it does look nice. Sure, what'll it cost?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Gotcha. Well, I run em for five bucks each, so.. if ye will?

[They make the exchange, simple enough. The mask feels... well, not quite unusual.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[The bus you're on stops. Odd, there is no stop here. As you look out the window, you can see that a red bus has pulled over next to it, and someone from it has stepped onto the bus. Her flight jacket bears a phoenix wing on its shoulder. After a moment of talking with the driver, she walks over to you.]

Hello there, Masky. Mind if I take a seat? We have some things to discuss.

》 Uh... hi ta' you too.

[With an air of suspicion, she fwips her usual mask onta' her face, before facing you, and continuing,]

》 Sure, I suppose. ...Who, exactly, am I talking to..?

[monarch-squadron]

Call me Blaze. [She sits down next to Masky, and the bus gets going again.]

You're quite talented, y'know that? Some have taken notice, including the Adder's Head themself. They have seen fit to request your assistance in critical matters.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》 Blaze, huh... I beg your pardon, I'm hardly the type folks ask help of. I'm merely a merchant, after all.

》 Not that I'm unwilling entirely, however. I don't know who you or that 'Adder's Head' may be, but if I'm really the one you're after, what kind of critical matters...?

[monarch-squadron]

Believe me, I wasn't entirely sure myself at first. Still, the Viper believes you could be of great assistance. As for the matter of what we are requesting your help in, I'd say we should discuss that somewhere slightly more private. The rumors have more than enough fuel already. [They pull an odd looking object out of their pocket, slim and rectangular. Its surface is a magenta-purple, covered in precise engravings.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... Sure. Whatdd'ya have..?

[monarch-squadron]

Ah, don't worry about it. Frankly, I forgot what Viper called it, yamato breacher or somethin' pretentious like that. [She flips it around, revealing a blade within that swings out, before making two quick incisions in the air. You can see what looks like air warping from heat, before it splits the air itself and a dark void appears, bordered with the same pink-purple as the knife. They hold out a hand, and any conversation in the bus that had continued after the mention of the Adder's Head fell silent.] Shall we?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... A rift, eh... (can't just go around the side of the bus, like any normal person..?)

[With a hesitant nod, she follows her in, however. Can't say this is too out of the ordinary.]

》So. What exactly did you need my help for, of all things? -and don't even think about pulling anythin'.

[monarch-squadron]

To put it quite simply, you are going to assist in a plan to tear down GBI itself, a direct strike at their main fortress: the Colossbus.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... GBI. that's the... less than reputable, 'bus company' around, right..? I'd hardly want to get involved in that bunch. (... but I don't truly have much better to do, do I now.)

》...Tell you what, I'll consider it. What exactly are we talking here, and how would I be of any use to you..?

[monarch-squadron]

...Less than reputable is a slight understatement. Still, I understand your hesitation to involve yourself in affairs regarding them. As for the matter of what we are actually doing here, I don't know a lot on that front. All I know is, this is the big finale.

We're putting it all on the line, but if Viper thinks it's worth it, I trust that decision. For all their faults, they are not one to make rash decisions.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Hm... I understand that, yeah.

》Well, alright. ... If we're going to be working together, how about I show you some of my wares? I sell... well, masks. Sometimes, they have curious effects. Hard ta' tell which ones without firsthand confirmation, but some of them may be able to help in your siege. (-and I don't run em' for very much.)

[monarch-squadron]

Sure! What's in stock?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[She pulls her hefty back over her shoulder, and onto the ground. After scrounging around, she pulls a armfull of assorted masks out to display. One carved like a curious leaf, one a meld of many shards of metal, one a simple masquerade mask embellished by stark white feathers, and... so on.]

》... Anything strike your fancy...?

[monarch-squadron]

[She inspects all of the masks, before picking one out, twirling it between her fingers, the masquerade mask. Large, angelic wings span out from either side, curving inwards.]

This one seems neat, could probably paint it to match my livery. Any 'curious effects' I should know about, or?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Sorry, I don't know. I don't make 'em. Though, often, you can get a vague idea from the looks, take that how you will. Who knows, probably does nothin' at all.

》...so, what'dya say..?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[The bus you're on stops. Odd, there is no stop here. As you look out the window, you can see that a red bus has pulled over next to it, and someone from it has stepped onto the bus. Her flight jacket bears a phoenix wing on its shoulder. After a moment of talking with the driver, she walks over to you.]

Hello there, Masky. Mind if I take a seat? We have some things to discuss.

》 Uh... hi ta' you too.

[With an air of suspicion, she fwips her usual mask onta' her face, before facing you, and continuing,]

》 Sure, I suppose. ...Who, exactly, am I talking to..?

[monarch-squadron]

Call me Blaze. [She sits down next to Masky, and the bus gets going again.]

You're quite talented, y'know that? Some have taken notice, including the Adder's Head themself. They have seen fit to request your assistance in critical matters.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》 Blaze, huh... I beg your pardon, I'm hardly the type folks ask help of. I'm merely a merchant, after all.

》 Not that I'm unwilling entirely, however. I don't know who you or that 'Adder's Head' may be, but if I'm really the one you're after, what kind of critical matters...?

[monarch-squadron]

Believe me, I wasn't entirely sure myself at first. Still, the Viper believes you could be of great assistance. As for the matter of what we are requesting your help in, I'd say we should discuss that somewhere slightly more private. The rumors have more than enough fuel already. [They pull an odd looking object out of their pocket, slim and rectangular. Its surface is a magenta-purple, covered in precise engravings.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... Sure. Whatdd'ya have..?

[monarch-squadron]

Ah, don't worry about it. Frankly, I forgot what Viper called it, yamato breacher or somethin' pretentious like that. [She flips it around, revealing a blade within that swings out, before making two quick incisions in the air. You can see what looks like air warping from heat, before it splits the air itself and a dark void appears, bordered with the same pink-purple as the knife. They hold out a hand, and any conversation in the bus that had continued after the mention of the Adder's Head fell silent.] Shall we?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... A rift, eh... (can't just go around the side of the bus, like any normal person..?)

[With a hesitant nod, she follows her in, however. Can't say this is too out of the ordinary.]

》So. What exactly did you need my help for, of all things? -and don't even think about pulling anythin'.

[monarch-squadron]

To put it quite simply, you are going to assist in a plan to tear down GBI itself, a direct strike at their main fortress: the Colossbus.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... GBI. that's the... less than reputable, 'bus company' around, right..? I'd hardly want to get involved in that bunch. (... but I don't truly have much better to do, do I now.)

》...Tell you what, I'll consider it. What exactly are we talking here, and how would I be of any use to you..?

[monarch-squadron]

...Less than reputable is a slight understatement. Still, I understand your hesitation to involve yourself in affairs regarding them. As for the matter of what we are actually doing here, I don't know a lot on that front. All I know is, this is the big finale.

We're putting it all on the line, but if Viper thinks it's worth it, I trust that decision. For all their faults, they are not one to make rash decisions.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Hm... I understand that, yeah.

》Well, alright. ... If we're going to be working together, how about I show you some of my wares? I sell... well, masks. Sometimes, they have curious effects. Hard ta' tell which ones without firsthand confirmation, but some of them may be able to help in your siege. (-and I don't run em' for very much.)

[monarch-squadron]

Sure! What's in stock?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[She pulls her hefty back over her shoulder, and onto the ground. After scrounging around, she pulls a armfull of assorted masks out to display. One carved like a curious leaf, one a meld of many shards of metal, one a simple masquerade mask embellished by stark white feathers, and... so on.]

》... Anything strike your fancy...?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[The bus you're on stops. Odd, there is no stop here. As you look out the window, you can see that a red bus has pulled over next to it, and someone from it has stepped onto the bus. Her flight jacket bears a phoenix wing on its shoulder. After a moment of talking with the driver, she walks over to you.]

Hello there, Masky. Mind if I take a seat? We have some things to discuss.

》 Uh... hi ta' you too.

[With an air of suspicion, she fwips her usual mask onta' her face, before facing you, and continuing,]

》 Sure, I suppose. ...Who, exactly, am I talking to..?

[monarch-squadron]

Call me Blaze. [She sits down next to Masky, and the bus gets going again.]

You're quite talented, y'know that? Some have taken notice, including the Adder's Head themself. They have seen fit to request your assistance in critical matters.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》 Blaze, huh... I beg your pardon, I'm hardly the type folks ask help of. I'm merely a merchant, after all.

》 Not that I'm unwilling entirely, however. I don't know who you or that 'Adder's Head' may be, but if I'm really the one you're after, what kind of critical matters...?

[monarch-squadron]

Believe me, I wasn't entirely sure myself at first. Still, the Viper believes you could be of great assistance. As for the matter of what we are requesting your help in, I'd say we should discuss that somewhere slightly more private. The rumors have more than enough fuel already. [They pull an odd looking object out of their pocket, slim and rectangular. Its surface is a magenta-purple, covered in precise engravings.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... Sure. Whatdd'ya have..?

[monarch-squadron]

Ah, don't worry about it. Frankly, I forgot what Viper called it, yamato breacher or somethin' pretentious like that. [She flips it around, revealing a blade within that swings out, before making two quick incisions in the air. You can see what looks like air warping from heat, before it splits the air itself and a dark void appears, bordered with the same pink-purple as the knife. They hold out a hand, and any conversation in the bus that had continued after the mention of the Adder's Head fell silent.] Shall we?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... A rift, eh... (can't just go around the side of the bus, like any normal person..?)

[With a hesitant nod, she follows her in, however. Can't say this is too out of the ordinary.]

》So. What exactly did you need my help for, of all things? -and don't even think about pulling anythin'.

[monarch-squadron]

To put it quite simply, you are going to assist in a plan to tear down GBI itself, a direct strike at their main fortress: the Colossbus.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... GBI. that's the... less than reputable, 'bus company' around, right..? I'd hardly want to get involved in that bunch. (... but I don't truly have much better to do, do I now.)

》...Tell you what, I'll consider it. What exactly are we talking here, and how would I be of any use to you..?

[monarch-squadron]

...Less than reputable is a slight understatement. Still, I understand your hesitation to involve yourself in affairs regarding them. As for the matter of what we are actually doing here, I don't know a lot on that front. All I know is, this is the big finale.

We're putting it all on the line, but if Viper thinks it's worth it, I trust that decision. For all their faults, they are not one to make rash decisions.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》Hm... I understand that, yeah.

》Well, alright. ... If we're going to be working together, how about I show you some of my wares? I sell... well, masks. Sometimes, they have curious effects. Hard ta' tell which ones without firsthand confirmation, but some of them may be able to help in your siege. (-and I don't run em' for very much.)

[mask-sellingpassenger]

[The bus you're on stops. Odd, there is no stop here. As you look out the window, you can see that a red bus has pulled over next to it, and someone from it has stepped onto the bus. Her flight jacket bears a phoenix wing on its shoulder. After a moment of talking with the driver, she walks over to you.]

Hello there, Masky. Mind if I take a seat? We have some things to discuss.

》 Uh... hi ta' you too.

[With an air of suspicion, she fwips her usual mask onta' her face, before facing you, and continuing,]

》 Sure, I suppose. ...Who, exactly, am I talking to..?

[monarch-squadron]

Call me Blaze. [She sits down next to Masky, and the bus gets going again.]

You're quite talented, y'know that? Some have taken notice, including the Adder's Head themself. They have seen fit to request your assistance in critical matters.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》 Blaze, huh... I beg your pardon, I'm hardly the type folks ask help of. I'm merely a merchant, after all.

》 Not that I'm unwilling entirely, however. I don't know who you or that 'Adder's Head' may be, but if I'm really the one you're after, what kind of critical matters...?

[monarch-squadron]

Believe me, I wasn't entirely sure myself at first. Still, the Viper believes you could be of great assistance. As for the matter of what we are requesting your help in, I'd say we should discuss that somewhere slightly more private. The rumors have more than enough fuel already. [They pull an odd looking object out of their pocket, slim and rectangular. Its surface is a magenta-purple, covered in precise engravings.]

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... Sure. Whatdd'ya have..?

[monarch-squadron]

Ah, don't worry about it. Frankly, I forgot what Viper called it, yamato breacher or somethin' pretentious like that. [She flips it around, revealing a blade within that swings out, before making two quick incisions in the air. You can see what looks like air warping from heat, before it splits the air itself and a dark void appears, bordered with the same pink-purple as the knife. They hold out a hand, and any conversation in the bus that had continued after the mention of the Adder's Head fell silent.] Shall we?

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... A rift, eh... (can't just go around the side of the bus, like any normal person..?)

[With a hesitant nod, she follows her in, however. Can't say this is too out of the ordinary.]

》So. What exactly did you need my help for, of all things? -and don't even think about pulling anythin'.

[monarch-squadron]

To put it quite simply, you are going to assist in a plan to tear down GBI itself, a direct strike at their main fortress: the Colossbus.

[mask-sellingpassenger]

》... GBI. that's the... less than reputable, 'bus company' around, right..? I'd hardly want to get involved in that bunch. (... but I don't truly have much better to do, do I now.)

》...Tell you what, I'll consider it. What exactly are we talking here, and how would I be of any use to you..?