The Pale Vessel

(An rp blog for Pale Vessel Beef and the God Of The Pale Run by @dracl-dragon

[the-pale-vessel]

*Beef is in the Pale Garden, sitting beneath a tree. He doesn't seem to be speaking to anyone in particular.* "Oh.. you want me to introduce myself...? Um.. ok... I'm Beef, one of the Red Elites. And I guess I'm also the Pale Vessel... so that's.. fun."

[the-biome-gods]

*They help Beef out of the machine.*

*he looks.. visibly sickly. He's lost a deeply concerning amount of weight, hes visibly pale and desaturated, he has dark spots under his slightly sunken eyes..*

*the moment he realizes where he his, he panics..*

"N-no, shit- I h-have to help them-"

"No, you need rest-!"

*before Wind can actually stop him, he teleports away..*

[the-biome-gods]

...

*Wind has partially barricaded the door to their room.*

*They're wearing thick gloves that go all the way up to their elbows.*

*they slowly open the little temporary room they have Beef trapped in, carefully grabbing him and making sure he can't react them.*

*they strap him into the machine and activate it, stepping back.*

*There's a horrific, gutteral sound somewhere between a scream and a laugh, followed by silence...*

*As the machine opens, Beef is sitting there, dazed and a bit burned but alive.*

*and cured...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Beef is in a small, closed off area in Wind's room.*

*Blue blood is dripping down his face, spilling out of his mouth, nose, and eyes.*

*He's clawing at the walls, letting out seemingly agonized laughter.*

[the-biome-gods]

*Wind is alone in their room, kneeling in front of a shrine of sculk.*

*There's a single white candle slowly burning in front of it.*

"... I still miss you. I still love you. I hope you know that."

...

"Do you understand just how loved you were...? The things I was willing to do for you?"

...

. . .

"I am sorry, my love. I am sorry that I had to hurt you. But I made a promise. And I will keep that promise until the day my soul is extinguished."

. . .

"And you know me well... You know I will not go down in a gentle breeze. Both you and I know, if I am destroyed, it will be in a viscous storm."

"My demise will be a grand display..."

"One that I hope may leave calm after the storm..."

...

"I will protect these worlds, and the people within them, until my final breath. I will defend what you sought to destroy. You saw them as a plague, a blight upon your perfect world."

"Your views were flawed, my love. They are not a blight... they are just as much a part of this world as the earth and sky themselves."

[the-pale-vessel]

*A little while after Time finished explaining the Yellow King's atrocities, the entire Red Elites (and, of course, the professor) took up their weapons and headed off to face him. Despite being mutated still, Spark and Beef stood as proudly as ever, Beef still carrying his shield as always. Prof. Red is wearing a gas mask, nor wanting to spread spores unless he chooses to. He leads the group.*

Hello???

*They're stopped outside the castle by a pair of heavily armed guards.*

"Stop!"

"You can't be here!"

"The king has requested no visitors."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Before the gates, the guards are faced with three Red Steves. One carrying a large hammer, one covered in mushrooms and wearing a gas mask and a lab coat, and one wearing a thick robe with the hood up. There is also one that appears to be a multicolored centipede-thing, half his face is melting...But just behind them, is a very unnerving dragon-thing with a flat, spiraled face with one eye. It's neck is springy and its arms are long. Its mouth is at its chin, baring its sharp teeth. It's at least two or three times the size of them.*

*The one in the gas mask approaches the guards. They can see the mushrooms utterly cover his face. He has an unnatural smile on his face.*

Ohhhhh, is that soooo....?

[the-pale-vessel]

*The guards give each other a nervous look.*

"Yes, we have strict orders not to let anyone in!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Wellllllllll! That just won't do! We must have clearance, rightttt?

*He cocks his head to the side, his pitch going very high the longer he speaks in a sing-song tone.*

[the-pale-vessel]

"I'm sorry, sir.. we can't let you through."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Well, we can't be having that, sir!

*He attempts to walk past them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards back off a little, a bit too scared of the Professor to actually try to stop him.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He tries to fully make his way into the kingdom.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards retreat.*

*... its eerily quiet in this part of the kingdom.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He motions for the others to come through. Most of them pass by silently, not looking at the guards. Except for Beef, who keeps his eye on them as he trudges past.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Theres a few people out and about, but strangely few.*

*Isn't the Yellow Kingdom usually very populated..?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Now that they're inside, Prof. Red drops the act. They keep to themselves, though warily eyeing the lack of citizens around them.*

//This...doesn't look right...

//Yeah. If they're going to war....where is everyone...?

//Guess we'll find out.

//Indeed.

//Keep yourselves wary. The palace might have more guards, or worse, OSHA violations.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They get the feeling their being watched..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all stay on high alert, looking around.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see faint silvery white particles..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Hmmmm...

//Might as well!

*They follow him as he goes to investigate.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They don't see anything other than the particles. Though, they're vaguely person shaped.*

*Some kind of potion, perhaps?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Who are you?

*He says this straightforward and bluntly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They step back onto the grass, which squishes down under their invisible feet.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His voice softens a little.*

We won't hurt you, I promise.

If you're looking for a way out of here, we can do that.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They... start laughing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His demeanor almost immediately changes, his eyes squinting suspiciously. He tries to grab them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They pull out a firework...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*That doesn't deter him. Beef is ready to lunge at them if they try to escape.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They set it off, letting it go off up in the air.*

*...*

*they hear footsteps.*

*many, many sets of footsteps.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef immediately turns around, flaring out his wings. The others keep their eyes on the king.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They speak.*

"Hah, you really thought it was gonna be that easy?!"

*They sound... young. Far too young to be a king...*

*They see a small army of heavily armored yellow steves starting to surround them..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Huh..?

*They fully prepare to simply teleport away if necessary. Beef growls.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They're surrounded.*

*the invisible figure tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He lets them go, more focused on keeping his friends from getting hurt.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They have a lot of weapons pointed at them right now..*

*They could try to teleport to the King's castle, or they could try to retreat.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They try to teleport to the castle.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*There's only like three or four guards there.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He sighs.*

//Everyone, please disregard that scenario for now! Miscalculation on my part!

//That much is obvious.

//Are you gonna try to freak out the guards again?

//We might not have much time...

//I shall try.

*Like last time, he goes up to the guards with a freaky smile on his face. He speaks in a sing-song voice.*

Helllooooo! Lovelyyyy day we're having, yessssss?

[the-pale-vessel]

*Unlike the first two they encountered, these ones don't falter. They don't speak. Two of them block the door with their swords.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are we going to have a problem here?

*He figured as much. Spark looks back, checking if the army is coming for them.*

//Okay then! Who wants to commit murder? :)

//I...thought we weren't doing that.

//That was a joke! Who wants to get them to move, I mean?

//Alright, move over.

*Beef approaches them...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*they aren't being chased.*

*The guards don't flinch. The two blocking the door have their faces hidden by their helmets.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Move, before I force you to.

*He speaks in a low grumble. His gloved hands are almost the same size as the guards themselves...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The two at the door don't move, but the other two start backing away.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He stares the other two down.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both look tense, but don't move..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Permission to grab?

//Permission granted. Just don't throw them.

//Noted.

*Beef goes to grab both that stand at the door..*

[the-pale-vessel]

*One goes very still, accepting fate. The other tries to stab his hand.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He grabs the one that doesn't try to stab him. Though he clutches them firmly, he doesn't squish them. His glove seems to be...uncomfortably fleshy in texture, even with the armor they can see veins on it. He quite literally just places them a bit away from the door and the group. At the same time, he tries to grab the other one.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The other one tries to stab him again.*

*The one who got moved just awkwardly stands there, like they're surprised by still being alive.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He still grabs them, even if he gets stabbed a little. When they do, the blade seems to go through the glove like flesh, not fabric...He only half-flinches, moving them a little further away before letting them go. Spark awkwardly shrugs towards the one that got moved first.*

*When the guards are moved, they immediately head inside, Beef blocking the door so they can't follow.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They enter into the throne room. It seems empty...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red keeps an eye out for any traps...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He doesn't see any.*

*He hears talking in the next room. He can't tell what they're saying, but they sound smug.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Everyone stay quiet. Colle, Sharp, stay with me. Spark, Beef, stay here. We'll try to get a look.

//Okay...

*The three of them creep closer, glancing into the next room.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see the king, along with a yellow steve wearing iron armor with decorative horns and spikes on it.*

"How is the training coming along?"

"They should be ready by tonight, your highness.."

*The armored one sounds... tired.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all duck out of sight when they see a second person. That armor looks tough...Beef's hand still slightly bleeds, Prof. Red doesn't want him hurting himself...maybe they should listen longer...?*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one speaks hesitantly, a faint hint of fear in his tone,*

"Are you... absolutely sure about this your highness?"

"Yes! Are you questioning me?"

"N-no, sir.. it's just... the Red Kingdom has never been this.. quiet. It's suspicious.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mention of their kingdom makes everyone recoil. Sharp and and Colle look at the professor.*

//Okay. I'm going the fuck in. Colle, back me up. Beef, stay hidden til we call for you. Sharp, Spark, stay behind us but not too close. We don't know what they're capable of...

//Understood.

//O-Okay!

//Alright, I got your back.

//Good luck.

*Prof. Red takes a deep breath, spores clearly spitting out into the gas mask. He stretches his mushroom-arms before sprinting into the room.*

Hey! That's MY kingdom!

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both jump, the armored one pulling out a spear.*

"What do you think you're doing here?!"

*The armored one starts slowly backing towards a door leading further into the castle, eyes wide with fear, darting between the King and the Professor.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Stopping you, obviously!

*Colle wields Judge's hammer, rolling his eyes. Prof Red nods towards the armored figure, fully willing to let them escape. He's only here for one person.*

We're already aware of what you're after, you bastard!

*Behind them, both Yellow Steves can see a Red Steve in a robe and one that appears to be half-bug.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one retreats, wanting absolutely nothing to do with this.*

"And what makes you think you can stop me?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red glares at him, more spores filling his gas mask.*

Because we've got way more up our sleeves than you ever will!

[the-pale-vessel]

*He takes a slow step back, eyes narrowing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He smiles creepily, his eyes wide and crazed. He removes his gas mask....*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, pulling a small book out of his pocket and very quickly flicking through it, looking for something.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He opens his mouth, sending out a cloud of spores. They gather into a mushroom-creature that spawns not far from the king. Its empty eyes stare at him with the same unsettling smile...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, whispering as he starts to read something out from the book.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red snaps his fingers, and the mushroom-beast tries to go for the book...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Right as it does, a jet of vivid gold flames shoots out from the King's hands. He drops the book.*

*he nearly loses balance as the blast pushes him back, clearly not able to control it very well.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*It does get burned. Prof. Red visibly flinches, but it turns around to bring it back to its creator. Prof Red hands the book off to Sharp before approaching the king again.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The fire stops spraying shortly after.*

*The king attempts to retreat further into the castle.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

HEY-

*Both Colle and Prof. Red run after him.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He's fast, but clearly unsteady.*

*He trips..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle immediately is on him, pointing his hammer at him. Soon Prof. Red catches up, the half-burned mushroom standing behind the king.*

End of the line, hm?

[the-pale-vessel]

*He tries to grab Colle to electrocute him..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He immediately steps back, and tries to slam his hammer into his arm.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he yelps and ducks out of the way.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mushroom tries to restrain him as Colle winds up for another hit.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He struggles, but doesn’t get away this time.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red approaches him, gas mask on again.*

Now....we have justtttttt a few questions for you, little king...

[the-pale-vessel]

"What do you want..?" *He hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Just HOW much are you planning on conquering, hmmm?

[the-pale-vessel]

"I wasn't conquering! I was simply sending a troop out to scout.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

"Scout," hm? Why would you be needing such a rigorous training regimen for scouting?

[the-pale-vessel]

"How I train my troops is none of your business.." *he hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are you or are you not planning to go "scouting out" more than the Red Kingdom?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"We're scouting a few other places, but that's all we're doing. Scouting."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

I don't believe you.

//Okay, Beef, cmon in. I gotta scare the pants off this guy.

//Alrightttttt.

[the-pale-vessel]

*he huffs,* "If i was going to conquer a kingdom, why would i go after somewhere as useless as the Red Kingdom?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Everyone in the room glares at him. Prof. Red punches him in the face as Beef comes into the room.*

We are NOT useless!

[the-pale-vessel]

"oW- I did not say the red steves are useless, I said your kingdom is!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Might as well be the same thing!

*Beef shambles over, looking downright murderous.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He starts whispering something...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

What was that?

[the-pale-vessel]

*His eyes glow as he falls silent..*

*Sharp and Colle both see a bright flash.*

*Colle gets deep blue and grey rings and patches around his neck.*

*Sharp gets purplish grey around his eyes. His eyes turn completely grey, as well..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle tries to ask what happened, but...no noise comes out. He tries to send a comm and-*

//!!!

*No words.*

*Sharp's vision goes dark. He tries to lift up his hood, and that doesn't change anything. He almost drops the King's spellbook, but Spark grabs his hands. The word out of Prof. Red's mouth makes them panic more.*

Shit.

*Beef picks up everyone but the professor, moving them out of the King's sight.*

I'm just moving you, Sharp, it's just me..

*He turns his attention back to the king, eye glaring with an intensity of a million suns.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The king takes his chance and tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Absolutely NOT.

*Beef's huge hand smacks him to the floor, voice booming across the castle halls. He snarls a little. The mushroom creature goes to look over their friends as the professor tries to come up with a solution on the fly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he hisses in pain.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef squeezes him as he clutches him in his fist.*

Are you planning on destroying the kingdoms and assimilating them into your own?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"No?! Why would you think that?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Because you're OBVIOUSLY plotting something!

*He squeezes harder...*

[the-pale-vessel]

"OW- DAMN IT, LET GO OF ME YOU FREAK!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Nope!

*He squeezes harder...it feels like his bones are being crushed...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He screams in pain, trying to get out of Beef's grasp.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He squeezes even harder, before suddenly dropping him, and crushing his head beneath his feet.*

....There. We need to get the hell out of here and fix these two.

But you just-

We were getting nowhere with him! We need to go find Wind or someone who can fix the curses! You know that!

C-curses...?

*Colle looks up at them, and to Sharp, with scared eyes. Prof. Red looks at the King's crushed body.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*There's pink blood pouring out from the king's crushed head..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*After they leave, a splash healing potion is suddenly dropped on him. It heals him just enough to survive...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He wakes up with a sharp gasp, before teleporting somewhere..*

[the-pale-vessel]

*A little while after Time finished explaining the Yellow King's atrocities, the entire Red Elites (and, of course, the professor) took up their weapons and headed off to face him. Despite being mutated still, Spark and Beef stood as proudly as ever, Beef still carrying his shield as always. Prof. Red is wearing a gas mask, nor wanting to spread spores unless he chooses to. He leads the group.*

Hello???

*They're stopped outside the castle by a pair of heavily armed guards.*

"Stop!"

"You can't be here!"

"The king has requested no visitors."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Before the gates, the guards are faced with three Red Steves. One carrying a large hammer, one covered in mushrooms and wearing a gas mask and a lab coat, and one wearing a thick robe with the hood up. There is also one that appears to be a multicolored centipede-thing, half his face is melting...But just behind them, is a very unnerving dragon-thing with a flat, spiraled face with one eye. It's neck is springy and its arms are long. Its mouth is at its chin, baring its sharp teeth. It's at least two or three times the size of them.*

*The one in the gas mask approaches the guards. They can see the mushrooms utterly cover his face. He has an unnatural smile on his face.*

Ohhhhh, is that soooo....?

[the-pale-vessel]

*The guards give each other a nervous look.*

"Yes, we have strict orders not to let anyone in!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Wellllllllll! That just won't do! We must have clearance, rightttt?

*He cocks his head to the side, his pitch going very high the longer he speaks in a sing-song tone.*

[the-pale-vessel]

"I'm sorry, sir.. we can't let you through."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Well, we can't be having that, sir!

*He attempts to walk past them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards back off a little, a bit too scared of the Professor to actually try to stop him.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He tries to fully make his way into the kingdom.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards retreat.*

*... its eerily quiet in this part of the kingdom.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He motions for the others to come through. Most of them pass by silently, not looking at the guards. Except for Beef, who keeps his eye on them as he trudges past.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Theres a few people out and about, but strangely few.*

*Isn't the Yellow Kingdom usually very populated..?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Now that they're inside, Prof. Red drops the act. They keep to themselves, though warily eyeing the lack of citizens around them.*

//This...doesn't look right...

//Yeah. If they're going to war....where is everyone...?

//Guess we'll find out.

//Indeed.

//Keep yourselves wary. The palace might have more guards, or worse, OSHA violations.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They get the feeling their being watched..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all stay on high alert, looking around.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see faint silvery white particles..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Hmmmm...

//Might as well!

*They follow him as he goes to investigate.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They don't see anything other than the particles. Though, they're vaguely person shaped.*

*Some kind of potion, perhaps?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Who are you?

*He says this straightforward and bluntly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They step back onto the grass, which squishes down under their invisible feet.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His voice softens a little.*

We won't hurt you, I promise.

If you're looking for a way out of here, we can do that.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They... start laughing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His demeanor almost immediately changes, his eyes squinting suspiciously. He tries to grab them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They pull out a firework...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*That doesn't deter him. Beef is ready to lunge at them if they try to escape.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They set it off, letting it go off up in the air.*

*...*

*they hear footsteps.*

*many, many sets of footsteps.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef immediately turns around, flaring out his wings. The others keep their eyes on the king.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They speak.*

"Hah, you really thought it was gonna be that easy?!"

*They sound... young. Far too young to be a king...*

*They see a small army of heavily armored yellow steves starting to surround them..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Huh..?

*They fully prepare to simply teleport away if necessary. Beef growls.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They're surrounded.*

*the invisible figure tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He lets them go, more focused on keeping his friends from getting hurt.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They have a lot of weapons pointed at them right now..*

*They could try to teleport to the King's castle, or they could try to retreat.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They try to teleport to the castle.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*There's only like three or four guards there.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He sighs.*

//Everyone, please disregard that scenario for now! Miscalculation on my part!

//That much is obvious.

//Are you gonna try to freak out the guards again?

//We might not have much time...

//I shall try.

*Like last time, he goes up to the guards with a freaky smile on his face. He speaks in a sing-song voice.*

Helllooooo! Lovelyyyy day we're having, yessssss?

[the-pale-vessel]

*Unlike the first two they encountered, these ones don't falter. They don't speak. Two of them block the door with their swords.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are we going to have a problem here?

*He figured as much. Spark looks back, checking if the army is coming for them.*

//Okay then! Who wants to commit murder? :)

//I...thought we weren't doing that.

//That was a joke! Who wants to get them to move, I mean?

//Alright, move over.

*Beef approaches them...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*they aren't being chased.*

*The guards don't flinch. The two blocking the door have their faces hidden by their helmets.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Move, before I force you to.

*He speaks in a low grumble. His gloved hands are almost the same size as the guards themselves...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The two at the door don't move, but the other two start backing away.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He stares the other two down.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both look tense, but don't move..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Permission to grab?

//Permission granted. Just don't throw them.

//Noted.

*Beef goes to grab both that stand at the door..*

[the-pale-vessel]

*One goes very still, accepting fate. The other tries to stab his hand.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He grabs the one that doesn't try to stab him. Though he clutches them firmly, he doesn't squish them. His glove seems to be...uncomfortably fleshy in texture, even with the armor they can see veins on it. He quite literally just places them a bit away from the door and the group. At the same time, he tries to grab the other one.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The other one tries to stab him again.*

*The one who got moved just awkwardly stands there, like they're surprised by still being alive.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He still grabs them, even if he gets stabbed a little. When they do, the blade seems to go through the glove like flesh, not fabric...He only half-flinches, moving them a little further away before letting them go. Spark awkwardly shrugs towards the one that got moved first.*

*When the guards are moved, they immediately head inside, Beef blocking the door so they can't follow.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They enter into the throne room. It seems empty...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red keeps an eye out for any traps...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He doesn't see any.*

*He hears talking in the next room. He can't tell what they're saying, but they sound smug.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Everyone stay quiet. Colle, Sharp, stay with me. Spark, Beef, stay here. We'll try to get a look.

//Okay...

*The three of them creep closer, glancing into the next room.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see the king, along with a yellow steve wearing iron armor with decorative horns and spikes on it.*

"How is the training coming along?"

"They should be ready by tonight, your highness.."

*The armored one sounds... tired.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all duck out of sight when they see a second person. That armor looks tough...Beef's hand still slightly bleeds, Prof. Red doesn't want him hurting himself...maybe they should listen longer...?*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one speaks hesitantly, a faint hint of fear in his tone,*

"Are you... absolutely sure about this your highness?"

"Yes! Are you questioning me?"

"N-no, sir.. it's just... the Red Kingdom has never been this.. quiet. It's suspicious.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mention of their kingdom makes everyone recoil. Sharp and and Colle look at the professor.*

//Okay. I'm going the fuck in. Colle, back me up. Beef, stay hidden til we call for you. Sharp, Spark, stay behind us but not too close. We don't know what they're capable of...

//Understood.

//O-Okay!

//Alright, I got your back.

//Good luck.

*Prof. Red takes a deep breath, spores clearly spitting out into the gas mask. He stretches his mushroom-arms before sprinting into the room.*

Hey! That's MY kingdom!

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both jump, the armored one pulling out a spear.*

"What do you think you're doing here?!"

*The armored one starts slowly backing towards a door leading further into the castle, eyes wide with fear, darting between the King and the Professor.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Stopping you, obviously!

*Colle wields Judge's hammer, rolling his eyes. Prof Red nods towards the armored figure, fully willing to let them escape. He's only here for one person.*

We're already aware of what you're after, you bastard!

*Behind them, both Yellow Steves can see a Red Steve in a robe and one that appears to be half-bug.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one retreats, wanting absolutely nothing to do with this.*

"And what makes you think you can stop me?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red glares at him, more spores filling his gas mask.*

Because we've got way more up our sleeves than you ever will!

[the-pale-vessel]

*He takes a slow step back, eyes narrowing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He smiles creepily, his eyes wide and crazed. He removes his gas mask....*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, pulling a small book out of his pocket and very quickly flicking through it, looking for something.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He opens his mouth, sending out a cloud of spores. They gather into a mushroom-creature that spawns not far from the king. Its empty eyes stare at him with the same unsettling smile...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, whispering as he starts to read something out from the book.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red snaps his fingers, and the mushroom-beast tries to go for the book...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Right as it does, a jet of vivid gold flames shoots out from the King's hands. He drops the book.*

*he nearly loses balance as the blast pushes him back, clearly not able to control it very well.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*It does get burned. Prof. Red visibly flinches, but it turns around to bring it back to its creator. Prof Red hands the book off to Sharp before approaching the king again.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The fire stops spraying shortly after.*

*The king attempts to retreat further into the castle.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

HEY-

*Both Colle and Prof. Red run after him.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He's fast, but clearly unsteady.*

*He trips..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle immediately is on him, pointing his hammer at him. Soon Prof. Red catches up, the half-burned mushroom standing behind the king.*

End of the line, hm?

[the-pale-vessel]

*He tries to grab Colle to electrocute him..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He immediately steps back, and tries to slam his hammer into his arm.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he yelps and ducks out of the way.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mushroom tries to restrain him as Colle winds up for another hit.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He struggles, but doesn’t get away this time.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red approaches him, gas mask on again.*

Now....we have justtttttt a few questions for you, little king...

[the-pale-vessel]

"What do you want..?" *He hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Just HOW much are you planning on conquering, hmmm?

[the-pale-vessel]

"I wasn't conquering! I was simply sending a troop out to scout.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

"Scout," hm? Why would you be needing such a rigorous training regimen for scouting?

[the-pale-vessel]

"How I train my troops is none of your business.." *he hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are you or are you not planning to go "scouting out" more than the Red Kingdom?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"We're scouting a few other places, but that's all we're doing. Scouting."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

I don't believe you.

//Okay, Beef, cmon in. I gotta scare the pants off this guy.

//Alrightttttt.

[the-pale-vessel]

*he huffs,* "If i was going to conquer a kingdom, why would i go after somewhere as useless as the Red Kingdom?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Everyone in the room glares at him. Prof. Red punches him in the face as Beef comes into the room.*

We are NOT useless!

[the-pale-vessel]

"oW- I did not say the red steves are useless, I said your kingdom is!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Might as well be the same thing!

*Beef shambles over, looking downright murderous.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He starts whispering something...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

What was that?

[the-pale-vessel]

*His eyes glow as he falls silent..*

*Sharp and Colle both see a bright flash.*

*Colle gets deep blue and grey rings and patches around his neck.*

*Sharp gets purplish grey around his eyes. His eyes turn completely grey, as well..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle tries to ask what happened, but...no noise comes out. He tries to send a comm and-*

//!!!

*No words.*

*Sharp's vision goes dark. He tries to lift up his hood, and that doesn't change anything. He almost drops the King's spellbook, but Spark grabs his hands. The word out of Prof. Red's mouth makes them panic more.*

Shit.

*Beef picks up everyone but the professor, moving them out of the King's sight.*

I'm just moving you, Sharp, it's just me..

*He turns his attention back to the king, eye glaring with an intensity of a million suns.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The king takes his chance and tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Absolutely NOT.

*Beef's huge hand smacks him to the floor, voice booming across the castle halls. He snarls a little. The mushroom creature goes to look over their friends as the professor tries to come up with a solution on the fly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he hisses in pain.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef squeezes him as he clutches him in his fist.*

Are you planning on destroying the kingdoms and assimilating them into your own?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"No?! Why would you think that?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Because you're OBVIOUSLY plotting something!

*He squeezes harder...*

[the-pale-vessel]

"OW- DAMN IT, LET GO OF ME YOU FREAK!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Nope!

*He squeezes harder...it feels like his bones are being crushed...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He screams in pain, trying to get out of Beef's grasp.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He squeezes even harder, before suddenly dropping him, and crushing his head beneath his feet.*

....There. We need to get the hell out of here and fix these two.

But you just-

We were getting nowhere with him! We need to go find Wind or someone who can fix the curses! You know that!

C-curses...?

*Colle looks up at them, and to Sharp, with scared eyes. Prof. Red looks at the King's crushed body.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*There's pink blood pouring out from the king's crushed head..*

[the-pale-vessel]

*A little while after Time finished explaining the Yellow King's atrocities, the entire Red Elites (and, of course, the professor) took up their weapons and headed off to face him. Despite being mutated still, Spark and Beef stood as proudly as ever, Beef still carrying his shield as always. Prof. Red is wearing a gas mask, nor wanting to spread spores unless he chooses to. He leads the group.*

Hello???

*They're stopped outside the castle by a pair of heavily armed guards.*

"Stop!"

"You can't be here!"

"The king has requested no visitors."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Before the gates, the guards are faced with three Red Steves. One carrying a large hammer, one covered in mushrooms and wearing a gas mask and a lab coat, and one wearing a thick robe with the hood up. There is also one that appears to be a multicolored centipede-thing, half his face is melting...But just behind them, is a very unnerving dragon-thing with a flat, spiraled face with one eye. It's neck is springy and its arms are long. Its mouth is at its chin, baring its sharp teeth. It's at least two or three times the size of them.*

*The one in the gas mask approaches the guards. They can see the mushrooms utterly cover his face. He has an unnatural smile on his face.*

Ohhhhh, is that soooo....?

[the-pale-vessel]

*The guards give each other a nervous look.*

"Yes, we have strict orders not to let anyone in!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Wellllllllll! That just won't do! We must have clearance, rightttt?

*He cocks his head to the side, his pitch going very high the longer he speaks in a sing-song tone.*

[the-pale-vessel]

"I'm sorry, sir.. we can't let you through."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Well, we can't be having that, sir!

*He attempts to walk past them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards back off a little, a bit too scared of the Professor to actually try to stop him.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He tries to fully make his way into the kingdom.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards retreat.*

*... its eerily quiet in this part of the kingdom.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He motions for the others to come through. Most of them pass by silently, not looking at the guards. Except for Beef, who keeps his eye on them as he trudges past.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Theres a few people out and about, but strangely few.*

*Isn't the Yellow Kingdom usually very populated..?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Now that they're inside, Prof. Red drops the act. They keep to themselves, though warily eyeing the lack of citizens around them.*

//This...doesn't look right...

//Yeah. If they're going to war....where is everyone...?

//Guess we'll find out.

//Indeed.

//Keep yourselves wary. The palace might have more guards, or worse, OSHA violations.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They get the feeling their being watched..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all stay on high alert, looking around.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see faint silvery white particles..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Hmmmm...

//Might as well!

*They follow him as he goes to investigate.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They don't see anything other than the particles. Though, they're vaguely person shaped.*

*Some kind of potion, perhaps?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Who are you?

*He says this straightforward and bluntly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They step back onto the grass, which squishes down under their invisible feet.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His voice softens a little.*

We won't hurt you, I promise.

If you're looking for a way out of here, we can do that.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They... start laughing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His demeanor almost immediately changes, his eyes squinting suspiciously. He tries to grab them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They pull out a firework...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*That doesn't deter him. Beef is ready to lunge at them if they try to escape.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They set it off, letting it go off up in the air.*

*...*

*they hear footsteps.*

*many, many sets of footsteps.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef immediately turns around, flaring out his wings. The others keep their eyes on the king.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They speak.*

"Hah, you really thought it was gonna be that easy?!"

*They sound... young. Far too young to be a king...*

*They see a small army of heavily armored yellow steves starting to surround them..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Huh..?

*They fully prepare to simply teleport away if necessary. Beef growls.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They're surrounded.*

*the invisible figure tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He lets them go, more focused on keeping his friends from getting hurt.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They have a lot of weapons pointed at them right now..*

*They could try to teleport to the King's castle, or they could try to retreat.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They try to teleport to the castle.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*There's only like three or four guards there.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He sighs.*

//Everyone, please disregard that scenario for now! Miscalculation on my part!

//That much is obvious.

//Are you gonna try to freak out the guards again?

//We might not have much time...

//I shall try.

*Like last time, he goes up to the guards with a freaky smile on his face. He speaks in a sing-song voice.*

Helllooooo! Lovelyyyy day we're having, yessssss?

[the-pale-vessel]

*Unlike the first two they encountered, these ones don't falter. They don't speak. Two of them block the door with their swords.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are we going to have a problem here?

*He figured as much. Spark looks back, checking if the army is coming for them.*

//Okay then! Who wants to commit murder? :)

//I...thought we weren't doing that.

//That was a joke! Who wants to get them to move, I mean?

//Alright, move over.

*Beef approaches them...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*they aren't being chased.*

*The guards don't flinch. The two blocking the door have their faces hidden by their helmets.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Move, before I force you to.

*He speaks in a low grumble. His gloved hands are almost the same size as the guards themselves...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The two at the door don't move, but the other two start backing away.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He stares the other two down.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both look tense, but don't move..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Permission to grab?

//Permission granted. Just don't throw them.

//Noted.

*Beef goes to grab both that stand at the door..*

[the-pale-vessel]

*One goes very still, accepting fate. The other tries to stab his hand.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He grabs the one that doesn't try to stab him. Though he clutches them firmly, he doesn't squish them. His glove seems to be...uncomfortably fleshy in texture, even with the armor they can see veins on it. He quite literally just places them a bit away from the door and the group. At the same time, he tries to grab the other one.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The other one tries to stab him again.*

*The one who got moved just awkwardly stands there, like they're surprised by still being alive.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He still grabs them, even if he gets stabbed a little. When they do, the blade seems to go through the glove like flesh, not fabric...He only half-flinches, moving them a little further away before letting them go. Spark awkwardly shrugs towards the one that got moved first.*

*When the guards are moved, they immediately head inside, Beef blocking the door so they can't follow.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They enter into the throne room. It seems empty...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red keeps an eye out for any traps...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He doesn't see any.*

*He hears talking in the next room. He can't tell what they're saying, but they sound smug.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Everyone stay quiet. Colle, Sharp, stay with me. Spark, Beef, stay here. We'll try to get a look.

//Okay...

*The three of them creep closer, glancing into the next room.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see the king, along with a yellow steve wearing iron armor with decorative horns and spikes on it.*

"How is the training coming along?"

"They should be ready by tonight, your highness.."

*The armored one sounds... tired.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all duck out of sight when they see a second person. That armor looks tough...Beef's hand still slightly bleeds, Prof. Red doesn't want him hurting himself...maybe they should listen longer...?*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one speaks hesitantly, a faint hint of fear in his tone,*

"Are you... absolutely sure about this your highness?"

"Yes! Are you questioning me?"

"N-no, sir.. it's just... the Red Kingdom has never been this.. quiet. It's suspicious.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mention of their kingdom makes everyone recoil. Sharp and and Colle look at the professor.*

//Okay. I'm going the fuck in. Colle, back me up. Beef, stay hidden til we call for you. Sharp, Spark, stay behind us but not too close. We don't know what they're capable of...

//Understood.

//O-Okay!

//Alright, I got your back.

//Good luck.

*Prof. Red takes a deep breath, spores clearly spitting out into the gas mask. He stretches his mushroom-arms before sprinting into the room.*

Hey! That's MY kingdom!

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both jump, the armored one pulling out a spear.*

"What do you think you're doing here?!"

*The armored one starts slowly backing towards a door leading further into the castle, eyes wide with fear, darting between the King and the Professor.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Stopping you, obviously!

*Colle wields Judge's hammer, rolling his eyes. Prof Red nods towards the armored figure, fully willing to let them escape. He's only here for one person.*

We're already aware of what you're after, you bastard!

*Behind them, both Yellow Steves can see a Red Steve in a robe and one that appears to be half-bug.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one retreats, wanting absolutely nothing to do with this.*

"And what makes you think you can stop me?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red glares at him, more spores filling his gas mask.*

Because we've got way more up our sleeves than you ever will!

[the-pale-vessel]

*He takes a slow step back, eyes narrowing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He smiles creepily, his eyes wide and crazed. He removes his gas mask....*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, pulling a small book out of his pocket and very quickly flicking through it, looking for something.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He opens his mouth, sending out a cloud of spores. They gather into a mushroom-creature that spawns not far from the king. Its empty eyes stare at him with the same unsettling smile...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, whispering as he starts to read something out from the book.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red snaps his fingers, and the mushroom-beast tries to go for the book...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Right as it does, a jet of vivid gold flames shoots out from the King's hands. He drops the book.*

*he nearly loses balance as the blast pushes him back, clearly not able to control it very well.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*It does get burned. Prof. Red visibly flinches, but it turns around to bring it back to its creator. Prof Red hands the book off to Sharp before approaching the king again.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The fire stops spraying shortly after.*

*The king attempts to retreat further into the castle.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

HEY-

*Both Colle and Prof. Red run after him.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He's fast, but clearly unsteady.*

*He trips..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle immediately is on him, pointing his hammer at him. Soon Prof. Red catches up, the half-burned mushroom standing behind the king.*

End of the line, hm?

[the-pale-vessel]

*He tries to grab Colle to electrocute him..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He immediately steps back, and tries to slam his hammer into his arm.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he yelps and ducks out of the way.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mushroom tries to restrain him as Colle winds up for another hit.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He struggles, but doesn’t get away this time.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red approaches him, gas mask on again.*

Now....we have justtttttt a few questions for you, little king...

[the-pale-vessel]

"What do you want..?" *He hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Just HOW much are you planning on conquering, hmmm?

[the-pale-vessel]

"I wasn't conquering! I was simply sending a troop out to scout.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

"Scout," hm? Why would you be needing such a rigorous training regimen for scouting?

[the-pale-vessel]

"How I train my troops is none of your business.." *he hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are you or are you not planning to go "scouting out" more than the Red Kingdom?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"We're scouting a few other places, but that's all we're doing. Scouting."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

I don't believe you.

//Okay, Beef, cmon in. I gotta scare the pants off this guy.

//Alrightttttt.

[the-pale-vessel]

*he huffs,* "If i was going to conquer a kingdom, why would i go after somewhere as useless as the Red Kingdom?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Everyone in the room glares at him. Prof. Red punches him in the face as Beef comes into the room.*

We are NOT useless!

[the-pale-vessel]

"oW- I did not say the red steves are useless, I said your kingdom is!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Might as well be the same thing!

*Beef shambles over, looking downright murderous.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He starts whispering something...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

What was that?

[the-pale-vessel]

*His eyes glow as he falls silent..*

*Sharp and Colle both see a bright flash.*

*Colle gets deep blue and grey rings and patches around his neck.*

*Sharp gets purplish grey around his eyes. His eyes turn completely grey, as well..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle tries to ask what happened, but...no noise comes out. He tries to send a comm and-*

//!!!

*No words.*

*Sharp's vision goes dark. He tries to lift up his hood, and that doesn't change anything. He almost drops the King's spellbook, but Spark grabs his hands. The word out of Prof. Red's mouth makes them panic more.*

Shit.

*Beef picks up everyone but the professor, moving them out of the King's sight.*

I'm just moving you, Sharp, it's just me..

*He turns his attention back to the king, eye glaring with an intensity of a million suns.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The king takes his chance and tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Absolutely NOT.

*Beef's huge hand smacks him to the floor, voice booming across the castle halls. He snarls a little. The mushroom creature goes to look over their friends as the professor tries to come up with a solution on the fly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he hisses in pain.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef squeezes him as he clutches him in his fist.*

Are you planning on destroying the kingdoms and assimilating them into your own?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"No?! Why would you think that?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Because you're OBVIOUSLY plotting something!

*He squeezes harder...*

[the-pale-vessel]

"OW- DAMN IT, LET GO OF ME YOU FREAK!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Nope!

*He squeezes harder...it feels like his bones are being crushed...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He screams in pain, trying to get out of Beef's grasp.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*A little while after Time finished explaining the Yellow King's atrocities, the entire Red Elites (and, of course, the professor) took up their weapons and headed off to face him. Despite being mutated still, Spark and Beef stood as proudly as ever, Beef still carrying his shield as always. Prof. Red is wearing a gas mask, nor wanting to spread spores unless he chooses to. He leads the group.*

Hello???

*They're stopped outside the castle by a pair of heavily armed guards.*

"Stop!"

"You can't be here!"

"The king has requested no visitors."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Before the gates, the guards are faced with three Red Steves. One carrying a large hammer, one covered in mushrooms and wearing a gas mask and a lab coat, and one wearing a thick robe with the hood up. There is also one that appears to be a multicolored centipede-thing, half his face is melting...But just behind them, is a very unnerving dragon-thing with a flat, spiraled face with one eye. It's neck is springy and its arms are long. Its mouth is at its chin, baring its sharp teeth. It's at least two or three times the size of them.*

*The one in the gas mask approaches the guards. They can see the mushrooms utterly cover his face. He has an unnatural smile on his face.*

Ohhhhh, is that soooo....?

[the-pale-vessel]

*The guards give each other a nervous look.*

"Yes, we have strict orders not to let anyone in!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Wellllllllll! That just won't do! We must have clearance, rightttt?

*He cocks his head to the side, his pitch going very high the longer he speaks in a sing-song tone.*

[the-pale-vessel]

"I'm sorry, sir.. we can't let you through."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Well, we can't be having that, sir!

*He attempts to walk past them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards back off a little, a bit too scared of the Professor to actually try to stop him.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He tries to fully make his way into the kingdom.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards retreat.*

*... its eerily quiet in this part of the kingdom.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He motions for the others to come through. Most of them pass by silently, not looking at the guards. Except for Beef, who keeps his eye on them as he trudges past.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Theres a few people out and about, but strangely few.*

*Isn't the Yellow Kingdom usually very populated..?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Now that they're inside, Prof. Red drops the act. They keep to themselves, though warily eyeing the lack of citizens around them.*

//This...doesn't look right...

//Yeah. If they're going to war....where is everyone...?

//Guess we'll find out.

//Indeed.

//Keep yourselves wary. The palace might have more guards, or worse, OSHA violations.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They get the feeling their being watched..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all stay on high alert, looking around.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see faint silvery white particles..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Hmmmm...

//Might as well!

*They follow him as he goes to investigate.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They don't see anything other than the particles. Though, they're vaguely person shaped.*

*Some kind of potion, perhaps?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Who are you?

*He says this straightforward and bluntly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They step back onto the grass, which squishes down under their invisible feet.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His voice softens a little.*

We won't hurt you, I promise.

If you're looking for a way out of here, we can do that.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They... start laughing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His demeanor almost immediately changes, his eyes squinting suspiciously. He tries to grab them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They pull out a firework...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*That doesn't deter him. Beef is ready to lunge at them if they try to escape.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They set it off, letting it go off up in the air.*

*...*

*they hear footsteps.*

*many, many sets of footsteps.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef immediately turns around, flaring out his wings. The others keep their eyes on the king.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They speak.*

"Hah, you really thought it was gonna be that easy?!"

*They sound... young. Far too young to be a king...*

*They see a small army of heavily armored yellow steves starting to surround them..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Huh..?

*They fully prepare to simply teleport away if necessary. Beef growls.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They're surrounded.*

*the invisible figure tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He lets them go, more focused on keeping his friends from getting hurt.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They have a lot of weapons pointed at them right now..*

*They could try to teleport to the King's castle, or they could try to retreat.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They try to teleport to the castle.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*There's only like three or four guards there.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He sighs.*

//Everyone, please disregard that scenario for now! Miscalculation on my part!

//That much is obvious.

//Are you gonna try to freak out the guards again?

//We might not have much time...

//I shall try.

*Like last time, he goes up to the guards with a freaky smile on his face. He speaks in a sing-song voice.*

Helllooooo! Lovelyyyy day we're having, yessssss?

[the-pale-vessel]

*Unlike the first two they encountered, these ones don't falter. They don't speak. Two of them block the door with their swords.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are we going to have a problem here?

*He figured as much. Spark looks back, checking if the army is coming for them.*

//Okay then! Who wants to commit murder? :)

//I...thought we weren't doing that.

//That was a joke! Who wants to get them to move, I mean?

//Alright, move over.

*Beef approaches them...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*they aren't being chased.*

*The guards don't flinch. The two blocking the door have their faces hidden by their helmets.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Move, before I force you to.

*He speaks in a low grumble. His gloved hands are almost the same size as the guards themselves...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The two at the door don't move, but the other two start backing away.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He stares the other two down.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both look tense, but don't move..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Permission to grab?

//Permission granted. Just don't throw them.

//Noted.

*Beef goes to grab both that stand at the door..*

[the-pale-vessel]

*One goes very still, accepting fate. The other tries to stab his hand.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He grabs the one that doesn't try to stab him. Though he clutches them firmly, he doesn't squish them. His glove seems to be...uncomfortably fleshy in texture, even with the armor they can see veins on it. He quite literally just places them a bit away from the door and the group. At the same time, he tries to grab the other one.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The other one tries to stab him again.*

*The one who got moved just awkwardly stands there, like they're surprised by still being alive.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He still grabs them, even if he gets stabbed a little. When they do, the blade seems to go through the glove like flesh, not fabric...He only half-flinches, moving them a little further away before letting them go. Spark awkwardly shrugs towards the one that got moved first.*

*When the guards are moved, they immediately head inside, Beef blocking the door so they can't follow.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They enter into the throne room. It seems empty...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red keeps an eye out for any traps...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He doesn't see any.*

*He hears talking in the next room. He can't tell what they're saying, but they sound smug.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Everyone stay quiet. Colle, Sharp, stay with me. Spark, Beef, stay here. We'll try to get a look.

//Okay...

*The three of them creep closer, glancing into the next room.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see the king, along with a yellow steve wearing iron armor with decorative horns and spikes on it.*

"How is the training coming along?"

"They should be ready by tonight, your highness.."

*The armored one sounds... tired.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all duck out of sight when they see a second person. That armor looks tough...Beef's hand still slightly bleeds, Prof. Red doesn't want him hurting himself...maybe they should listen longer...?*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one speaks hesitantly, a faint hint of fear in his tone,*

"Are you... absolutely sure about this your highness?"

"Yes! Are you questioning me?"

"N-no, sir.. it's just... the Red Kingdom has never been this.. quiet. It's suspicious.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mention of their kingdom makes everyone recoil. Sharp and and Colle look at the professor.*

//Okay. I'm going the fuck in. Colle, back me up. Beef, stay hidden til we call for you. Sharp, Spark, stay behind us but not too close. We don't know what they're capable of...

//Understood.

//O-Okay!

//Alright, I got your back.

//Good luck.

*Prof. Red takes a deep breath, spores clearly spitting out into the gas mask. He stretches his mushroom-arms before sprinting into the room.*

Hey! That's MY kingdom!

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both jump, the armored one pulling out a spear.*

"What do you think you're doing here?!"

*The armored one starts slowly backing towards a door leading further into the castle, eyes wide with fear, darting between the King and the Professor.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Stopping you, obviously!

*Colle wields Judge's hammer, rolling his eyes. Prof Red nods towards the armored figure, fully willing to let them escape. He's only here for one person.*

We're already aware of what you're after, you bastard!

*Behind them, both Yellow Steves can see a Red Steve in a robe and one that appears to be half-bug.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one retreats, wanting absolutely nothing to do with this.*

"And what makes you think you can stop me?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red glares at him, more spores filling his gas mask.*

Because we've got way more up our sleeves than you ever will!

[the-pale-vessel]

*He takes a slow step back, eyes narrowing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He smiles creepily, his eyes wide and crazed. He removes his gas mask....*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, pulling a small book out of his pocket and very quickly flicking through it, looking for something.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He opens his mouth, sending out a cloud of spores. They gather into a mushroom-creature that spawns not far from the king. Its empty eyes stare at him with the same unsettling smile...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, whispering as he starts to read something out from the book.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red snaps his fingers, and the mushroom-beast tries to go for the book...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Right as it does, a jet of vivid gold flames shoots out from the King's hands. He drops the book.*

*he nearly loses balance as the blast pushes him back, clearly not able to control it very well.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*It does get burned. Prof. Red visibly flinches, but it turns around to bring it back to its creator. Prof Red hands the book off to Sharp before approaching the king again.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The fire stops spraying shortly after.*

*The king attempts to retreat further into the castle.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

HEY-

*Both Colle and Prof. Red run after him.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He's fast, but clearly unsteady.*

*He trips..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle immediately is on him, pointing his hammer at him. Soon Prof. Red catches up, the half-burned mushroom standing behind the king.*

End of the line, hm?

[the-pale-vessel]

*He tries to grab Colle to electrocute him..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He immediately steps back, and tries to slam his hammer into his arm.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he yelps and ducks out of the way.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mushroom tries to restrain him as Colle winds up for another hit.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He struggles, but doesn’t get away this time.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red approaches him, gas mask on again.*

Now....we have justtttttt a few questions for you, little king...

[the-pale-vessel]

"What do you want..?" *He hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Just HOW much are you planning on conquering, hmmm?

[the-pale-vessel]

"I wasn't conquering! I was simply sending a troop out to scout.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

"Scout," hm? Why would you be needing such a rigorous training regimen for scouting?

[the-pale-vessel]

"How I train my troops is none of your business.." *he hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are you or are you not planning to go "scouting out" more than the Red Kingdom?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"We're scouting a few other places, but that's all we're doing. Scouting."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

I don't believe you.

//Okay, Beef, cmon in. I gotta scare the pants off this guy.

//Alrightttttt.

[the-pale-vessel]

*he huffs,* "If i was going to conquer a kingdom, why would i go after somewhere as useless as the Red Kingdom?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Everyone in the room glares at him. Prof. Red punches him in the face as Beef comes into the room.*

We are NOT useless!

[the-pale-vessel]

"oW- I did not say the red steves are useless, I said your kingdom is!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Might as well be the same thing!

*Beef shambles over, looking downright murderous.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He starts whispering something...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

What was that?

[the-pale-vessel]

*His eyes glow as he falls silent..*

*Sharp and Colle both see a bright flash.*

*Colle gets deep blue and grey rings and patches around his neck.*

*Sharp gets purplish grey around his eyes. His eyes turn completely grey, as well..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle tries to ask what happened, but...no noise comes out. He tries to send a comm and-*

//!!!

*No words.*

*Sharp's vision goes dark. He tries to lift up his hood, and that doesn't change anything. He almost drops the King's spellbook, but Spark grabs his hands. The word out of Prof. Red's mouth makes them panic more.*

Shit.

*Beef picks up everyone but the professor, moving them out of the King's sight.*

I'm just moving you, Sharp, it's just me..

*He turns his attention back to the king, eye glaring with an intensity of a million suns.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The king takes his chance and tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Absolutely NOT.

*Beef's huge hand smacks him to the floor, voice booming across the castle halls. He snarls a little. The mushroom creature goes to look over their friends as the professor tries to come up with a solution on the fly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he hisses in pain.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef squeezes him as he clutches him in his fist.*

Are you planning on destroying the kingdoms and assimilating them into your own?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"No?! Why would you think that?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Because you're OBVIOUSLY plotting something!

*He squeezes harder...*

[the-pale-vessel]

"OW- DAMN IT, LET GO OF ME YOU FREAK!"

[the-pale-vessel]

*A little while after Time finished explaining the Yellow King's atrocities, the entire Red Elites (and, of course, the professor) took up their weapons and headed off to face him. Despite being mutated still, Spark and Beef stood as proudly as ever, Beef still carrying his shield as always. Prof. Red is wearing a gas mask, nor wanting to spread spores unless he chooses to. He leads the group.*

Hello???

*They're stopped outside the castle by a pair of heavily armed guards.*

"Stop!"

"You can't be here!"

"The king has requested no visitors."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Before the gates, the guards are faced with three Red Steves. One carrying a large hammer, one covered in mushrooms and wearing a gas mask and a lab coat, and one wearing a thick robe with the hood up. There is also one that appears to be a multicolored centipede-thing, half his face is melting...But just behind them, is a very unnerving dragon-thing with a flat, spiraled face with one eye. It's neck is springy and its arms are long. Its mouth is at its chin, baring its sharp teeth. It's at least two or three times the size of them.*

*The one in the gas mask approaches the guards. They can see the mushrooms utterly cover his face. He has an unnatural smile on his face.*

Ohhhhh, is that soooo....?

[the-pale-vessel]

*The guards give each other a nervous look.*

"Yes, we have strict orders not to let anyone in!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Wellllllllll! That just won't do! We must have clearance, rightttt?

*He cocks his head to the side, his pitch going very high the longer he speaks in a sing-song tone.*

[the-pale-vessel]

"I'm sorry, sir.. we can't let you through."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Well, we can't be having that, sir!

*He attempts to walk past them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards back off a little, a bit too scared of the Professor to actually try to stop him.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He tries to fully make his way into the kingdom.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards retreat.*

*... its eerily quiet in this part of the kingdom.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He motions for the others to come through. Most of them pass by silently, not looking at the guards. Except for Beef, who keeps his eye on them as he trudges past.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Theres a few people out and about, but strangely few.*

*Isn't the Yellow Kingdom usually very populated..?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Now that they're inside, Prof. Red drops the act. They keep to themselves, though warily eyeing the lack of citizens around them.*

//This...doesn't look right...

//Yeah. If they're going to war....where is everyone...?

//Guess we'll find out.

//Indeed.

//Keep yourselves wary. The palace might have more guards, or worse, OSHA violations.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They get the feeling their being watched..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all stay on high alert, looking around.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see faint silvery white particles..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Hmmmm...

//Might as well!

*They follow him as he goes to investigate.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They don't see anything other than the particles. Though, they're vaguely person shaped.*

*Some kind of potion, perhaps?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Who are you?

*He says this straightforward and bluntly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They step back onto the grass, which squishes down under their invisible feet.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His voice softens a little.*

We won't hurt you, I promise.

If you're looking for a way out of here, we can do that.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They... start laughing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His demeanor almost immediately changes, his eyes squinting suspiciously. He tries to grab them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They pull out a firework...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*That doesn't deter him. Beef is ready to lunge at them if they try to escape.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They set it off, letting it go off up in the air.*

*...*

*they hear footsteps.*

*many, many sets of footsteps.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef immediately turns around, flaring out his wings. The others keep their eyes on the king.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They speak.*

"Hah, you really thought it was gonna be that easy?!"

*They sound... young. Far too young to be a king...*

*They see a small army of heavily armored yellow steves starting to surround them..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Huh..?

*They fully prepare to simply teleport away if necessary. Beef growls.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They're surrounded.*

*the invisible figure tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He lets them go, more focused on keeping his friends from getting hurt.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They have a lot of weapons pointed at them right now..*

*They could try to teleport to the King's castle, or they could try to retreat.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They try to teleport to the castle.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*There's only like three or four guards there.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He sighs.*

//Everyone, please disregard that scenario for now! Miscalculation on my part!

//That much is obvious.

//Are you gonna try to freak out the guards again?

//We might not have much time...

//I shall try.

*Like last time, he goes up to the guards with a freaky smile on his face. He speaks in a sing-song voice.*

Helllooooo! Lovelyyyy day we're having, yessssss?

[the-pale-vessel]

*Unlike the first two they encountered, these ones don't falter. They don't speak. Two of them block the door with their swords.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are we going to have a problem here?

*He figured as much. Spark looks back, checking if the army is coming for them.*

//Okay then! Who wants to commit murder? :)

//I...thought we weren't doing that.

//That was a joke! Who wants to get them to move, I mean?

//Alright, move over.

*Beef approaches them...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*they aren't being chased.*

*The guards don't flinch. The two blocking the door have their faces hidden by their helmets.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Move, before I force you to.

*He speaks in a low grumble. His gloved hands are almost the same size as the guards themselves...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The two at the door don't move, but the other two start backing away.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He stares the other two down.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both look tense, but don't move..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Permission to grab?

//Permission granted. Just don't throw them.

//Noted.

*Beef goes to grab both that stand at the door..*

[the-pale-vessel]

*One goes very still, accepting fate. The other tries to stab his hand.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He grabs the one that doesn't try to stab him. Though he clutches them firmly, he doesn't squish them. His glove seems to be...uncomfortably fleshy in texture, even with the armor they can see veins on it. He quite literally just places them a bit away from the door and the group. At the same time, he tries to grab the other one.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The other one tries to stab him again.*

*The one who got moved just awkwardly stands there, like they're surprised by still being alive.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He still grabs them, even if he gets stabbed a little. When they do, the blade seems to go through the glove like flesh, not fabric...He only half-flinches, moving them a little further away before letting them go. Spark awkwardly shrugs towards the one that got moved first.*

*When the guards are moved, they immediately head inside, Beef blocking the door so they can't follow.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They enter into the throne room. It seems empty...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red keeps an eye out for any traps...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He doesn't see any.*

*He hears talking in the next room. He can't tell what they're saying, but they sound smug.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Everyone stay quiet. Colle, Sharp, stay with me. Spark, Beef, stay here. We'll try to get a look.

//Okay...

*The three of them creep closer, glancing into the next room.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see the king, along with a yellow steve wearing iron armor with decorative horns and spikes on it.*

"How is the training coming along?"

"They should be ready by tonight, your highness.."

*The armored one sounds... tired.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all duck out of sight when they see a second person. That armor looks tough...Beef's hand still slightly bleeds, Prof. Red doesn't want him hurting himself...maybe they should listen longer...?*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one speaks hesitantly, a faint hint of fear in his tone,*

"Are you... absolutely sure about this your highness?"

"Yes! Are you questioning me?"

"N-no, sir.. it's just... the Red Kingdom has never been this.. quiet. It's suspicious.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mention of their kingdom makes everyone recoil. Sharp and and Colle look at the professor.*

//Okay. I'm going the fuck in. Colle, back me up. Beef, stay hidden til we call for you. Sharp, Spark, stay behind us but not too close. We don't know what they're capable of...

//Understood.

//O-Okay!

//Alright, I got your back.

//Good luck.

*Prof. Red takes a deep breath, spores clearly spitting out into the gas mask. He stretches his mushroom-arms before sprinting into the room.*

Hey! That's MY kingdom!

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both jump, the armored one pulling out a spear.*

"What do you think you're doing here?!"

*The armored one starts slowly backing towards a door leading further into the castle, eyes wide with fear, darting between the King and the Professor.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Stopping you, obviously!

*Colle wields Judge's hammer, rolling his eyes. Prof Red nods towards the armored figure, fully willing to let them escape. He's only here for one person.*

We're already aware of what you're after, you bastard!

*Behind them, both Yellow Steves can see a Red Steve in a robe and one that appears to be half-bug.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one retreats, wanting absolutely nothing to do with this.*

"And what makes you think you can stop me?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red glares at him, more spores filling his gas mask.*

Because we've got way more up our sleeves than you ever will!

[the-pale-vessel]

*He takes a slow step back, eyes narrowing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He smiles creepily, his eyes wide and crazed. He removes his gas mask....*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, pulling a small book out of his pocket and very quickly flicking through it, looking for something.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He opens his mouth, sending out a cloud of spores. They gather into a mushroom-creature that spawns not far from the king. Its empty eyes stare at him with the same unsettling smile...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, whispering as he starts to read something out from the book.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red snaps his fingers, and the mushroom-beast tries to go for the book...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Right as it does, a jet of vivid gold flames shoots out from the King's hands. He drops the book.*

*he nearly loses balance as the blast pushes him back, clearly not able to control it very well.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*It does get burned. Prof. Red visibly flinches, but it turns around to bring it back to its creator. Prof Red hands the book off to Sharp before approaching the king again.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The fire stops spraying shortly after.*

*The king attempts to retreat further into the castle.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

HEY-

*Both Colle and Prof. Red run after him.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He's fast, but clearly unsteady.*

*He trips..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle immediately is on him, pointing his hammer at him. Soon Prof. Red catches up, the half-burned mushroom standing behind the king.*

End of the line, hm?

[the-pale-vessel]

*He tries to grab Colle to electrocute him..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He immediately steps back, and tries to slam his hammer into his arm.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he yelps and ducks out of the way.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mushroom tries to restrain him as Colle winds up for another hit.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He struggles, but doesn’t get away this time.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red approaches him, gas mask on again.*

Now....we have justtttttt a few questions for you, little king...

[the-pale-vessel]

"What do you want..?" *He hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Just HOW much are you planning on conquering, hmmm?

[the-pale-vessel]

"I wasn't conquering! I was simply sending a troop out to scout.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

"Scout," hm? Why would you be needing such a rigorous training regimen for scouting?

[the-pale-vessel]

"How I train my troops is none of your business.." *he hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are you or are you not planning to go "scouting out" more than the Red Kingdom?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"We're scouting a few other places, but that's all we're doing. Scouting."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

I don't believe you.

//Okay, Beef, cmon in. I gotta scare the pants off this guy.

//Alrightttttt.

[the-pale-vessel]

*he huffs,* "If i was going to conquer a kingdom, why would i go after somewhere as useless as the Red Kingdom?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Everyone in the room glares at him. Prof. Red punches him in the face as Beef comes into the room.*

We are NOT useless!

[the-pale-vessel]

"oW- I did not say the red steves are useless, I said your kingdom is!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Might as well be the same thing!

*Beef shambles over, looking downright murderous.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He starts whispering something...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

What was that?

[the-pale-vessel]

*His eyes glow as he falls silent..*

*Sharp and Colle both see a bright flash.*

*Colle gets deep blue and grey rings and patches around his neck.*

*Sharp gets purplish grey around his eyes. His eyes turn completely grey, as well..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle tries to ask what happened, but...no noise comes out. He tries to send a comm and-*

//!!!

*No words.*

*Sharp's vision goes dark. He tries to lift up his hood, and that doesn't change anything. He almost drops the King's spellbook, but Spark grabs his hands. The word out of Prof. Red's mouth makes them panic more.*

Shit.

*Beef picks up everyone but the professor, moving them out of the King's sight.*

I'm just moving you, Sharp, it's just me..

*He turns his attention back to the king, eye glaring with an intensity of a million suns.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The king takes his chance and tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Absolutely NOT.

*Beef's huge hand smacks him to the floor, voice booming across the castle halls. He snarls a little. The mushroom creature goes to look over their friends as the professor tries to come up with a solution on the fly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he hisses in pain.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef squeezes him as he clutches him in his fist.*

Are you planning on destroying the kingdoms and assimilating them into your own?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"No?! Why would you think that?!"

[the-pale-vessel]

*A little while after Time finished explaining the Yellow King's atrocities, the entire Red Elites (and, of course, the professor) took up their weapons and headed off to face him. Despite being mutated still, Spark and Beef stood as proudly as ever, Beef still carrying his shield as always. Prof. Red is wearing a gas mask, nor wanting to spread spores unless he chooses to. He leads the group.*

Hello???

*They're stopped outside the castle by a pair of heavily armed guards.*

"Stop!"

"You can't be here!"

"The king has requested no visitors."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Before the gates, the guards are faced with three Red Steves. One carrying a large hammer, one covered in mushrooms and wearing a gas mask and a lab coat, and one wearing a thick robe with the hood up. There is also one that appears to be a multicolored centipede-thing, half his face is melting...But just behind them, is a very unnerving dragon-thing with a flat, spiraled face with one eye. It's neck is springy and its arms are long. Its mouth is at its chin, baring its sharp teeth. It's at least two or three times the size of them.*

*The one in the gas mask approaches the guards. They can see the mushrooms utterly cover his face. He has an unnatural smile on his face.*

Ohhhhh, is that soooo....?

[the-pale-vessel]

*The guards give each other a nervous look.*

"Yes, we have strict orders not to let anyone in!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Wellllllllll! That just won't do! We must have clearance, rightttt?

*He cocks his head to the side, his pitch going very high the longer he speaks in a sing-song tone.*

[the-pale-vessel]

"I'm sorry, sir.. we can't let you through."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Well, we can't be having that, sir!

*He attempts to walk past them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards back off a little, a bit too scared of the Professor to actually try to stop him.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He tries to fully make his way into the kingdom.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards retreat.*

*... its eerily quiet in this part of the kingdom.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He motions for the others to come through. Most of them pass by silently, not looking at the guards. Except for Beef, who keeps his eye on them as he trudges past.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Theres a few people out and about, but strangely few.*

*Isn't the Yellow Kingdom usually very populated..?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Now that they're inside, Prof. Red drops the act. They keep to themselves, though warily eyeing the lack of citizens around them.*

//This...doesn't look right...

//Yeah. If they're going to war....where is everyone...?

//Guess we'll find out.

//Indeed.

//Keep yourselves wary. The palace might have more guards, or worse, OSHA violations.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They get the feeling their being watched..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all stay on high alert, looking around.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see faint silvery white particles..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Hmmmm...

//Might as well!

*They follow him as he goes to investigate.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They don't see anything other than the particles. Though, they're vaguely person shaped.*

*Some kind of potion, perhaps?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Who are you?

*He says this straightforward and bluntly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They step back onto the grass, which squishes down under their invisible feet.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His voice softens a little.*

We won't hurt you, I promise.

If you're looking for a way out of here, we can do that.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They... start laughing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His demeanor almost immediately changes, his eyes squinting suspiciously. He tries to grab them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They pull out a firework...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*That doesn't deter him. Beef is ready to lunge at them if they try to escape.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They set it off, letting it go off up in the air.*

*...*

*they hear footsteps.*

*many, many sets of footsteps.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef immediately turns around, flaring out his wings. The others keep their eyes on the king.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They speak.*

"Hah, you really thought it was gonna be that easy?!"

*They sound... young. Far too young to be a king...*

*They see a small army of heavily armored yellow steves starting to surround them..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Huh..?

*They fully prepare to simply teleport away if necessary. Beef growls.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They're surrounded.*

*the invisible figure tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He lets them go, more focused on keeping his friends from getting hurt.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They have a lot of weapons pointed at them right now..*

*They could try to teleport to the King's castle, or they could try to retreat.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They try to teleport to the castle.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*There's only like three or four guards there.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He sighs.*

//Everyone, please disregard that scenario for now! Miscalculation on my part!

//That much is obvious.

//Are you gonna try to freak out the guards again?

//We might not have much time...

//I shall try.

*Like last time, he goes up to the guards with a freaky smile on his face. He speaks in a sing-song voice.*

Helllooooo! Lovelyyyy day we're having, yessssss?

[the-pale-vessel]

*Unlike the first two they encountered, these ones don't falter. They don't speak. Two of them block the door with their swords.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are we going to have a problem here?

*He figured as much. Spark looks back, checking if the army is coming for them.*

//Okay then! Who wants to commit murder? :)

//I...thought we weren't doing that.

//That was a joke! Who wants to get them to move, I mean?

//Alright, move over.

*Beef approaches them...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*they aren't being chased.*

*The guards don't flinch. The two blocking the door have their faces hidden by their helmets.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Move, before I force you to.

*He speaks in a low grumble. His gloved hands are almost the same size as the guards themselves...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The two at the door don't move, but the other two start backing away.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He stares the other two down.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both look tense, but don't move..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Permission to grab?

//Permission granted. Just don't throw them.

//Noted.

*Beef goes to grab both that stand at the door..*

[the-pale-vessel]

*One goes very still, accepting fate. The other tries to stab his hand.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He grabs the one that doesn't try to stab him. Though he clutches them firmly, he doesn't squish them. His glove seems to be...uncomfortably fleshy in texture, even with the armor they can see veins on it. He quite literally just places them a bit away from the door and the group. At the same time, he tries to grab the other one.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The other one tries to stab him again.*

*The one who got moved just awkwardly stands there, like they're surprised by still being alive.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He still grabs them, even if he gets stabbed a little. When they do, the blade seems to go through the glove like flesh, not fabric...He only half-flinches, moving them a little further away before letting them go. Spark awkwardly shrugs towards the one that got moved first.*

*When the guards are moved, they immediately head inside, Beef blocking the door so they can't follow.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They enter into the throne room. It seems empty...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red keeps an eye out for any traps...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He doesn't see any.*

*He hears talking in the next room. He can't tell what they're saying, but they sound smug.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Everyone stay quiet. Colle, Sharp, stay with me. Spark, Beef, stay here. We'll try to get a look.

//Okay...

*The three of them creep closer, glancing into the next room.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see the king, along with a yellow steve wearing iron armor with decorative horns and spikes on it.*

"How is the training coming along?"

"They should be ready by tonight, your highness.."

*The armored one sounds... tired.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all duck out of sight when they see a second person. That armor looks tough...Beef's hand still slightly bleeds, Prof. Red doesn't want him hurting himself...maybe they should listen longer...?*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one speaks hesitantly, a faint hint of fear in his tone,*

"Are you... absolutely sure about this your highness?"

"Yes! Are you questioning me?"

"N-no, sir.. it's just... the Red Kingdom has never been this.. quiet. It's suspicious.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mention of their kingdom makes everyone recoil. Sharp and and Colle look at the professor.*

//Okay. I'm going the fuck in. Colle, back me up. Beef, stay hidden til we call for you. Sharp, Spark, stay behind us but not too close. We don't know what they're capable of...

//Understood.

//O-Okay!

//Alright, I got your back.

//Good luck.

*Prof. Red takes a deep breath, spores clearly spitting out into the gas mask. He stretches his mushroom-arms before sprinting into the room.*

Hey! That's MY kingdom!

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both jump, the armored one pulling out a spear.*

"What do you think you're doing here?!"

*The armored one starts slowly backing towards a door leading further into the castle, eyes wide with fear, darting between the King and the Professor.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Stopping you, obviously!

*Colle wields Judge's hammer, rolling his eyes. Prof Red nods towards the armored figure, fully willing to let them escape. He's only here for one person.*

We're already aware of what you're after, you bastard!

*Behind them, both Yellow Steves can see a Red Steve in a robe and one that appears to be half-bug.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one retreats, wanting absolutely nothing to do with this.*

"And what makes you think you can stop me?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red glares at him, more spores filling his gas mask.*

Because we've got way more up our sleeves than you ever will!

[the-pale-vessel]

*He takes a slow step back, eyes narrowing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He smiles creepily, his eyes wide and crazed. He removes his gas mask....*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, pulling a small book out of his pocket and very quickly flicking through it, looking for something.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He opens his mouth, sending out a cloud of spores. They gather into a mushroom-creature that spawns not far from the king. Its empty eyes stare at him with the same unsettling smile...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, whispering as he starts to read something out from the book.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red snaps his fingers, and the mushroom-beast tries to go for the book...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Right as it does, a jet of vivid gold flames shoots out from the King's hands. He drops the book.*

*he nearly loses balance as the blast pushes him back, clearly not able to control it very well.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*It does get burned. Prof. Red visibly flinches, but it turns around to bring it back to its creator. Prof Red hands the book off to Sharp before approaching the king again.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The fire stops spraying shortly after.*

*The king attempts to retreat further into the castle.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

HEY-

*Both Colle and Prof. Red run after him.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He's fast, but clearly unsteady.*

*He trips..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle immediately is on him, pointing his hammer at him. Soon Prof. Red catches up, the half-burned mushroom standing behind the king.*

End of the line, hm?

[the-pale-vessel]

*He tries to grab Colle to electrocute him..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He immediately steps back, and tries to slam his hammer into his arm.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he yelps and ducks out of the way.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mushroom tries to restrain him as Colle winds up for another hit.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He struggles, but doesn’t get away this time.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red approaches him, gas mask on again.*

Now....we have justtttttt a few questions for you, little king...

[the-pale-vessel]

"What do you want..?" *He hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Just HOW much are you planning on conquering, hmmm?

[the-pale-vessel]

"I wasn't conquering! I was simply sending a troop out to scout.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

"Scout," hm? Why would you be needing such a rigorous training regimen for scouting?

[the-pale-vessel]

"How I train my troops is none of your business.." *he hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are you or are you not planning to go "scouting out" more than the Red Kingdom?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"We're scouting a few other places, but that's all we're doing. Scouting."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

I don't believe you.

//Okay, Beef, cmon in. I gotta scare the pants off this guy.

//Alrightttttt.

[the-pale-vessel]

*he huffs,* "If i was going to conquer a kingdom, why would i go after somewhere as useless as the Red Kingdom?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Everyone in the room glares at him. Prof. Red punches him in the face as Beef comes into the room.*

We are NOT useless!

[the-pale-vessel]

"oW- I did not say the red steves are useless, I said your kingdom is!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Might as well be the same thing!

*Beef shambles over, looking downright murderous.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He starts whispering something...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

What was that?

[the-pale-vessel]

*His eyes glow as he falls silent..*

*Sharp and Colle both see a bright flash.*

*Colle gets deep blue and grey rings and patches around his neck.*

*Sharp gets purplish grey around his eyes. His eyes turn completely grey, as well..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle tries to ask what happened, but...no noise comes out. He tries to send a comm and-*

//!!!

*No words.*

*Sharp's vision goes dark. He tries to lift up his hood, and that doesn't change anything. He almost drops the King's spellbook, but Spark grabs his hands. The word out of Prof. Red's mouth makes them panic more.*

Shit.

*Beef picks up everyone but the professor, moving them out of the King's sight.*

I'm just moving you, Sharp, it's just me..

*He turns his attention back to the king, eye glaring with an intensity of a million suns.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The king takes his chance and tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Absolutely NOT.

*Beef's huge hand smacks him to the floor, voice booming across the castle halls. He snarls a little. The mushroom creature goes to look over their friends as the professor tries to come up with a solution on the fly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he hisses in pain.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*A little while after Time finished explaining the Yellow King's atrocities, the entire Red Elites (and, of course, the professor) took up their weapons and headed off to face him. Despite being mutated still, Spark and Beef stood as proudly as ever, Beef still carrying his shield as always. Prof. Red is wearing a gas mask, nor wanting to spread spores unless he chooses to. He leads the group.*

Hello???

*They're stopped outside the castle by a pair of heavily armed guards.*

"Stop!"

"You can't be here!"

"The king has requested no visitors."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Before the gates, the guards are faced with three Red Steves. One carrying a large hammer, one covered in mushrooms and wearing a gas mask and a lab coat, and one wearing a thick robe with the hood up. There is also one that appears to be a multicolored centipede-thing, half his face is melting...But just behind them, is a very unnerving dragon-thing with a flat, spiraled face with one eye. It's neck is springy and its arms are long. Its mouth is at its chin, baring its sharp teeth. It's at least two or three times the size of them.*

*The one in the gas mask approaches the guards. They can see the mushrooms utterly cover his face. He has an unnatural smile on his face.*

Ohhhhh, is that soooo....?

[the-pale-vessel]

*The guards give each other a nervous look.*

"Yes, we have strict orders not to let anyone in!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Wellllllllll! That just won't do! We must have clearance, rightttt?

*He cocks his head to the side, his pitch going very high the longer he speaks in a sing-song tone.*

[the-pale-vessel]

"I'm sorry, sir.. we can't let you through."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Well, we can't be having that, sir!

*He attempts to walk past them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards back off a little, a bit too scared of the Professor to actually try to stop him.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He tries to fully make his way into the kingdom.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards retreat.*

*... its eerily quiet in this part of the kingdom.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He motions for the others to come through. Most of them pass by silently, not looking at the guards. Except for Beef, who keeps his eye on them as he trudges past.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Theres a few people out and about, but strangely few.*

*Isn't the Yellow Kingdom usually very populated..?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Now that they're inside, Prof. Red drops the act. They keep to themselves, though warily eyeing the lack of citizens around them.*

//This...doesn't look right...

//Yeah. If they're going to war....where is everyone...?

//Guess we'll find out.

//Indeed.

//Keep yourselves wary. The palace might have more guards, or worse, OSHA violations.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They get the feeling their being watched..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all stay on high alert, looking around.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see faint silvery white particles..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Hmmmm...

//Might as well!

*They follow him as he goes to investigate.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They don't see anything other than the particles. Though, they're vaguely person shaped.*

*Some kind of potion, perhaps?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Who are you?

*He says this straightforward and bluntly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They step back onto the grass, which squishes down under their invisible feet.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His voice softens a little.*

We won't hurt you, I promise.

If you're looking for a way out of here, we can do that.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They... start laughing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His demeanor almost immediately changes, his eyes squinting suspiciously. He tries to grab them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They pull out a firework...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*That doesn't deter him. Beef is ready to lunge at them if they try to escape.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They set it off, letting it go off up in the air.*

*...*

*they hear footsteps.*

*many, many sets of footsteps.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef immediately turns around, flaring out his wings. The others keep their eyes on the king.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They speak.*

"Hah, you really thought it was gonna be that easy?!"

*They sound... young. Far too young to be a king...*

*They see a small army of heavily armored yellow steves starting to surround them..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Huh..?

*They fully prepare to simply teleport away if necessary. Beef growls.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They're surrounded.*

*the invisible figure tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He lets them go, more focused on keeping his friends from getting hurt.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They have a lot of weapons pointed at them right now..*

*They could try to teleport to the King's castle, or they could try to retreat.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They try to teleport to the castle.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*There's only like three or four guards there.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He sighs.*

//Everyone, please disregard that scenario for now! Miscalculation on my part!

//That much is obvious.

//Are you gonna try to freak out the guards again?

//We might not have much time...

//I shall try.

*Like last time, he goes up to the guards with a freaky smile on his face. He speaks in a sing-song voice.*

Helllooooo! Lovelyyyy day we're having, yessssss?

[the-pale-vessel]

*Unlike the first two they encountered, these ones don't falter. They don't speak. Two of them block the door with their swords.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are we going to have a problem here?

*He figured as much. Spark looks back, checking if the army is coming for them.*

//Okay then! Who wants to commit murder? :)

//I...thought we weren't doing that.

//That was a joke! Who wants to get them to move, I mean?

//Alright, move over.

*Beef approaches them...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*they aren't being chased.*

*The guards don't flinch. The two blocking the door have their faces hidden by their helmets.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Move, before I force you to.

*He speaks in a low grumble. His gloved hands are almost the same size as the guards themselves...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The two at the door don't move, but the other two start backing away.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He stares the other two down.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both look tense, but don't move..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Permission to grab?

//Permission granted. Just don't throw them.

//Noted.

*Beef goes to grab both that stand at the door..*

[the-pale-vessel]

*One goes very still, accepting fate. The other tries to stab his hand.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He grabs the one that doesn't try to stab him. Though he clutches them firmly, he doesn't squish them. His glove seems to be...uncomfortably fleshy in texture, even with the armor they can see veins on it. He quite literally just places them a bit away from the door and the group. At the same time, he tries to grab the other one.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The other one tries to stab him again.*

*The one who got moved just awkwardly stands there, like they're surprised by still being alive.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He still grabs them, even if he gets stabbed a little. When they do, the blade seems to go through the glove like flesh, not fabric...He only half-flinches, moving them a little further away before letting them go. Spark awkwardly shrugs towards the one that got moved first.*

*When the guards are moved, they immediately head inside, Beef blocking the door so they can't follow.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They enter into the throne room. It seems empty...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red keeps an eye out for any traps...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He doesn't see any.*

*He hears talking in the next room. He can't tell what they're saying, but they sound smug.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Everyone stay quiet. Colle, Sharp, stay with me. Spark, Beef, stay here. We'll try to get a look.

//Okay...

*The three of them creep closer, glancing into the next room.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see the king, along with a yellow steve wearing iron armor with decorative horns and spikes on it.*

"How is the training coming along?"

"They should be ready by tonight, your highness.."

*The armored one sounds... tired.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all duck out of sight when they see a second person. That armor looks tough...Beef's hand still slightly bleeds, Prof. Red doesn't want him hurting himself...maybe they should listen longer...?*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one speaks hesitantly, a faint hint of fear in his tone,*

"Are you... absolutely sure about this your highness?"

"Yes! Are you questioning me?"

"N-no, sir.. it's just... the Red Kingdom has never been this.. quiet. It's suspicious.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mention of their kingdom makes everyone recoil. Sharp and and Colle look at the professor.*

//Okay. I'm going the fuck in. Colle, back me up. Beef, stay hidden til we call for you. Sharp, Spark, stay behind us but not too close. We don't know what they're capable of...

//Understood.

//O-Okay!

//Alright, I got your back.

//Good luck.

*Prof. Red takes a deep breath, spores clearly spitting out into the gas mask. He stretches his mushroom-arms before sprinting into the room.*

Hey! That's MY kingdom!

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both jump, the armored one pulling out a spear.*

"What do you think you're doing here?!"

*The armored one starts slowly backing towards a door leading further into the castle, eyes wide with fear, darting between the King and the Professor.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Stopping you, obviously!

*Colle wields Judge's hammer, rolling his eyes. Prof Red nods towards the armored figure, fully willing to let them escape. He's only here for one person.*

We're already aware of what you're after, you bastard!

*Behind them, both Yellow Steves can see a Red Steve in a robe and one that appears to be half-bug.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one retreats, wanting absolutely nothing to do with this.*

"And what makes you think you can stop me?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red glares at him, more spores filling his gas mask.*

Because we've got way more up our sleeves than you ever will!

[the-pale-vessel]

*He takes a slow step back, eyes narrowing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He smiles creepily, his eyes wide and crazed. He removes his gas mask....*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, pulling a small book out of his pocket and very quickly flicking through it, looking for something.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He opens his mouth, sending out a cloud of spores. They gather into a mushroom-creature that spawns not far from the king. Its empty eyes stare at him with the same unsettling smile...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, whispering as he starts to read something out from the book.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red snaps his fingers, and the mushroom-beast tries to go for the book...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Right as it does, a jet of vivid gold flames shoots out from the King's hands. He drops the book.*

*he nearly loses balance as the blast pushes him back, clearly not able to control it very well.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*It does get burned. Prof. Red visibly flinches, but it turns around to bring it back to its creator. Prof Red hands the book off to Sharp before approaching the king again.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The fire stops spraying shortly after.*

*The king attempts to retreat further into the castle.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

HEY-

*Both Colle and Prof. Red run after him.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He's fast, but clearly unsteady.*

*He trips..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle immediately is on him, pointing his hammer at him. Soon Prof. Red catches up, the half-burned mushroom standing behind the king.*

End of the line, hm?

[the-pale-vessel]

*He tries to grab Colle to electrocute him..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He immediately steps back, and tries to slam his hammer into his arm.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he yelps and ducks out of the way.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mushroom tries to restrain him as Colle winds up for another hit.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He struggles, but doesn’t get away this time.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red approaches him, gas mask on again.*

Now....we have justtttttt a few questions for you, little king...

[the-pale-vessel]

"What do you want..?" *He hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Just HOW much are you planning on conquering, hmmm?

[the-pale-vessel]

"I wasn't conquering! I was simply sending a troop out to scout.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

"Scout," hm? Why would you be needing such a rigorous training regimen for scouting?

[the-pale-vessel]

"How I train my troops is none of your business.." *he hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are you or are you not planning to go "scouting out" more than the Red Kingdom?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"We're scouting a few other places, but that's all we're doing. Scouting."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

I don't believe you.

//Okay, Beef, cmon in. I gotta scare the pants off this guy.

//Alrightttttt.

[the-pale-vessel]

*he huffs,* "If i was going to conquer a kingdom, why would i go after somewhere as useless as the Red Kingdom?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Everyone in the room glares at him. Prof. Red punches him in the face as Beef comes into the room.*

We are NOT useless!

[the-pale-vessel]

"oW- I did not say the red steves are useless, I said your kingdom is!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Might as well be the same thing!

*Beef shambles over, looking downright murderous.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He starts whispering something...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

What was that?

[the-pale-vessel]

*His eyes glow as he falls silent..*

*Sharp and Colle both see a bright flash.*

*Colle gets deep blue and grey rings and patches around his neck.*

*Sharp gets purplish grey around his eyes. His eyes turn completely grey, as well..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle tries to ask what happened, but...no noise comes out. He tries to send a comm and-*

//!!!

*No words.*

*Sharp's vision goes dark. He tries to lift up his hood, and that doesn't change anything. He almost drops the King's spellbook, but Spark grabs his hands. The word out of Prof. Red's mouth makes them panic more.*

Shit.

*Beef picks up everyone but the professor, moving them out of the King's sight.*

I'm just moving you, Sharp, it's just me..

*He turns his attention back to the king, eye glaring with an intensity of a million suns.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The king takes his chance and tries to run.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*A little while after Time finished explaining the Yellow King's atrocities, the entire Red Elites (and, of course, the professor) took up their weapons and headed off to face him. Despite being mutated still, Spark and Beef stood as proudly as ever, Beef still carrying his shield as always. Prof. Red is wearing a gas mask, nor wanting to spread spores unless he chooses to. He leads the group.*

Hello???

*They're stopped outside the castle by a pair of heavily armed guards.*

"Stop!"

"You can't be here!"

"The king has requested no visitors."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Before the gates, the guards are faced with three Red Steves. One carrying a large hammer, one covered in mushrooms and wearing a gas mask and a lab coat, and one wearing a thick robe with the hood up. There is also one that appears to be a multicolored centipede-thing, half his face is melting...But just behind them, is a very unnerving dragon-thing with a flat, spiraled face with one eye. It's neck is springy and its arms are long. Its mouth is at its chin, baring its sharp teeth. It's at least two or three times the size of them.*

*The one in the gas mask approaches the guards. They can see the mushrooms utterly cover his face. He has an unnatural smile on his face.*

Ohhhhh, is that soooo....?

[the-pale-vessel]

*The guards give each other a nervous look.*

"Yes, we have strict orders not to let anyone in!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Wellllllllll! That just won't do! We must have clearance, rightttt?

*He cocks his head to the side, his pitch going very high the longer he speaks in a sing-song tone.*

[the-pale-vessel]

"I'm sorry, sir.. we can't let you through."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Well, we can't be having that, sir!

*He attempts to walk past them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards back off a little, a bit too scared of the Professor to actually try to stop him.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He tries to fully make his way into the kingdom.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards retreat.*

*... its eerily quiet in this part of the kingdom.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He motions for the others to come through. Most of them pass by silently, not looking at the guards. Except for Beef, who keeps his eye on them as he trudges past.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Theres a few people out and about, but strangely few.*

*Isn't the Yellow Kingdom usually very populated..?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Now that they're inside, Prof. Red drops the act. They keep to themselves, though warily eyeing the lack of citizens around them.*

//This...doesn't look right...

//Yeah. If they're going to war....where is everyone...?

//Guess we'll find out.

//Indeed.

//Keep yourselves wary. The palace might have more guards, or worse, OSHA violations.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They get the feeling their being watched..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all stay on high alert, looking around.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see faint silvery white particles..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Hmmmm...

//Might as well!

*They follow him as he goes to investigate.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They don't see anything other than the particles. Though, they're vaguely person shaped.*

*Some kind of potion, perhaps?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Who are you?

*He says this straightforward and bluntly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They step back onto the grass, which squishes down under their invisible feet.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His voice softens a little.*

We won't hurt you, I promise.

If you're looking for a way out of here, we can do that.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They... start laughing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His demeanor almost immediately changes, his eyes squinting suspiciously. He tries to grab them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They pull out a firework...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*That doesn't deter him. Beef is ready to lunge at them if they try to escape.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They set it off, letting it go off up in the air.*

*...*

*they hear footsteps.*

*many, many sets of footsteps.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef immediately turns around, flaring out his wings. The others keep their eyes on the king.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They speak.*

"Hah, you really thought it was gonna be that easy?!"

*They sound... young. Far too young to be a king...*

*They see a small army of heavily armored yellow steves starting to surround them..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Huh..?

*They fully prepare to simply teleport away if necessary. Beef growls.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They're surrounded.*

*the invisible figure tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He lets them go, more focused on keeping his friends from getting hurt.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They have a lot of weapons pointed at them right now..*

*They could try to teleport to the King's castle, or they could try to retreat.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They try to teleport to the castle.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*There's only like three or four guards there.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He sighs.*

//Everyone, please disregard that scenario for now! Miscalculation on my part!

//That much is obvious.

//Are you gonna try to freak out the guards again?

//We might not have much time...

//I shall try.

*Like last time, he goes up to the guards with a freaky smile on his face. He speaks in a sing-song voice.*

Helllooooo! Lovelyyyy day we're having, yessssss?

[the-pale-vessel]

*Unlike the first two they encountered, these ones don't falter. They don't speak. Two of them block the door with their swords.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are we going to have a problem here?

*He figured as much. Spark looks back, checking if the army is coming for them.*

//Okay then! Who wants to commit murder? :)

//I...thought we weren't doing that.

//That was a joke! Who wants to get them to move, I mean?

//Alright, move over.

*Beef approaches them...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*they aren't being chased.*

*The guards don't flinch. The two blocking the door have their faces hidden by their helmets.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Move, before I force you to.

*He speaks in a low grumble. His gloved hands are almost the same size as the guards themselves...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The two at the door don't move, but the other two start backing away.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He stares the other two down.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both look tense, but don't move..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Permission to grab?

//Permission granted. Just don't throw them.

//Noted.

*Beef goes to grab both that stand at the door..*

[the-pale-vessel]

*One goes very still, accepting fate. The other tries to stab his hand.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He grabs the one that doesn't try to stab him. Though he clutches them firmly, he doesn't squish them. His glove seems to be...uncomfortably fleshy in texture, even with the armor they can see veins on it. He quite literally just places them a bit away from the door and the group. At the same time, he tries to grab the other one.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The other one tries to stab him again.*

*The one who got moved just awkwardly stands there, like they're surprised by still being alive.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He still grabs them, even if he gets stabbed a little. When they do, the blade seems to go through the glove like flesh, not fabric...He only half-flinches, moving them a little further away before letting them go. Spark awkwardly shrugs towards the one that got moved first.*

*When the guards are moved, they immediately head inside, Beef blocking the door so they can't follow.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They enter into the throne room. It seems empty...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red keeps an eye out for any traps...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He doesn't see any.*

*He hears talking in the next room. He can't tell what they're saying, but they sound smug.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Everyone stay quiet. Colle, Sharp, stay with me. Spark, Beef, stay here. We'll try to get a look.

//Okay...

*The three of them creep closer, glancing into the next room.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see the king, along with a yellow steve wearing iron armor with decorative horns and spikes on it.*

"How is the training coming along?"

"They should be ready by tonight, your highness.."

*The armored one sounds... tired.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all duck out of sight when they see a second person. That armor looks tough...Beef's hand still slightly bleeds, Prof. Red doesn't want him hurting himself...maybe they should listen longer...?*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one speaks hesitantly, a faint hint of fear in his tone,*

"Are you... absolutely sure about this your highness?"

"Yes! Are you questioning me?"

"N-no, sir.. it's just... the Red Kingdom has never been this.. quiet. It's suspicious.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mention of their kingdom makes everyone recoil. Sharp and and Colle look at the professor.*

//Okay. I'm going the fuck in. Colle, back me up. Beef, stay hidden til we call for you. Sharp, Spark, stay behind us but not too close. We don't know what they're capable of...

//Understood.

//O-Okay!

//Alright, I got your back.

//Good luck.

*Prof. Red takes a deep breath, spores clearly spitting out into the gas mask. He stretches his mushroom-arms before sprinting into the room.*

Hey! That's MY kingdom!

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both jump, the armored one pulling out a spear.*

"What do you think you're doing here?!"

*The armored one starts slowly backing towards a door leading further into the castle, eyes wide with fear, darting between the King and the Professor.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Stopping you, obviously!

*Colle wields Judge's hammer, rolling his eyes. Prof Red nods towards the armored figure, fully willing to let them escape. He's only here for one person.*

We're already aware of what you're after, you bastard!

*Behind them, both Yellow Steves can see a Red Steve in a robe and one that appears to be half-bug.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one retreats, wanting absolutely nothing to do with this.*

"And what makes you think you can stop me?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red glares at him, more spores filling his gas mask.*

Because we've got way more up our sleeves than you ever will!

[the-pale-vessel]

*He takes a slow step back, eyes narrowing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He smiles creepily, his eyes wide and crazed. He removes his gas mask....*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, pulling a small book out of his pocket and very quickly flicking through it, looking for something.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He opens his mouth, sending out a cloud of spores. They gather into a mushroom-creature that spawns not far from the king. Its empty eyes stare at him with the same unsettling smile...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, whispering as he starts to read something out from the book.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red snaps his fingers, and the mushroom-beast tries to go for the book...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Right as it does, a jet of vivid gold flames shoots out from the King's hands. He drops the book.*

*he nearly loses balance as the blast pushes him back, clearly not able to control it very well.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*It does get burned. Prof. Red visibly flinches, but it turns around to bring it back to its creator. Prof Red hands the book off to Sharp before approaching the king again.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The fire stops spraying shortly after.*

*The king attempts to retreat further into the castle.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

HEY-

*Both Colle and Prof. Red run after him.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He's fast, but clearly unsteady.*

*He trips..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle immediately is on him, pointing his hammer at him. Soon Prof. Red catches up, the half-burned mushroom standing behind the king.*

End of the line, hm?

[the-pale-vessel]

*He tries to grab Colle to electrocute him..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He immediately steps back, and tries to slam his hammer into his arm.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he yelps and ducks out of the way.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mushroom tries to restrain him as Colle winds up for another hit.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He struggles, but doesn’t get away this time.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red approaches him, gas mask on again.*

Now....we have justtttttt a few questions for you, little king...

[the-pale-vessel]

"What do you want..?" *He hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Just HOW much are you planning on conquering, hmmm?

[the-pale-vessel]

"I wasn't conquering! I was simply sending a troop out to scout.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

"Scout," hm? Why would you be needing such a rigorous training regimen for scouting?

[the-pale-vessel]

"How I train my troops is none of your business.." *he hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are you or are you not planning to go "scouting out" more than the Red Kingdom?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"We're scouting a few other places, but that's all we're doing. Scouting."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

I don't believe you.

//Okay, Beef, cmon in. I gotta scare the pants off this guy.

//Alrightttttt.

[the-pale-vessel]

*he huffs,* "If i was going to conquer a kingdom, why would i go after somewhere as useless as the Red Kingdom?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Everyone in the room glares at him. Prof. Red punches him in the face as Beef comes into the room.*

We are NOT useless!

[the-pale-vessel]

"oW- I did not say the red steves are useless, I said your kingdom is!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Might as well be the same thing!

*Beef shambles over, looking downright murderous.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He starts whispering something...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

What was that?

[the-pale-vessel]

*His eyes glow as he falls silent..*

*Sharp and Colle both see a bright flash.*

*Colle gets deep blue and grey rings and patches around his neck.*

*Sharp gets purplish grey around his eyes. His eyes turn completely grey, as well..*

[the-pale-vessel]

*A little while after Time finished explaining the Yellow King's atrocities, the entire Red Elites (and, of course, the professor) took up their weapons and headed off to face him. Despite being mutated still, Spark and Beef stood as proudly as ever, Beef still carrying his shield as always. Prof. Red is wearing a gas mask, nor wanting to spread spores unless he chooses to. He leads the group.*

Hello???

*They're stopped outside the castle by a pair of heavily armed guards.*

"Stop!"

"You can't be here!"

"The king has requested no visitors."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Before the gates, the guards are faced with three Red Steves. One carrying a large hammer, one covered in mushrooms and wearing a gas mask and a lab coat, and one wearing a thick robe with the hood up. There is also one that appears to be a multicolored centipede-thing, half his face is melting...But just behind them, is a very unnerving dragon-thing with a flat, spiraled face with one eye. It's neck is springy and its arms are long. Its mouth is at its chin, baring its sharp teeth. It's at least two or three times the size of them.*

*The one in the gas mask approaches the guards. They can see the mushrooms utterly cover his face. He has an unnatural smile on his face.*

Ohhhhh, is that soooo....?

[the-pale-vessel]

*The guards give each other a nervous look.*

"Yes, we have strict orders not to let anyone in!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Wellllllllll! That just won't do! We must have clearance, rightttt?

*He cocks his head to the side, his pitch going very high the longer he speaks in a sing-song tone.*

[the-pale-vessel]

"I'm sorry, sir.. we can't let you through."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Well, we can't be having that, sir!

*He attempts to walk past them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards back off a little, a bit too scared of the Professor to actually try to stop him.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He tries to fully make his way into the kingdom.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards retreat.*

*... its eerily quiet in this part of the kingdom.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He motions for the others to come through. Most of them pass by silently, not looking at the guards. Except for Beef, who keeps his eye on them as he trudges past.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Theres a few people out and about, but strangely few.*

*Isn't the Yellow Kingdom usually very populated..?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Now that they're inside, Prof. Red drops the act. They keep to themselves, though warily eyeing the lack of citizens around them.*

//This...doesn't look right...

//Yeah. If they're going to war....where is everyone...?

//Guess we'll find out.

//Indeed.

//Keep yourselves wary. The palace might have more guards, or worse, OSHA violations.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They get the feeling their being watched..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all stay on high alert, looking around.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see faint silvery white particles..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Hmmmm...

//Might as well!

*They follow him as he goes to investigate.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They don't see anything other than the particles. Though, they're vaguely person shaped.*

*Some kind of potion, perhaps?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Who are you?

*He says this straightforward and bluntly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They step back onto the grass, which squishes down under their invisible feet.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His voice softens a little.*

We won't hurt you, I promise.

If you're looking for a way out of here, we can do that.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They... start laughing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His demeanor almost immediately changes, his eyes squinting suspiciously. He tries to grab them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They pull out a firework...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*That doesn't deter him. Beef is ready to lunge at them if they try to escape.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They set it off, letting it go off up in the air.*

*...*

*they hear footsteps.*

*many, many sets of footsteps.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef immediately turns around, flaring out his wings. The others keep their eyes on the king.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They speak.*

"Hah, you really thought it was gonna be that easy?!"

*They sound... young. Far too young to be a king...*

*They see a small army of heavily armored yellow steves starting to surround them..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Huh..?

*They fully prepare to simply teleport away if necessary. Beef growls.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They're surrounded.*

*the invisible figure tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He lets them go, more focused on keeping his friends from getting hurt.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They have a lot of weapons pointed at them right now..*

*They could try to teleport to the King's castle, or they could try to retreat.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They try to teleport to the castle.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*There's only like three or four guards there.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He sighs.*

//Everyone, please disregard that scenario for now! Miscalculation on my part!

//That much is obvious.

//Are you gonna try to freak out the guards again?

//We might not have much time...

//I shall try.

*Like last time, he goes up to the guards with a freaky smile on his face. He speaks in a sing-song voice.*

Helllooooo! Lovelyyyy day we're having, yessssss?

[the-pale-vessel]

*Unlike the first two they encountered, these ones don't falter. They don't speak. Two of them block the door with their swords.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are we going to have a problem here?

*He figured as much. Spark looks back, checking if the army is coming for them.*

//Okay then! Who wants to commit murder? :)

//I...thought we weren't doing that.

//That was a joke! Who wants to get them to move, I mean?

//Alright, move over.

*Beef approaches them...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*they aren't being chased.*

*The guards don't flinch. The two blocking the door have their faces hidden by their helmets.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Move, before I force you to.

*He speaks in a low grumble. His gloved hands are almost the same size as the guards themselves...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The two at the door don't move, but the other two start backing away.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He stares the other two down.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both look tense, but don't move..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Permission to grab?

//Permission granted. Just don't throw them.

//Noted.

*Beef goes to grab both that stand at the door..*

[the-pale-vessel]

*One goes very still, accepting fate. The other tries to stab his hand.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He grabs the one that doesn't try to stab him. Though he clutches them firmly, he doesn't squish them. His glove seems to be...uncomfortably fleshy in texture, even with the armor they can see veins on it. He quite literally just places them a bit away from the door and the group. At the same time, he tries to grab the other one.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The other one tries to stab him again.*

*The one who got moved just awkwardly stands there, like they're surprised by still being alive.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He still grabs them, even if he gets stabbed a little. When they do, the blade seems to go through the glove like flesh, not fabric...He only half-flinches, moving them a little further away before letting them go. Spark awkwardly shrugs towards the one that got moved first.*

*When the guards are moved, they immediately head inside, Beef blocking the door so they can't follow.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They enter into the throne room. It seems empty...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red keeps an eye out for any traps...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He doesn't see any.*

*He hears talking in the next room. He can't tell what they're saying, but they sound smug.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Everyone stay quiet. Colle, Sharp, stay with me. Spark, Beef, stay here. We'll try to get a look.

//Okay...

*The three of them creep closer, glancing into the next room.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see the king, along with a yellow steve wearing iron armor with decorative horns and spikes on it.*

"How is the training coming along?"

"They should be ready by tonight, your highness.."

*The armored one sounds... tired.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all duck out of sight when they see a second person. That armor looks tough...Beef's hand still slightly bleeds, Prof. Red doesn't want him hurting himself...maybe they should listen longer...?*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one speaks hesitantly, a faint hint of fear in his tone,*

"Are you... absolutely sure about this your highness?"

"Yes! Are you questioning me?"

"N-no, sir.. it's just... the Red Kingdom has never been this.. quiet. It's suspicious.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mention of their kingdom makes everyone recoil. Sharp and and Colle look at the professor.*

//Okay. I'm going the fuck in. Colle, back me up. Beef, stay hidden til we call for you. Sharp, Spark, stay behind us but not too close. We don't know what they're capable of...

//Understood.

//O-Okay!

//Alright, I got your back.

//Good luck.

*Prof. Red takes a deep breath, spores clearly spitting out into the gas mask. He stretches his mushroom-arms before sprinting into the room.*

Hey! That's MY kingdom!

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both jump, the armored one pulling out a spear.*

"What do you think you're doing here?!"

*The armored one starts slowly backing towards a door leading further into the castle, eyes wide with fear, darting between the King and the Professor.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Stopping you, obviously!

*Colle wields Judge's hammer, rolling his eyes. Prof Red nods towards the armored figure, fully willing to let them escape. He's only here for one person.*

We're already aware of what you're after, you bastard!

*Behind them, both Yellow Steves can see a Red Steve in a robe and one that appears to be half-bug.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one retreats, wanting absolutely nothing to do with this.*

"And what makes you think you can stop me?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red glares at him, more spores filling his gas mask.*

Because we've got way more up our sleeves than you ever will!

[the-pale-vessel]

*He takes a slow step back, eyes narrowing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He smiles creepily, his eyes wide and crazed. He removes his gas mask....*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, pulling a small book out of his pocket and very quickly flicking through it, looking for something.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He opens his mouth, sending out a cloud of spores. They gather into a mushroom-creature that spawns not far from the king. Its empty eyes stare at him with the same unsettling smile...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, whispering as he starts to read something out from the book.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red snaps his fingers, and the mushroom-beast tries to go for the book...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Right as it does, a jet of vivid gold flames shoots out from the King's hands. He drops the book.*

*he nearly loses balance as the blast pushes him back, clearly not able to control it very well.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*It does get burned. Prof. Red visibly flinches, but it turns around to bring it back to its creator. Prof Red hands the book off to Sharp before approaching the king again.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The fire stops spraying shortly after.*

*The king attempts to retreat further into the castle.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

HEY-

*Both Colle and Prof. Red run after him.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He's fast, but clearly unsteady.*

*He trips..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle immediately is on him, pointing his hammer at him. Soon Prof. Red catches up, the half-burned mushroom standing behind the king.*

End of the line, hm?

[the-pale-vessel]

*He tries to grab Colle to electrocute him..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He immediately steps back, and tries to slam his hammer into his arm.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he yelps and ducks out of the way.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mushroom tries to restrain him as Colle winds up for another hit.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He struggles, but doesn’t get away this time.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red approaches him, gas mask on again.*

Now....we have justtttttt a few questions for you, little king...

[the-pale-vessel]

"What do you want..?" *He hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Just HOW much are you planning on conquering, hmmm?

[the-pale-vessel]

"I wasn't conquering! I was simply sending a troop out to scout.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

"Scout," hm? Why would you be needing such a rigorous training regimen for scouting?

[the-pale-vessel]

"How I train my troops is none of your business.." *he hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are you or are you not planning to go "scouting out" more than the Red Kingdom?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"We're scouting a few other places, but that's all we're doing. Scouting."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

I don't believe you.

//Okay, Beef, cmon in. I gotta scare the pants off this guy.

//Alrightttttt.

[the-pale-vessel]

*he huffs,* "If i was going to conquer a kingdom, why would i go after somewhere as useless as the Red Kingdom?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Everyone in the room glares at him. Prof. Red punches him in the face as Beef comes into the room.*

We are NOT useless!

[the-pale-vessel]

"oW- I did not say the red steves are useless, I said your kingdom is!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Might as well be the same thing!

*Beef shambles over, looking downright murderous.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He starts whispering something...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*A little while after Time finished explaining the Yellow King's atrocities, the entire Red Elites (and, of course, the professor) took up their weapons and headed off to face him. Despite being mutated still, Spark and Beef stood as proudly as ever, Beef still carrying his shield as always. Prof. Red is wearing a gas mask, nor wanting to spread spores unless he chooses to. He leads the group.*

Hello???

*They're stopped outside the castle by a pair of heavily armed guards.*

"Stop!"

"You can't be here!"

"The king has requested no visitors."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Before the gates, the guards are faced with three Red Steves. One carrying a large hammer, one covered in mushrooms and wearing a gas mask and a lab coat, and one wearing a thick robe with the hood up. There is also one that appears to be a multicolored centipede-thing, half his face is melting...But just behind them, is a very unnerving dragon-thing with a flat, spiraled face with one eye. It's neck is springy and its arms are long. Its mouth is at its chin, baring its sharp teeth. It's at least two or three times the size of them.*

*The one in the gas mask approaches the guards. They can see the mushrooms utterly cover his face. He has an unnatural smile on his face.*

Ohhhhh, is that soooo....?

[the-pale-vessel]

*The guards give each other a nervous look.*

"Yes, we have strict orders not to let anyone in!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Wellllllllll! That just won't do! We must have clearance, rightttt?

*He cocks his head to the side, his pitch going very high the longer he speaks in a sing-song tone.*

[the-pale-vessel]

"I'm sorry, sir.. we can't let you through."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Well, we can't be having that, sir!

*He attempts to walk past them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards back off a little, a bit too scared of the Professor to actually try to stop him.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He tries to fully make his way into the kingdom.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards retreat.*

*... its eerily quiet in this part of the kingdom.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He motions for the others to come through. Most of them pass by silently, not looking at the guards. Except for Beef, who keeps his eye on them as he trudges past.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Theres a few people out and about, but strangely few.*

*Isn't the Yellow Kingdom usually very populated..?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Now that they're inside, Prof. Red drops the act. They keep to themselves, though warily eyeing the lack of citizens around them.*

//This...doesn't look right...

//Yeah. If they're going to war....where is everyone...?

//Guess we'll find out.

//Indeed.

//Keep yourselves wary. The palace might have more guards, or worse, OSHA violations.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They get the feeling their being watched..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all stay on high alert, looking around.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see faint silvery white particles..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Hmmmm...

//Might as well!

*They follow him as he goes to investigate.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They don't see anything other than the particles. Though, they're vaguely person shaped.*

*Some kind of potion, perhaps?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Who are you?

*He says this straightforward and bluntly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They step back onto the grass, which squishes down under their invisible feet.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His voice softens a little.*

We won't hurt you, I promise.

If you're looking for a way out of here, we can do that.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They... start laughing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His demeanor almost immediately changes, his eyes squinting suspiciously. He tries to grab them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They pull out a firework...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*That doesn't deter him. Beef is ready to lunge at them if they try to escape.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They set it off, letting it go off up in the air.*

*...*

*they hear footsteps.*

*many, many sets of footsteps.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef immediately turns around, flaring out his wings. The others keep their eyes on the king.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They speak.*

"Hah, you really thought it was gonna be that easy?!"

*They sound... young. Far too young to be a king...*

*They see a small army of heavily armored yellow steves starting to surround them..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Huh..?

*They fully prepare to simply teleport away if necessary. Beef growls.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They're surrounded.*

*the invisible figure tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He lets them go, more focused on keeping his friends from getting hurt.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They have a lot of weapons pointed at them right now..*

*They could try to teleport to the King's castle, or they could try to retreat.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They try to teleport to the castle.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*There's only like three or four guards there.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He sighs.*

//Everyone, please disregard that scenario for now! Miscalculation on my part!

//That much is obvious.

//Are you gonna try to freak out the guards again?

//We might not have much time...

//I shall try.

*Like last time, he goes up to the guards with a freaky smile on his face. He speaks in a sing-song voice.*

Helllooooo! Lovelyyyy day we're having, yessssss?

[the-pale-vessel]

*Unlike the first two they encountered, these ones don't falter. They don't speak. Two of them block the door with their swords.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are we going to have a problem here?

*He figured as much. Spark looks back, checking if the army is coming for them.*

//Okay then! Who wants to commit murder? :)

//I...thought we weren't doing that.

//That was a joke! Who wants to get them to move, I mean?

//Alright, move over.

*Beef approaches them...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*they aren't being chased.*

*The guards don't flinch. The two blocking the door have their faces hidden by their helmets.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Move, before I force you to.

*He speaks in a low grumble. His gloved hands are almost the same size as the guards themselves...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The two at the door don't move, but the other two start backing away.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He stares the other two down.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both look tense, but don't move..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Permission to grab?

//Permission granted. Just don't throw them.

//Noted.

*Beef goes to grab both that stand at the door..*

[the-pale-vessel]

*One goes very still, accepting fate. The other tries to stab his hand.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He grabs the one that doesn't try to stab him. Though he clutches them firmly, he doesn't squish them. His glove seems to be...uncomfortably fleshy in texture, even with the armor they can see veins on it. He quite literally just places them a bit away from the door and the group. At the same time, he tries to grab the other one.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The other one tries to stab him again.*

*The one who got moved just awkwardly stands there, like they're surprised by still being alive.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He still grabs them, even if he gets stabbed a little. When they do, the blade seems to go through the glove like flesh, not fabric...He only half-flinches, moving them a little further away before letting them go. Spark awkwardly shrugs towards the one that got moved first.*

*When the guards are moved, they immediately head inside, Beef blocking the door so they can't follow.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They enter into the throne room. It seems empty...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red keeps an eye out for any traps...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He doesn't see any.*

*He hears talking in the next room. He can't tell what they're saying, but they sound smug.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Everyone stay quiet. Colle, Sharp, stay with me. Spark, Beef, stay here. We'll try to get a look.

//Okay...

*The three of them creep closer, glancing into the next room.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see the king, along with a yellow steve wearing iron armor with decorative horns and spikes on it.*

"How is the training coming along?"

"They should be ready by tonight, your highness.."

*The armored one sounds... tired.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all duck out of sight when they see a second person. That armor looks tough...Beef's hand still slightly bleeds, Prof. Red doesn't want him hurting himself...maybe they should listen longer...?*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one speaks hesitantly, a faint hint of fear in his tone,*

"Are you... absolutely sure about this your highness?"

"Yes! Are you questioning me?"

"N-no, sir.. it's just... the Red Kingdom has never been this.. quiet. It's suspicious.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mention of their kingdom makes everyone recoil. Sharp and and Colle look at the professor.*

//Okay. I'm going the fuck in. Colle, back me up. Beef, stay hidden til we call for you. Sharp, Spark, stay behind us but not too close. We don't know what they're capable of...

//Understood.

//O-Okay!

//Alright, I got your back.

//Good luck.

*Prof. Red takes a deep breath, spores clearly spitting out into the gas mask. He stretches his mushroom-arms before sprinting into the room.*

Hey! That's MY kingdom!

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both jump, the armored one pulling out a spear.*

"What do you think you're doing here?!"

*The armored one starts slowly backing towards a door leading further into the castle, eyes wide with fear, darting between the King and the Professor.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Stopping you, obviously!

*Colle wields Judge's hammer, rolling his eyes. Prof Red nods towards the armored figure, fully willing to let them escape. He's only here for one person.*

We're already aware of what you're after, you bastard!

*Behind them, both Yellow Steves can see a Red Steve in a robe and one that appears to be half-bug.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one retreats, wanting absolutely nothing to do with this.*

"And what makes you think you can stop me?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red glares at him, more spores filling his gas mask.*

Because we've got way more up our sleeves than you ever will!

[the-pale-vessel]

*He takes a slow step back, eyes narrowing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He smiles creepily, his eyes wide and crazed. He removes his gas mask....*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, pulling a small book out of his pocket and very quickly flicking through it, looking for something.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He opens his mouth, sending out a cloud of spores. They gather into a mushroom-creature that spawns not far from the king. Its empty eyes stare at him with the same unsettling smile...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, whispering as he starts to read something out from the book.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red snaps his fingers, and the mushroom-beast tries to go for the book...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Right as it does, a jet of vivid gold flames shoots out from the King's hands. He drops the book.*

*he nearly loses balance as the blast pushes him back, clearly not able to control it very well.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*It does get burned. Prof. Red visibly flinches, but it turns around to bring it back to its creator. Prof Red hands the book off to Sharp before approaching the king again.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The fire stops spraying shortly after.*

*The king attempts to retreat further into the castle.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

HEY-

*Both Colle and Prof. Red run after him.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He's fast, but clearly unsteady.*

*He trips..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle immediately is on him, pointing his hammer at him. Soon Prof. Red catches up, the half-burned mushroom standing behind the king.*

End of the line, hm?

[the-pale-vessel]

*He tries to grab Colle to electrocute him..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He immediately steps back, and tries to slam his hammer into his arm.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he yelps and ducks out of the way.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mushroom tries to restrain him as Colle winds up for another hit.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He struggles, but doesn’t get away this time.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red approaches him, gas mask on again.*

Now....we have justtttttt a few questions for you, little king...

[the-pale-vessel]

"What do you want..?" *He hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Just HOW much are you planning on conquering, hmmm?

[the-pale-vessel]

"I wasn't conquering! I was simply sending a troop out to scout.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

"Scout," hm? Why would you be needing such a rigorous training regimen for scouting?

[the-pale-vessel]

"How I train my troops is none of your business.." *he hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are you or are you not planning to go "scouting out" more than the Red Kingdom?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"We're scouting a few other places, but that's all we're doing. Scouting."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

I don't believe you.

//Okay, Beef, cmon in. I gotta scare the pants off this guy.

//Alrightttttt.

[the-pale-vessel]

*he huffs,* "If i was going to conquer a kingdom, why would i go after somewhere as useless as the Red Kingdom?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Everyone in the room glares at him. Prof. Red punches him in the face as Beef comes into the room.*

We are NOT useless!

[the-pale-vessel]

"oW- I did not say the red steves are useless, I said your kingdom is!"

[the-pale-vessel]

*A little while after Time finished explaining the Yellow King's atrocities, the entire Red Elites (and, of course, the professor) took up their weapons and headed off to face him. Despite being mutated still, Spark and Beef stood as proudly as ever, Beef still carrying his shield as always. Prof. Red is wearing a gas mask, nor wanting to spread spores unless he chooses to. He leads the group.*

Hello???

*They're stopped outside the castle by a pair of heavily armed guards.*

"Stop!"

"You can't be here!"

"The king has requested no visitors."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Before the gates, the guards are faced with three Red Steves. One carrying a large hammer, one covered in mushrooms and wearing a gas mask and a lab coat, and one wearing a thick robe with the hood up. There is also one that appears to be a multicolored centipede-thing, half his face is melting...But just behind them, is a very unnerving dragon-thing with a flat, spiraled face with one eye. It's neck is springy and its arms are long. Its mouth is at its chin, baring its sharp teeth. It's at least two or three times the size of them.*

*The one in the gas mask approaches the guards. They can see the mushrooms utterly cover his face. He has an unnatural smile on his face.*

Ohhhhh, is that soooo....?

[the-pale-vessel]

*The guards give each other a nervous look.*

"Yes, we have strict orders not to let anyone in!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Wellllllllll! That just won't do! We must have clearance, rightttt?

*He cocks his head to the side, his pitch going very high the longer he speaks in a sing-song tone.*

[the-pale-vessel]

"I'm sorry, sir.. we can't let you through."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Well, we can't be having that, sir!

*He attempts to walk past them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards back off a little, a bit too scared of the Professor to actually try to stop him.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He tries to fully make his way into the kingdom.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards retreat.*

*... its eerily quiet in this part of the kingdom.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He motions for the others to come through. Most of them pass by silently, not looking at the guards. Except for Beef, who keeps his eye on them as he trudges past.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Theres a few people out and about, but strangely few.*

*Isn't the Yellow Kingdom usually very populated..?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Now that they're inside, Prof. Red drops the act. They keep to themselves, though warily eyeing the lack of citizens around them.*

//This...doesn't look right...

//Yeah. If they're going to war....where is everyone...?

//Guess we'll find out.

//Indeed.

//Keep yourselves wary. The palace might have more guards, or worse, OSHA violations.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They get the feeling their being watched..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all stay on high alert, looking around.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see faint silvery white particles..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Hmmmm...

//Might as well!

*They follow him as he goes to investigate.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They don't see anything other than the particles. Though, they're vaguely person shaped.*

*Some kind of potion, perhaps?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Who are you?

*He says this straightforward and bluntly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They step back onto the grass, which squishes down under their invisible feet.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His voice softens a little.*

We won't hurt you, I promise.

If you're looking for a way out of here, we can do that.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They... start laughing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His demeanor almost immediately changes, his eyes squinting suspiciously. He tries to grab them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They pull out a firework...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*That doesn't deter him. Beef is ready to lunge at them if they try to escape.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They set it off, letting it go off up in the air.*

*...*

*they hear footsteps.*

*many, many sets of footsteps.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef immediately turns around, flaring out his wings. The others keep their eyes on the king.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They speak.*

"Hah, you really thought it was gonna be that easy?!"

*They sound... young. Far too young to be a king...*

*They see a small army of heavily armored yellow steves starting to surround them..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Huh..?

*They fully prepare to simply teleport away if necessary. Beef growls.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They're surrounded.*

*the invisible figure tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He lets them go, more focused on keeping his friends from getting hurt.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They have a lot of weapons pointed at them right now..*

*They could try to teleport to the King's castle, or they could try to retreat.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They try to teleport to the castle.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*There's only like three or four guards there.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He sighs.*

//Everyone, please disregard that scenario for now! Miscalculation on my part!

//That much is obvious.

//Are you gonna try to freak out the guards again?

//We might not have much time...

//I shall try.

*Like last time, he goes up to the guards with a freaky smile on his face. He speaks in a sing-song voice.*

Helllooooo! Lovelyyyy day we're having, yessssss?

[the-pale-vessel]

*Unlike the first two they encountered, these ones don't falter. They don't speak. Two of them block the door with their swords.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are we going to have a problem here?

*He figured as much. Spark looks back, checking if the army is coming for them.*

//Okay then! Who wants to commit murder? :)

//I...thought we weren't doing that.

//That was a joke! Who wants to get them to move, I mean?

//Alright, move over.

*Beef approaches them...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*they aren't being chased.*

*The guards don't flinch. The two blocking the door have their faces hidden by their helmets.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Move, before I force you to.

*He speaks in a low grumble. His gloved hands are almost the same size as the guards themselves...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The two at the door don't move, but the other two start backing away.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He stares the other two down.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both look tense, but don't move..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Permission to grab?

//Permission granted. Just don't throw them.

//Noted.

*Beef goes to grab both that stand at the door..*

[the-pale-vessel]

*One goes very still, accepting fate. The other tries to stab his hand.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He grabs the one that doesn't try to stab him. Though he clutches them firmly, he doesn't squish them. His glove seems to be...uncomfortably fleshy in texture, even with the armor they can see veins on it. He quite literally just places them a bit away from the door and the group. At the same time, he tries to grab the other one.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The other one tries to stab him again.*

*The one who got moved just awkwardly stands there, like they're surprised by still being alive.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He still grabs them, even if he gets stabbed a little. When they do, the blade seems to go through the glove like flesh, not fabric...He only half-flinches, moving them a little further away before letting them go. Spark awkwardly shrugs towards the one that got moved first.*

*When the guards are moved, they immediately head inside, Beef blocking the door so they can't follow.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They enter into the throne room. It seems empty...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red keeps an eye out for any traps...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He doesn't see any.*

*He hears talking in the next room. He can't tell what they're saying, but they sound smug.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Everyone stay quiet. Colle, Sharp, stay with me. Spark, Beef, stay here. We'll try to get a look.

//Okay...

*The three of them creep closer, glancing into the next room.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see the king, along with a yellow steve wearing iron armor with decorative horns and spikes on it.*

"How is the training coming along?"

"They should be ready by tonight, your highness.."

*The armored one sounds... tired.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all duck out of sight when they see a second person. That armor looks tough...Beef's hand still slightly bleeds, Prof. Red doesn't want him hurting himself...maybe they should listen longer...?*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one speaks hesitantly, a faint hint of fear in his tone,*

"Are you... absolutely sure about this your highness?"

"Yes! Are you questioning me?"

"N-no, sir.. it's just... the Red Kingdom has never been this.. quiet. It's suspicious.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mention of their kingdom makes everyone recoil. Sharp and and Colle look at the professor.*

//Okay. I'm going the fuck in. Colle, back me up. Beef, stay hidden til we call for you. Sharp, Spark, stay behind us but not too close. We don't know what they're capable of...

//Understood.

//O-Okay!

//Alright, I got your back.

//Good luck.

*Prof. Red takes a deep breath, spores clearly spitting out into the gas mask. He stretches his mushroom-arms before sprinting into the room.*

Hey! That's MY kingdom!

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both jump, the armored one pulling out a spear.*

"What do you think you're doing here?!"

*The armored one starts slowly backing towards a door leading further into the castle, eyes wide with fear, darting between the King and the Professor.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Stopping you, obviously!

*Colle wields Judge's hammer, rolling his eyes. Prof Red nods towards the armored figure, fully willing to let them escape. He's only here for one person.*

We're already aware of what you're after, you bastard!

*Behind them, both Yellow Steves can see a Red Steve in a robe and one that appears to be half-bug.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one retreats, wanting absolutely nothing to do with this.*

"And what makes you think you can stop me?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red glares at him, more spores filling his gas mask.*

Because we've got way more up our sleeves than you ever will!

[the-pale-vessel]

*He takes a slow step back, eyes narrowing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He smiles creepily, his eyes wide and crazed. He removes his gas mask....*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, pulling a small book out of his pocket and very quickly flicking through it, looking for something.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He opens his mouth, sending out a cloud of spores. They gather into a mushroom-creature that spawns not far from the king. Its empty eyes stare at him with the same unsettling smile...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, whispering as he starts to read something out from the book.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red snaps his fingers, and the mushroom-beast tries to go for the book...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Right as it does, a jet of vivid gold flames shoots out from the King's hands. He drops the book.*

*he nearly loses balance as the blast pushes him back, clearly not able to control it very well.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*It does get burned. Prof. Red visibly flinches, but it turns around to bring it back to its creator. Prof Red hands the book off to Sharp before approaching the king again.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The fire stops spraying shortly after.*

*The king attempts to retreat further into the castle.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

HEY-

*Both Colle and Prof. Red run after him.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He's fast, but clearly unsteady.*

*He trips..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle immediately is on him, pointing his hammer at him. Soon Prof. Red catches up, the half-burned mushroom standing behind the king.*

End of the line, hm?

[the-pale-vessel]

*He tries to grab Colle to electrocute him..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He immediately steps back, and tries to slam his hammer into his arm.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he yelps and ducks out of the way.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mushroom tries to restrain him as Colle winds up for another hit.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He struggles, but doesn’t get away this time.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red approaches him, gas mask on again.*

Now....we have justtttttt a few questions for you, little king...

[the-pale-vessel]

"What do you want..?" *He hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Just HOW much are you planning on conquering, hmmm?

[the-pale-vessel]

"I wasn't conquering! I was simply sending a troop out to scout.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

"Scout," hm? Why would you be needing such a rigorous training regimen for scouting?

[the-pale-vessel]

"How I train my troops is none of your business.." *he hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are you or are you not planning to go "scouting out" more than the Red Kingdom?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"We're scouting a few other places, but that's all we're doing. Scouting."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

I don't believe you.

//Okay, Beef, cmon in. I gotta scare the pants off this guy.

//Alrightttttt.

[the-pale-vessel]

*he huffs,* "If i was going to conquer a kingdom, why would i go after somewhere as useless as the Red Kingdom?!"

[the-pale-vessel]

*A little while after Time finished explaining the Yellow King's atrocities, the entire Red Elites (and, of course, the professor) took up their weapons and headed off to face him. Despite being mutated still, Spark and Beef stood as proudly as ever, Beef still carrying his shield as always. Prof. Red is wearing a gas mask, nor wanting to spread spores unless he chooses to. He leads the group.*

Hello???

*They're stopped outside the castle by a pair of heavily armed guards.*

"Stop!"

"You can't be here!"

"The king has requested no visitors."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Before the gates, the guards are faced with three Red Steves. One carrying a large hammer, one covered in mushrooms and wearing a gas mask and a lab coat, and one wearing a thick robe with the hood up. There is also one that appears to be a multicolored centipede-thing, half his face is melting...But just behind them, is a very unnerving dragon-thing with a flat, spiraled face with one eye. It's neck is springy and its arms are long. Its mouth is at its chin, baring its sharp teeth. It's at least two or three times the size of them.*

*The one in the gas mask approaches the guards. They can see the mushrooms utterly cover his face. He has an unnatural smile on his face.*

Ohhhhh, is that soooo....?

[the-pale-vessel]

*The guards give each other a nervous look.*

"Yes, we have strict orders not to let anyone in!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Wellllllllll! That just won't do! We must have clearance, rightttt?

*He cocks his head to the side, his pitch going very high the longer he speaks in a sing-song tone.*

[the-pale-vessel]

"I'm sorry, sir.. we can't let you through."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Well, we can't be having that, sir!

*He attempts to walk past them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards back off a little, a bit too scared of the Professor to actually try to stop him.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He tries to fully make his way into the kingdom.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Both guards retreat.*

*... its eerily quiet in this part of the kingdom.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He motions for the others to come through. Most of them pass by silently, not looking at the guards. Except for Beef, who keeps his eye on them as he trudges past.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Theres a few people out and about, but strangely few.*

*Isn't the Yellow Kingdom usually very populated..?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Now that they're inside, Prof. Red drops the act. They keep to themselves, though warily eyeing the lack of citizens around them.*

//This...doesn't look right...

//Yeah. If they're going to war....where is everyone...?

//Guess we'll find out.

//Indeed.

//Keep yourselves wary. The palace might have more guards, or worse, OSHA violations.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They get the feeling their being watched..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all stay on high alert, looking around.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see faint silvery white particles..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Hmmmm...

//Might as well!

*They follow him as he goes to investigate.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They don't see anything other than the particles. Though, they're vaguely person shaped.*

*Some kind of potion, perhaps?*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Who are you?

*He says this straightforward and bluntly.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They step back onto the grass, which squishes down under their invisible feet.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His voice softens a little.*

We won't hurt you, I promise.

If you're looking for a way out of here, we can do that.

[the-pale-vessel]

*They... start laughing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*His demeanor almost immediately changes, his eyes squinting suspiciously. He tries to grab them.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They pull out a firework...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*That doesn't deter him. Beef is ready to lunge at them if they try to escape.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They set it off, letting it go off up in the air.*

*...*

*they hear footsteps.*

*many, many sets of footsteps.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Beef immediately turns around, flaring out his wings. The others keep their eyes on the king.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They speak.*

"Hah, you really thought it was gonna be that easy?!"

*They sound... young. Far too young to be a king...*

*They see a small army of heavily armored yellow steves starting to surround them..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Huh..?

*They fully prepare to simply teleport away if necessary. Beef growls.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They're surrounded.*

*the invisible figure tries to run.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He lets them go, more focused on keeping his friends from getting hurt.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They have a lot of weapons pointed at them right now..*

*They could try to teleport to the King's castle, or they could try to retreat.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They try to teleport to the castle.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*There's only like three or four guards there.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He sighs.*

//Everyone, please disregard that scenario for now! Miscalculation on my part!

//That much is obvious.

//Are you gonna try to freak out the guards again?

//We might not have much time...

//I shall try.

*Like last time, he goes up to the guards with a freaky smile on his face. He speaks in a sing-song voice.*

Helllooooo! Lovelyyyy day we're having, yessssss?

[the-pale-vessel]

*Unlike the first two they encountered, these ones don't falter. They don't speak. Two of them block the door with their swords.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are we going to have a problem here?

*He figured as much. Spark looks back, checking if the army is coming for them.*

//Okay then! Who wants to commit murder? :)

//I...thought we weren't doing that.

//That was a joke! Who wants to get them to move, I mean?

//Alright, move over.

*Beef approaches them...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*they aren't being chased.*

*The guards don't flinch. The two blocking the door have their faces hidden by their helmets.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Move, before I force you to.

*He speaks in a low grumble. His gloved hands are almost the same size as the guards themselves...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The two at the door don't move, but the other two start backing away.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He stares the other two down.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both look tense, but don't move..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Permission to grab?

//Permission granted. Just don't throw them.

//Noted.

*Beef goes to grab both that stand at the door..*

[the-pale-vessel]

*One goes very still, accepting fate. The other tries to stab his hand.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He grabs the one that doesn't try to stab him. Though he clutches them firmly, he doesn't squish them. His glove seems to be...uncomfortably fleshy in texture, even with the armor they can see veins on it. He quite literally just places them a bit away from the door and the group. At the same time, he tries to grab the other one.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The other one tries to stab him again.*

*The one who got moved just awkwardly stands there, like they're surprised by still being alive.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He still grabs them, even if he gets stabbed a little. When they do, the blade seems to go through the glove like flesh, not fabric...He only half-flinches, moving them a little further away before letting them go. Spark awkwardly shrugs towards the one that got moved first.*

*When the guards are moved, they immediately head inside, Beef blocking the door so they can't follow.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They enter into the throne room. It seems empty...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red keeps an eye out for any traps...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He doesn't see any.*

*He hears talking in the next room. He can't tell what they're saying, but they sound smug.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

//Everyone stay quiet. Colle, Sharp, stay with me. Spark, Beef, stay here. We'll try to get a look.

//Okay...

*The three of them creep closer, glancing into the next room.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*They see the king, along with a yellow steve wearing iron armor with decorative horns and spikes on it.*

"How is the training coming along?"

"They should be ready by tonight, your highness.."

*The armored one sounds... tired.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*They all duck out of sight when they see a second person. That armor looks tough...Beef's hand still slightly bleeds, Prof. Red doesn't want him hurting himself...maybe they should listen longer...?*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one speaks hesitantly, a faint hint of fear in his tone,*

"Are you... absolutely sure about this your highness?"

"Yes! Are you questioning me?"

"N-no, sir.. it's just... the Red Kingdom has never been this.. quiet. It's suspicious.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mention of their kingdom makes everyone recoil. Sharp and and Colle look at the professor.*

//Okay. I'm going the fuck in. Colle, back me up. Beef, stay hidden til we call for you. Sharp, Spark, stay behind us but not too close. We don't know what they're capable of...

//Understood.

//O-Okay!

//Alright, I got your back.

//Good luck.

*Prof. Red takes a deep breath, spores clearly spitting out into the gas mask. He stretches his mushroom-arms before sprinting into the room.*

Hey! That's MY kingdom!

[the-pale-vessel]

*They both jump, the armored one pulling out a spear.*

"What do you think you're doing here?!"

*The armored one starts slowly backing towards a door leading further into the castle, eyes wide with fear, darting between the King and the Professor.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Stopping you, obviously!

*Colle wields Judge's hammer, rolling his eyes. Prof Red nods towards the armored figure, fully willing to let them escape. He's only here for one person.*

We're already aware of what you're after, you bastard!

*Behind them, both Yellow Steves can see a Red Steve in a robe and one that appears to be half-bug.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The armored one retreats, wanting absolutely nothing to do with this.*

"And what makes you think you can stop me?!"

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red glares at him, more spores filling his gas mask.*

Because we've got way more up our sleeves than you ever will!

[the-pale-vessel]

*He takes a slow step back, eyes narrowing...*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He smiles creepily, his eyes wide and crazed. He removes his gas mask....*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, pulling a small book out of his pocket and very quickly flicking through it, looking for something.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He opens his mouth, sending out a cloud of spores. They gather into a mushroom-creature that spawns not far from the king. Its empty eyes stare at him with the same unsettling smile...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He backs up further, whispering as he starts to read something out from the book.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red snaps his fingers, and the mushroom-beast tries to go for the book...*

[the-pale-vessel]

*Right as it does, a jet of vivid gold flames shoots out from the King's hands. He drops the book.*

*he nearly loses balance as the blast pushes him back, clearly not able to control it very well.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*It does get burned. Prof. Red visibly flinches, but it turns around to bring it back to its creator. Prof Red hands the book off to Sharp before approaching the king again.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*The fire stops spraying shortly after.*

*The king attempts to retreat further into the castle.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

HEY-

*Both Colle and Prof. Red run after him.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He's fast, but clearly unsteady.*

*He trips..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Colle immediately is on him, pointing his hammer at him. Soon Prof. Red catches up, the half-burned mushroom standing behind the king.*

End of the line, hm?

[the-pale-vessel]

*He tries to grab Colle to electrocute him..*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*He immediately steps back, and tries to slam his hammer into his arm.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*he yelps and ducks out of the way.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*The mushroom tries to restrain him as Colle winds up for another hit.*

[the-pale-vessel]

*He struggles, but doesn’t get away this time.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

*Prof. Red approaches him, gas mask on again.*

Now....we have justtttttt a few questions for you, little king...

[the-pale-vessel]

"What do you want..?" *He hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Just HOW much are you planning on conquering, hmmm?

[the-pale-vessel]

"I wasn't conquering! I was simply sending a troop out to scout.."

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

"Scout," hm? Why would you be needing such a rigorous training regimen for scouting?

[the-pale-vessel]

"How I train my troops is none of your business.." *he hisses.*

[keepers-of-storycrafter]

Are you or are you not planning to go "scouting out" more than the Red Kingdom?!

[the-pale-vessel]

"We're scouting a few other places, but that's all we're doing. Scouting."