Ad Libitum Synopsis Pt. 7
After nearly three and a half months of laziness, I've finally updated my synopsis for the Ad Libitum RP. From Dist's arrival to "Costume Surprise."
Searching for Friends
Dist the Reaper's Arrival
Looking for New Recruits
Confused? (Paneer's Arrival)
Costume Surprise
Searching for Friends
After being dropped off at the inn, Ion makes a mental note to repay Rita at a later date. He realizes that he has no money or status here, so he panics a little, asking if anyone knows a Jade Curtiss. Genis has heard of the rumors of more people appearing in Blessenwood. He decides to help out Ion, since he has nothing better to do.
Asch wanders to the inn after being scolded by the behemoth quest clients. He bumps into Ion and starts yelling at him before actually looking at him. He stops himself when he recognizes the Fon Master. Ion gets excited to see someone he knows and actually hugs Asch. Asch is confused and startled by the act, snapping at Genis. Ion is relieved to see someone else from Auldrant and wonders if they're dead. Asch ponders the question for a moment, as he too was dying before being summoned here. But he decides that they're both alive for the moment. Ion offers to heal Asch's wounds, but Asch insists to take care of it himself. Asch changes the subject to address Genis, who introduces himself as a member-in-training in Ad Libitum, and admits that he'll need to do a few more quests before Kratos lets him in. When Genis asks about Asch and Ion being friends, Asch immediately points out that they're merely from the same organization.
Jay storms into the inn and sits down at one of the tables, somewhat upset after meeting Goede. He begins to write his notes. Genis gets the point about Asch and Ion being from the same world. Genis and Ion awkwardly introduce themselves. Genis couldn't find Yuan's mana signature, and Kratos appeared a while back and has taken over as Blessenwood's guild leader. Asch hopes that he won't have to pass another test for Ad Libitum as he wonders how much Ion knows about this place. Ion doesn't know very much, other than the World Tree being in danger. He suggests to learn the basics over lunch. Genis states that Kratos comes from his world, and is also Lloyd's father. Ion suggests to sit with Jay, which sort of turns Asch off.
Tear joins the group, wearing her maid uniform, having obtained a job cleaning at the inn. Tear feels guilty upon seeing Ion, while Ion is happy to see her. Jay looks up as the group approaches him. When Ion introduces himself, Jay recognizes the name, as Anise has mentioned him. He decides to take the opportunity to share his report with Ad Libitum. But before he does, he wants to share the basics of the situation with Ion. Asch indignantly shares the info about the world, the tree, and the guild. Ion wonders if there's a pattern of the people Martel summons, but Jay sees no pattern at all. He's sure to mention the overwhelming number of people who have been summoned from Auldrant, however. Ion offers to help with his attack and healing artes, hoping that Tear wouldn't protest. Jay points out that Asch could use some healing right now. Asch swears that he would take care of it, but Jay believes that Asch looks even more pathetic the more he tries to maintain his pride. Asch fumes, pointing out that Ion collapses whenever he uses his artes. Ion suggests that Tear should heal him, and Asch reluctantly agrees. Tear agrees to heal Asch so that Ion could conserve his strength. Asch takes a seat near her, his face flushing red. His pride is really suffering now. Tear may have to heal him more than once, since she normally doesn't do broken bones. Ion likes watching Tear's fonic artes, then asks to hear more about the tree spirit. Tear realizes that they're short on healers, and she'd be failing in her duties if she refused to help an injured ally. She suggests for Asch to refrain from swinging his sword for at least a day, and to come to her if his arm bothers him again. Asch swears that it'll never happen again, but deep down, he knows it will. Then he decides to leave, as there are enough people here already. Jay stammers, surprised that Asch isn't going to stay to hear his report. So he decides to wait for a guild meeting to be arranged, because he feels that everyone in Ad Libitum needs to hear his report.
Ion bids adieu to Asch, and insists that they don't have to explain things to him if it's inconvenient. Genis feels uncomfortable, since Jay is the only person here that he knows, and he doesn't exactly trust him. Ion summons up what he knows so far. Genis explains that Ad Libitum helps the townspeople so that they can get a feel for Atlas, and they're here because the World Tree is dying. Ion wonders if mana is like fonons, and whether Martel is like Lorelei. Tear believes that the former statement is true, but not the latter. Martel is a separate being, but Lorelei wouldn't be able to exist if the fonons broke up. Ion asks for a place to sleep, and Tear offers to reserve a room for him.
Dist the Reaper's Arrival
Dist is panicking as he flees from a few harmless leafy creatures. He trips over some roots and then hides behind a tree, swearing to destroy the creatures with his Kaiser Dist. Hearing the cries, Jay rushes to the rescue, taking out the monsters easily. Upon laying eyes on Dist, he is momentarily reminded of Solon. But that changes quickly when Dist insists that Jay didn't need to interfere. Jay doesn't really believe that Dist had manners under control, and asks for enlightment on his status. Dist expects this from an ignorant savage, and proudly introduces himself as the preeminent genius Dist the Rose. Jay returns the introduction, pointing out that he's unaware of Dist's wonderful self because he comes from a different world. Dist immediately accuses Jay of abducting him. Jay clears things up by admitting that he too was "abducted" by Martel. However, he cannot why she would summon someone like Dist.
Zelos is also in the woods, still short-circuited from assuming that Ion was a girl. But when he hears Dist's girly screams, he decides to rush to the rescue. Dist insists that he could save any world if it was worth the effort, but still doesn't believe Jay, and demands to know what's really going on. But then Zelos falls right into him, knocking him to the ground. Zelos picks himself up, fuming that Dist is also a guy. Dist insist that it's not his fault that he was kidnapped and left without his weapons. Zelos thinks to himself that Dist is an even bigger idiot than Lloyd, but also believes it wouldn't be fair to Lloyd. Zelos wonders what a Kaiser Dist is, but Jay points out that it's not important since it doesn't exist in Atlas. Jay tries a more idiotic story on Dist, claiming that he was terrified that Dist was going to kidnap him. He sarcastically claims that he's small and meek, and no match for Dist's glorious genius. Dist boasts to Zelos about his fair skin adding to his beauty. He listens to Jay's story, but recognizes the sarcasm beneath it. He then puts both of them in his revenge journal. Jay is curious about the revenge plan.
Zelos makes fun of Dist's skin, pointing out its similarity to the slimy, wiggly grubs hiding under a rock. He then decides to leave, offering Jay to come with him. However, Jay decides to stay with Dist for the sole purpose of making fun of him some more. Dist thinks that Zelos is just jealous of his perfect complexion. At least he's mollified that Jay is sticking with him, but still insists that he doesn't need his help. He keeps his elegant revenge plan a secret from Jay, still decreeing that he'll regret ever making a fool out of Dist. But he still needs time to plot the perfect means of revenge.
Jay wonders why Dist would get angry when someone leaves him when he doesn't need help. He's looking forward to seeing Dist's revenge plan. Dist points out that it's rude to abandon an unarmed man in the middle of nowhere. He assures Jay that his revenge plan will be spectacular...but deep down, he's dreading the fact that he still has to come up with a plan that won't backfire on him for once.
Jay is excited at the anticipation of this revenge plan, and asks what Dist will do in the meantime. Dist takes Jay's flattery at face value, perhaps rethinking how much revenge he would need to take. He then demands instructions on how to get back to Keterberg, for he doesn't want to be absent when Jade arrives. Jay points out that Martel would have to send everyone back to their respective worlds, but with the decline in mana, they're stuck in this world for the time being. He then pauses at the mention of Jade. Dist still doesn't believe the story of being summoned to another world. Seeing that Jay knows Jade, Dist suspects them of being in league together. Jay teases Dist to use his "brilliant" mind, pointing out that he wouldn't be here if they were in Auldrant. Jay doesn't know what sort of "scheme" Dist suspects Jade of having, though. Dist insists that Jay is lying for his own devious ends, rants about Jade always scheming things, and believes that only Dist's brilliant mind can hope to defeat him. He then realizes that if Jay knows Jade, it means that Jade is also in this world.
Jay has no reason to lie, and tries to pry Dist about his own schemes. The thoughts confuse him, that perhaps Jade really does have a devious villain within his kind façade. Dist has seen no evidence of being in a new world, and insists that Jay is mad. He becomes furious at Jay's evasion of his question, and tells how Jade was once his greatest friend until he betrayed him.
Zelos throws a Hell Pyre to burn the roots that he had tripped over. He then leaves to bother some more chicks, such as Rita, Cantabile, or Tear.
Jay huffs at Dist, pointing out that it's pointless to reveal Jade's location if Dist doesn't believe anything he says. Dist begrudgingly accepts Jay's story at that point, and demands where to find Jade. Jay suspects that Dist still doesn't believe him, and admits that he doesn't know where Jade is. However, he doesn't want to bring Dist to Blessenwood or any other town. Dist wants to know why Jade is here when he told him to come to Keterberg. Jay admits that Jade promised to contact him with any information about the World Tree. He then reminds Dist that they, along with Jade and a handful of other unfortunate souls, have been "abducted" to Atlas in order to save it. Dist decides that he would just have to locate Jade himself. He ponders the abduction business, imagining that he or Jay could be abducted. However, he can't quite conceive the notion of Jade being abducted. He wonders why Jade would associate himself with a brat like Jay, and warns that his revenge will be a hundred times harsher if he's lying about this.
Jay admits that he and Jade are cooperating to end the world crisis so that they could return home. He then teases Dist again, saying that he could see why Jade would betray him. He then offers a tip on revenge, about torture being a cruel method. He'll even let Dist abduct him if he pleases, as he would see it as an opportunity to learn more about him. Dist fumes that Jay doesn't understand what he and Jade have been striving to do. He fumes even more, insisting that his revenge will be more magnificent than merely torturing Jay. Dist wants to fly away in his chair, but it's still missing. Instead, he decides to follow Jay back to Blessenwood. Jay doesn't want to lead him back, but realizes that he can't stop Dist from following.
Jay gives a speech of his own, that Dist has no idea what he and Jade are trying to do, despite having just told the God-General. He teases Dist again, unable to imagine what could be more magificent than being captured by him. He then leaves for Blessenwood, not caring whether Dist stays or follows him. However, Jay does make a mental note to warn Jade before Dist finds him. Dist suspects that Jay is being insincere in recognizing Dist's glory. He hopes that Jay gets devoured by monsters, but then begins to follow him to Blessenwood.
Looking for New Recruits
Mao returns to Blessenwood, looking for recruits to start an Ad Libitum chapter in Port Merrium. He really wanted to come back to Blessenwood, even if he didn't want to admit it. He gets excited, hoping that he would see people that he might know. He wanders in the Blessenwood marketplace, realizing that he's beginning to pick up Hilda and Annie's habits of shopping.
Cantabile is also wandering around the marketplace, having just sold a wooden shield at the armory. She suspects that the shop owner paid her less than he would have other sellers, but she lacks evidence. She had been in the forest to rekindle her skills, and has returned to town to buy gel bases. She tries to buy an orange, but suspects once again that the vendor is overcharging her for it because she's a foreigner.
Zelos is having a lousy day, still lamenting over the mixup with Ion and Dist. Now he's taking the scenic route through the marketplace, while planning to talk to Yuan about setting up a guild branch in Port Merrium. He spots Mao and addresses him as a little brother. Yet he still can't believe that Mao is his boss.
Mao contemplates that Blessenwood is definitely busier now. He goes to stand up for Cantabile about the price of the orange. He hears Zelos' voice in the meantime, saying that he's looking for recruits for Port Merrium. He doesn't want to interrupt in Zelos' quest to find a girlfriend, though. Zelos is cheered by the fact that Mao was happy to see him. He notices that Mao's sense of humor was why Yuan had appointed him as the guild leader for Port Merrium, despite being just a kid. Zelos warns Mao not to steal any hunnies from him. He recommends Cantabile as a potential recruit for the Port Merrium branch.
Mao thinks that some of the hunnies look more like rats, and the rat Gajuma was prettier. He suspects that Zelos might just want Cantabile for her looks, but he notices that Cantabile looks somewhat like the female warriors in the Royal Shield. Zelos seems oblivious to Mao's annoyance, and remembers that a rat-faced girl gave him the best massage ever at the Seaside Spa. He's not sure about the Gajuma in Mao's world, though. He admits that he does like Cantabile's body, but he also recognizes her skills. Mao isn't used to being in a world that's more Huma than Gajuma. He does appreciate the lack of tension, although he notices the squabbles about things other than race. He offers Zelos to come with him to recruit Cantabile, but quickly changes his mind and sends Zelos to meet with Yuan. Zelos sulks at the arrangement, but silently agreed that Mao would have a better chance of recruiting members without him. Mao feels somewhat guilty at Zelos' reaction. He admits that he doesn't mind Zelos helping him, but he doesn't want to be in the middle of a romance novel. Zelos insists that he's not upset, and that he needs to teach Mao about teenage girls. But he does need to talk to Yuan, and asks Mao to talk to Cantabile. Zelos also mentions Ion and Dist, especially warning about Dist going on about "glorious revenge."
Cantabile ends up paying ten gald for the orange, wondering why he'd be embarrassed by some kid. Mao might be worth the effort, and he and Zelos might be brothers, given their dynamics. But Cantabile has no way of knowing. She notices that Zelos has noticed her as well, and greets him in passing. She overhears Ion and Dist being mention, and prefers Zelos' company over Dist, at least. When she greets Zelos, she inquires about the kid. Mao pouts at Zelos, but then appreciates his word of honor. He takes note of the names Zelos mentioned and promises to meet him at the inn. He notices Cantabile approaching them, insisting that he's not a kid, and telling her that he and Zelos are in Port Merrium's Ad Libitum.
Zelos struggles to break the ice without the pickup lines, but ends up saying stupid things anyway, asking of Cantabile was grocery shopping. Cantabile would make an effort to remember Mao's name, but he's still a pipsqueak. She refuses to take back her comment. She does get caught off guard by Zelos' small talk. She likes to keep supplies on hand, and asks if Mao and Zelos are preparing for a quest. She still wants to check out Ad Libitum.
Mao has to give Zelos credit for not flirting with Cantabile. He still thinks to himself that it would be fun to see Cantabile's reactions, though. He then tells her that he's looking for new members for Port Merrium, and Zelos was going to talk to Yuan. He asks if Cantabile is interested, while forcing himself to refrain from bursting into song, for he doesn't want to sound even more like a kid. Cantabile admits to being interested, but she wants to see what Ad Libitum is like before sticking with it. She wonders if they would just recruit any wimp off the street. Zelos explains that she would have to take a test before she joins, from fetching groceries, to killing monsters, to dueling members. The test isn't too hard, as he doesn't want anyone to get hurt. Mao offers to take Cantabile on a quest, confident that she can handle anything that Blessenwood throws at her. She agrees to meet with Yuan about deciding on a quest, because she wants to see what kind of person runs the guild. Zelos silently becomes jealous that Mao and Cantabile would be alone together without him. He snaps, pointing out Mao's former promise not to steal any of his hunnies. Mao is annoyed, as he doesn't want to steal Zelos' hunnies, and offers to let him join them on the quest. Cantabile is also annoyed, as she never agreed to be Zelos's "hunny." They head for the guild building to decide on a quest. Mao moves ahead of them so as not to see any of Zelos's flirting.
Confused (Paneer's Arrival)
Paneer flutters through the woods, trying to find any of the Ad Libitum members. She's confused about why the World Tree would be in the middle of the forest instead of the middle of the sea as it is in her world. She then suspects that she's no longer in Granide. It doesn't seem to strange to her, but she still wonders what to do.
Asch has fully recovered from his injuries again, and is testing his luck in the forest. He sees the Natsu-Natsu flying, almost mistaking it for a cheagle at first. He tries to take a closer look, keeping his sword ready just in case. Paneer almost suspects a monster, but then she recognizes Asch, asking him if he's seen anyone else. Asch is startled at Paneer suddenly being in his face, wondering how she knows his name. Paneer, in turn, is startled by Asch's scowl. She recalls Asch being like this when he first woke up, but is confused that he doesn't know her. Since she was in a different world, she realizes that this isn't the Asch from Granide. Asch wonders if Paneer could be one of Dist's experiments if she knows his name.
Paneer introduces herself and her world, and tells him that there's another him in Granide. She points out that there was also another Kanonno from another world. Asch flinches at Paneer's depressed reaction to his yelling, and then tells her that she was summoned by Martel to Atlas. He still ponders the idea of another him, that's not even a replica. He dismisses the subject, and points Paneer to the path to Blessenwood. Paneer smiles at Asch's advice, noticing that he has the same personality as Granide's Asch. He's gruff on the outside, but still has a kind nature on the inside, and it reminds Paneer of home. She then asks what to do when she reaches Blessenwood. Asch recommends for her to try Ad Libitum, where most of the summoned people join. He also adds that she'll have to prove her competence in order to join. She could try the inn if Ad Libitum doesn't work, but from there, she's on her own. Asch makes sure to point out that he's not here to help.
Paneer recognizes the name "Ad Libitum," and says there's an Ad Libitum in Granide, too. She wonders if this Ad Libitum could use someone to cook and clean. She thanks Asch once again for his help. Asch ponders once again about Granide and the alternate versions of people, and then reiterates that he's not here to help. He points Paneer toward the patch again, not wanting to leave her to the monsters. Paneer still doesn't leave yet, and asks Asch about what's going on. He scolds her, having already told her about Atlas and Martel, and that she already knows about Ad Libitum. Paneer remembers that Granide's Ad Libitum had saved the world, and then realizes that this world is in danger, too. Asch confirms this, and they can't get back to their worlds until they fix the World Tree. Paneer hopes that Kanonno and Janis will be okay without her, but then pulls herself together. She explains that she cooked and did the household chores for Granide's Ad Libitum, and wonders if she could do the same here. She then wonders if the Descender is working with them.
Asch refrains from mentioning the inn, and remembers that he has no reason to help. He doesn't know what a Descender is, though. Paneer explains that a Descender is born from the World Tree whenever the world is in danger. She also knows that a Descender is just like any other person. Asch confirms that he hasn't heard of any Descenders, only people from other worlds, and none of them had mentioned Descenders. Paneer worries about a world without a Descender, but then concludes that Martel may have summoned people here because there's no Descender for Atlas. Asch assumes that the people summoned must be the Descenders. Paneer explains that Descenders are borne of mana, and will disappear if the World Tree dies. Asch seems troubled by this as he sees Blessenwood coming into view.
Upon arriving in Blessenwood, Paneer takes note of how nice it is. She asks Asch to lead her to Ad Libitum because it would take her a while to find it herself. Asch begrudgingly agrees to the request, despite the urge to drop her off here. Paneer winces at his tone, trying to keep up despite her old age. She then wonders if she'll recognize anyone else from Granide's Ad Libitum.
Costume Surprise
Jay has been selected to model in a Tear costume for a little girl's birthday. His face turns red as he looks himself in the mirror, worried about exposing his "unseen parts." He then notices that his clients were no longer around. He wonders where they could be, even suspecting that they might be humiliating him for the thrill. So he swallows his pride and goes into the street to search for the clients. He lets his hair down, hoping that no one would recognize him. When his feet begin to hurt from the shoes, he sits on a bench, wondering how Tear can stand wearing this outfit. He then hopes that the clients' daughter has smaller feet than he does. He hides his face and just sits.
Paneer notes how lovely Blessenwood is, and compares its size to Van Eltia. While she looks around, she spots someone who looks like Tear, thinking that Tear's hair should be brown. Asch is trying to avoid conversation, but perks up when Paneer mentions Tear. He notices Jay in the costume, noticing the darker hair and the paler skin. Asch decides to make him cry by yelling at him for wearing a Daathic uniform. Asch starts to yell, only to realize that the person was not female. He himself turns red when he realizes that he had just tried to stare at a girl's chest. Then he collects himself, demanding to know what Jay is doing dressed like that. Jay jumps out of the bench, startled at Paneer fluttering in front of him, and crashes into a lamppost, cowering all the while. Paneer feels guilty at the mistaken identity, then feels concerned that Jay might be hurt. She refrains from asking why Jay is dressed like that.
Asch feels a headache coming on in response to the scene. Unlike Paneer, he demands to know why Jay is dressed like Tear, or any girl. Paneer sighs at the question. Jay's face is still red as he explains that he was chosen as the fitting model for a girl who has become a Tear fan. He then checks to make sure none of his parts were showing. He sits back on the bench and pulls off the high heels that were causing him so much pain. Asch points out that copying Tear's uniform isn't a smart idea. He feels the upper hand as long as Jay is red in the face and smirks at him. He calls Paneer to leave the scene with him, but Paneer wants to help Jay with his aching feet first.
Jay points out a holiday in which people dress up for fun, and also points out the day when Asch dressed up as a housewife to make cheesecakes. He then addresses Paneer, admitting that his toes are still sore. Asch points out that he was wearing an apron, not a dress, then waits while Paneer helps Jay. Paneer introduces herself to Jay as a youthful eighteen, with a hobby of reading romance novels. She then guesses Jay's name, asking him if he's an Ad Libitum member. Jay seems intrigued at Paneer's hobby as his feelings stir up within. He then wonders why Asch is so suspicious of him. Jay confirms to being with Ad Libitum, wondering how Paneer knows his name. Paneer claims that someone commented on how the girl in the Tear costume looked like Jay. She finishes massaging his feet. Jay explains that the costume seemed like an easy quest, but the parents were gone when he put on the costume. If they're playing a joke, Jay can easily return the favor. Paneer returns to Asch, who warns her not to dawdle any more. Jay remarks that Asch is in his usual "pleasant" mood, then decides to return to the blacksmith. Paneer gives him a wave and then follows Asch to the guild building. At this point, Asch gains the "Hidden Kindness" title.
Searching for Friends
Dist the Reaper's Arrival
Looking for New Recruits
Confused? (Paneer's Arrival)
Costume Surprise
Searching for Friends
After being dropped off at the inn, Ion makes a mental note to repay Rita at a later date. He realizes that he has no money or status here, so he panics a little, asking if anyone knows a Jade Curtiss. Genis has heard of the rumors of more people appearing in Blessenwood. He decides to help out Ion, since he has nothing better to do.
Asch wanders to the inn after being scolded by the behemoth quest clients. He bumps into Ion and starts yelling at him before actually looking at him. He stops himself when he recognizes the Fon Master. Ion gets excited to see someone he knows and actually hugs Asch. Asch is confused and startled by the act, snapping at Genis. Ion is relieved to see someone else from Auldrant and wonders if they're dead. Asch ponders the question for a moment, as he too was dying before being summoned here. But he decides that they're both alive for the moment. Ion offers to heal Asch's wounds, but Asch insists to take care of it himself. Asch changes the subject to address Genis, who introduces himself as a member-in-training in Ad Libitum, and admits that he'll need to do a few more quests before Kratos lets him in. When Genis asks about Asch and Ion being friends, Asch immediately points out that they're merely from the same organization.
Jay storms into the inn and sits down at one of the tables, somewhat upset after meeting Goede. He begins to write his notes. Genis gets the point about Asch and Ion being from the same world. Genis and Ion awkwardly introduce themselves. Genis couldn't find Yuan's mana signature, and Kratos appeared a while back and has taken over as Blessenwood's guild leader. Asch hopes that he won't have to pass another test for Ad Libitum as he wonders how much Ion knows about this place. Ion doesn't know very much, other than the World Tree being in danger. He suggests to learn the basics over lunch. Genis states that Kratos comes from his world, and is also Lloyd's father. Ion suggests to sit with Jay, which sort of turns Asch off.
Tear joins the group, wearing her maid uniform, having obtained a job cleaning at the inn. Tear feels guilty upon seeing Ion, while Ion is happy to see her. Jay looks up as the group approaches him. When Ion introduces himself, Jay recognizes the name, as Anise has mentioned him. He decides to take the opportunity to share his report with Ad Libitum. But before he does, he wants to share the basics of the situation with Ion. Asch indignantly shares the info about the world, the tree, and the guild. Ion wonders if there's a pattern of the people Martel summons, but Jay sees no pattern at all. He's sure to mention the overwhelming number of people who have been summoned from Auldrant, however. Ion offers to help with his attack and healing artes, hoping that Tear wouldn't protest. Jay points out that Asch could use some healing right now. Asch swears that he would take care of it, but Jay believes that Asch looks even more pathetic the more he tries to maintain his pride. Asch fumes, pointing out that Ion collapses whenever he uses his artes. Ion suggests that Tear should heal him, and Asch reluctantly agrees. Tear agrees to heal Asch so that Ion could conserve his strength. Asch takes a seat near her, his face flushing red. His pride is really suffering now. Tear may have to heal him more than once, since she normally doesn't do broken bones. Ion likes watching Tear's fonic artes, then asks to hear more about the tree spirit. Tear realizes that they're short on healers, and she'd be failing in her duties if she refused to help an injured ally. She suggests for Asch to refrain from swinging his sword for at least a day, and to come to her if his arm bothers him again. Asch swears that it'll never happen again, but deep down, he knows it will. Then he decides to leave, as there are enough people here already. Jay stammers, surprised that Asch isn't going to stay to hear his report. So he decides to wait for a guild meeting to be arranged, because he feels that everyone in Ad Libitum needs to hear his report.
Ion bids adieu to Asch, and insists that they don't have to explain things to him if it's inconvenient. Genis feels uncomfortable, since Jay is the only person here that he knows, and he doesn't exactly trust him. Ion summons up what he knows so far. Genis explains that Ad Libitum helps the townspeople so that they can get a feel for Atlas, and they're here because the World Tree is dying. Ion wonders if mana is like fonons, and whether Martel is like Lorelei. Tear believes that the former statement is true, but not the latter. Martel is a separate being, but Lorelei wouldn't be able to exist if the fonons broke up. Ion asks for a place to sleep, and Tear offers to reserve a room for him.
Dist the Reaper's Arrival
Dist is panicking as he flees from a few harmless leafy creatures. He trips over some roots and then hides behind a tree, swearing to destroy the creatures with his Kaiser Dist. Hearing the cries, Jay rushes to the rescue, taking out the monsters easily. Upon laying eyes on Dist, he is momentarily reminded of Solon. But that changes quickly when Dist insists that Jay didn't need to interfere. Jay doesn't really believe that Dist had manners under control, and asks for enlightment on his status. Dist expects this from an ignorant savage, and proudly introduces himself as the preeminent genius Dist the Rose. Jay returns the introduction, pointing out that he's unaware of Dist's wonderful self because he comes from a different world. Dist immediately accuses Jay of abducting him. Jay clears things up by admitting that he too was "abducted" by Martel. However, he cannot why she would summon someone like Dist.
Zelos is also in the woods, still short-circuited from assuming that Ion was a girl. But when he hears Dist's girly screams, he decides to rush to the rescue. Dist insists that he could save any world if it was worth the effort, but still doesn't believe Jay, and demands to know what's really going on. But then Zelos falls right into him, knocking him to the ground. Zelos picks himself up, fuming that Dist is also a guy. Dist insist that it's not his fault that he was kidnapped and left without his weapons. Zelos thinks to himself that Dist is an even bigger idiot than Lloyd, but also believes it wouldn't be fair to Lloyd. Zelos wonders what a Kaiser Dist is, but Jay points out that it's not important since it doesn't exist in Atlas. Jay tries a more idiotic story on Dist, claiming that he was terrified that Dist was going to kidnap him. He sarcastically claims that he's small and meek, and no match for Dist's glorious genius. Dist boasts to Zelos about his fair skin adding to his beauty. He listens to Jay's story, but recognizes the sarcasm beneath it. He then puts both of them in his revenge journal. Jay is curious about the revenge plan.
Zelos makes fun of Dist's skin, pointing out its similarity to the slimy, wiggly grubs hiding under a rock. He then decides to leave, offering Jay to come with him. However, Jay decides to stay with Dist for the sole purpose of making fun of him some more. Dist thinks that Zelos is just jealous of his perfect complexion. At least he's mollified that Jay is sticking with him, but still insists that he doesn't need his help. He keeps his elegant revenge plan a secret from Jay, still decreeing that he'll regret ever making a fool out of Dist. But he still needs time to plot the perfect means of revenge.
Jay wonders why Dist would get angry when someone leaves him when he doesn't need help. He's looking forward to seeing Dist's revenge plan. Dist points out that it's rude to abandon an unarmed man in the middle of nowhere. He assures Jay that his revenge plan will be spectacular...but deep down, he's dreading the fact that he still has to come up with a plan that won't backfire on him for once.
Jay is excited at the anticipation of this revenge plan, and asks what Dist will do in the meantime. Dist takes Jay's flattery at face value, perhaps rethinking how much revenge he would need to take. He then demands instructions on how to get back to Keterberg, for he doesn't want to be absent when Jade arrives. Jay points out that Martel would have to send everyone back to their respective worlds, but with the decline in mana, they're stuck in this world for the time being. He then pauses at the mention of Jade. Dist still doesn't believe the story of being summoned to another world. Seeing that Jay knows Jade, Dist suspects them of being in league together. Jay teases Dist to use his "brilliant" mind, pointing out that he wouldn't be here if they were in Auldrant. Jay doesn't know what sort of "scheme" Dist suspects Jade of having, though. Dist insists that Jay is lying for his own devious ends, rants about Jade always scheming things, and believes that only Dist's brilliant mind can hope to defeat him. He then realizes that if Jay knows Jade, it means that Jade is also in this world.
Jay has no reason to lie, and tries to pry Dist about his own schemes. The thoughts confuse him, that perhaps Jade really does have a devious villain within his kind façade. Dist has seen no evidence of being in a new world, and insists that Jay is mad. He becomes furious at Jay's evasion of his question, and tells how Jade was once his greatest friend until he betrayed him.
Zelos throws a Hell Pyre to burn the roots that he had tripped over. He then leaves to bother some more chicks, such as Rita, Cantabile, or Tear.
Jay huffs at Dist, pointing out that it's pointless to reveal Jade's location if Dist doesn't believe anything he says. Dist begrudgingly accepts Jay's story at that point, and demands where to find Jade. Jay suspects that Dist still doesn't believe him, and admits that he doesn't know where Jade is. However, he doesn't want to bring Dist to Blessenwood or any other town. Dist wants to know why Jade is here when he told him to come to Keterberg. Jay admits that Jade promised to contact him with any information about the World Tree. He then reminds Dist that they, along with Jade and a handful of other unfortunate souls, have been "abducted" to Atlas in order to save it. Dist decides that he would just have to locate Jade himself. He ponders the abduction business, imagining that he or Jay could be abducted. However, he can't quite conceive the notion of Jade being abducted. He wonders why Jade would associate himself with a brat like Jay, and warns that his revenge will be a hundred times harsher if he's lying about this.
Jay admits that he and Jade are cooperating to end the world crisis so that they could return home. He then teases Dist again, saying that he could see why Jade would betray him. He then offers a tip on revenge, about torture being a cruel method. He'll even let Dist abduct him if he pleases, as he would see it as an opportunity to learn more about him. Dist fumes that Jay doesn't understand what he and Jade have been striving to do. He fumes even more, insisting that his revenge will be more magnificent than merely torturing Jay. Dist wants to fly away in his chair, but it's still missing. Instead, he decides to follow Jay back to Blessenwood. Jay doesn't want to lead him back, but realizes that he can't stop Dist from following.
Jay gives a speech of his own, that Dist has no idea what he and Jade are trying to do, despite having just told the God-General. He teases Dist again, unable to imagine what could be more magificent than being captured by him. He then leaves for Blessenwood, not caring whether Dist stays or follows him. However, Jay does make a mental note to warn Jade before Dist finds him. Dist suspects that Jay is being insincere in recognizing Dist's glory. He hopes that Jay gets devoured by monsters, but then begins to follow him to Blessenwood.
Looking for New Recruits
Mao returns to Blessenwood, looking for recruits to start an Ad Libitum chapter in Port Merrium. He really wanted to come back to Blessenwood, even if he didn't want to admit it. He gets excited, hoping that he would see people that he might know. He wanders in the Blessenwood marketplace, realizing that he's beginning to pick up Hilda and Annie's habits of shopping.
Cantabile is also wandering around the marketplace, having just sold a wooden shield at the armory. She suspects that the shop owner paid her less than he would have other sellers, but she lacks evidence. She had been in the forest to rekindle her skills, and has returned to town to buy gel bases. She tries to buy an orange, but suspects once again that the vendor is overcharging her for it because she's a foreigner.
Zelos is having a lousy day, still lamenting over the mixup with Ion and Dist. Now he's taking the scenic route through the marketplace, while planning to talk to Yuan about setting up a guild branch in Port Merrium. He spots Mao and addresses him as a little brother. Yet he still can't believe that Mao is his boss.
Mao contemplates that Blessenwood is definitely busier now. He goes to stand up for Cantabile about the price of the orange. He hears Zelos' voice in the meantime, saying that he's looking for recruits for Port Merrium. He doesn't want to interrupt in Zelos' quest to find a girlfriend, though. Zelos is cheered by the fact that Mao was happy to see him. He notices that Mao's sense of humor was why Yuan had appointed him as the guild leader for Port Merrium, despite being just a kid. Zelos warns Mao not to steal any hunnies from him. He recommends Cantabile as a potential recruit for the Port Merrium branch.
Mao thinks that some of the hunnies look more like rats, and the rat Gajuma was prettier. He suspects that Zelos might just want Cantabile for her looks, but he notices that Cantabile looks somewhat like the female warriors in the Royal Shield. Zelos seems oblivious to Mao's annoyance, and remembers that a rat-faced girl gave him the best massage ever at the Seaside Spa. He's not sure about the Gajuma in Mao's world, though. He admits that he does like Cantabile's body, but he also recognizes her skills. Mao isn't used to being in a world that's more Huma than Gajuma. He does appreciate the lack of tension, although he notices the squabbles about things other than race. He offers Zelos to come with him to recruit Cantabile, but quickly changes his mind and sends Zelos to meet with Yuan. Zelos sulks at the arrangement, but silently agreed that Mao would have a better chance of recruiting members without him. Mao feels somewhat guilty at Zelos' reaction. He admits that he doesn't mind Zelos helping him, but he doesn't want to be in the middle of a romance novel. Zelos insists that he's not upset, and that he needs to teach Mao about teenage girls. But he does need to talk to Yuan, and asks Mao to talk to Cantabile. Zelos also mentions Ion and Dist, especially warning about Dist going on about "glorious revenge."
Cantabile ends up paying ten gald for the orange, wondering why he'd be embarrassed by some kid. Mao might be worth the effort, and he and Zelos might be brothers, given their dynamics. But Cantabile has no way of knowing. She notices that Zelos has noticed her as well, and greets him in passing. She overhears Ion and Dist being mention, and prefers Zelos' company over Dist, at least. When she greets Zelos, she inquires about the kid. Mao pouts at Zelos, but then appreciates his word of honor. He takes note of the names Zelos mentioned and promises to meet him at the inn. He notices Cantabile approaching them, insisting that he's not a kid, and telling her that he and Zelos are in Port Merrium's Ad Libitum.
Zelos struggles to break the ice without the pickup lines, but ends up saying stupid things anyway, asking of Cantabile was grocery shopping. Cantabile would make an effort to remember Mao's name, but he's still a pipsqueak. She refuses to take back her comment. She does get caught off guard by Zelos' small talk. She likes to keep supplies on hand, and asks if Mao and Zelos are preparing for a quest. She still wants to check out Ad Libitum.
Mao has to give Zelos credit for not flirting with Cantabile. He still thinks to himself that it would be fun to see Cantabile's reactions, though. He then tells her that he's looking for new members for Port Merrium, and Zelos was going to talk to Yuan. He asks if Cantabile is interested, while forcing himself to refrain from bursting into song, for he doesn't want to sound even more like a kid. Cantabile admits to being interested, but she wants to see what Ad Libitum is like before sticking with it. She wonders if they would just recruit any wimp off the street. Zelos explains that she would have to take a test before she joins, from fetching groceries, to killing monsters, to dueling members. The test isn't too hard, as he doesn't want anyone to get hurt. Mao offers to take Cantabile on a quest, confident that she can handle anything that Blessenwood throws at her. She agrees to meet with Yuan about deciding on a quest, because she wants to see what kind of person runs the guild. Zelos silently becomes jealous that Mao and Cantabile would be alone together without him. He snaps, pointing out Mao's former promise not to steal any of his hunnies. Mao is annoyed, as he doesn't want to steal Zelos' hunnies, and offers to let him join them on the quest. Cantabile is also annoyed, as she never agreed to be Zelos's "hunny." They head for the guild building to decide on a quest. Mao moves ahead of them so as not to see any of Zelos's flirting.
Confused (Paneer's Arrival)
Paneer flutters through the woods, trying to find any of the Ad Libitum members. She's confused about why the World Tree would be in the middle of the forest instead of the middle of the sea as it is in her world. She then suspects that she's no longer in Granide. It doesn't seem to strange to her, but she still wonders what to do.
Asch has fully recovered from his injuries again, and is testing his luck in the forest. He sees the Natsu-Natsu flying, almost mistaking it for a cheagle at first. He tries to take a closer look, keeping his sword ready just in case. Paneer almost suspects a monster, but then she recognizes Asch, asking him if he's seen anyone else. Asch is startled at Paneer suddenly being in his face, wondering how she knows his name. Paneer, in turn, is startled by Asch's scowl. She recalls Asch being like this when he first woke up, but is confused that he doesn't know her. Since she was in a different world, she realizes that this isn't the Asch from Granide. Asch wonders if Paneer could be one of Dist's experiments if she knows his name.
Paneer introduces herself and her world, and tells him that there's another him in Granide. She points out that there was also another Kanonno from another world. Asch flinches at Paneer's depressed reaction to his yelling, and then tells her that she was summoned by Martel to Atlas. He still ponders the idea of another him, that's not even a replica. He dismisses the subject, and points Paneer to the path to Blessenwood. Paneer smiles at Asch's advice, noticing that he has the same personality as Granide's Asch. He's gruff on the outside, but still has a kind nature on the inside, and it reminds Paneer of home. She then asks what to do when she reaches Blessenwood. Asch recommends for her to try Ad Libitum, where most of the summoned people join. He also adds that she'll have to prove her competence in order to join. She could try the inn if Ad Libitum doesn't work, but from there, she's on her own. Asch makes sure to point out that he's not here to help.
Paneer recognizes the name "Ad Libitum," and says there's an Ad Libitum in Granide, too. She wonders if this Ad Libitum could use someone to cook and clean. She thanks Asch once again for his help. Asch ponders once again about Granide and the alternate versions of people, and then reiterates that he's not here to help. He points Paneer toward the patch again, not wanting to leave her to the monsters. Paneer still doesn't leave yet, and asks Asch about what's going on. He scolds her, having already told her about Atlas and Martel, and that she already knows about Ad Libitum. Paneer remembers that Granide's Ad Libitum had saved the world, and then realizes that this world is in danger, too. Asch confirms this, and they can't get back to their worlds until they fix the World Tree. Paneer hopes that Kanonno and Janis will be okay without her, but then pulls herself together. She explains that she cooked and did the household chores for Granide's Ad Libitum, and wonders if she could do the same here. She then wonders if the Descender is working with them.
Asch refrains from mentioning the inn, and remembers that he has no reason to help. He doesn't know what a Descender is, though. Paneer explains that a Descender is born from the World Tree whenever the world is in danger. She also knows that a Descender is just like any other person. Asch confirms that he hasn't heard of any Descenders, only people from other worlds, and none of them had mentioned Descenders. Paneer worries about a world without a Descender, but then concludes that Martel may have summoned people here because there's no Descender for Atlas. Asch assumes that the people summoned must be the Descenders. Paneer explains that Descenders are borne of mana, and will disappear if the World Tree dies. Asch seems troubled by this as he sees Blessenwood coming into view.
Upon arriving in Blessenwood, Paneer takes note of how nice it is. She asks Asch to lead her to Ad Libitum because it would take her a while to find it herself. Asch begrudgingly agrees to the request, despite the urge to drop her off here. Paneer winces at his tone, trying to keep up despite her old age. She then wonders if she'll recognize anyone else from Granide's Ad Libitum.
Costume Surprise
Jay has been selected to model in a Tear costume for a little girl's birthday. His face turns red as he looks himself in the mirror, worried about exposing his "unseen parts." He then notices that his clients were no longer around. He wonders where they could be, even suspecting that they might be humiliating him for the thrill. So he swallows his pride and goes into the street to search for the clients. He lets his hair down, hoping that no one would recognize him. When his feet begin to hurt from the shoes, he sits on a bench, wondering how Tear can stand wearing this outfit. He then hopes that the clients' daughter has smaller feet than he does. He hides his face and just sits.
Paneer notes how lovely Blessenwood is, and compares its size to Van Eltia. While she looks around, she spots someone who looks like Tear, thinking that Tear's hair should be brown. Asch is trying to avoid conversation, but perks up when Paneer mentions Tear. He notices Jay in the costume, noticing the darker hair and the paler skin. Asch decides to make him cry by yelling at him for wearing a Daathic uniform. Asch starts to yell, only to realize that the person was not female. He himself turns red when he realizes that he had just tried to stare at a girl's chest. Then he collects himself, demanding to know what Jay is doing dressed like that. Jay jumps out of the bench, startled at Paneer fluttering in front of him, and crashes into a lamppost, cowering all the while. Paneer feels guilty at the mistaken identity, then feels concerned that Jay might be hurt. She refrains from asking why Jay is dressed like that.
Asch feels a headache coming on in response to the scene. Unlike Paneer, he demands to know why Jay is dressed like Tear, or any girl. Paneer sighs at the question. Jay's face is still red as he explains that he was chosen as the fitting model for a girl who has become a Tear fan. He then checks to make sure none of his parts were showing. He sits back on the bench and pulls off the high heels that were causing him so much pain. Asch points out that copying Tear's uniform isn't a smart idea. He feels the upper hand as long as Jay is red in the face and smirks at him. He calls Paneer to leave the scene with him, but Paneer wants to help Jay with his aching feet first.
Jay points out a holiday in which people dress up for fun, and also points out the day when Asch dressed up as a housewife to make cheesecakes. He then addresses Paneer, admitting that his toes are still sore. Asch points out that he was wearing an apron, not a dress, then waits while Paneer helps Jay. Paneer introduces herself to Jay as a youthful eighteen, with a hobby of reading romance novels. She then guesses Jay's name, asking him if he's an Ad Libitum member. Jay seems intrigued at Paneer's hobby as his feelings stir up within. He then wonders why Asch is so suspicious of him. Jay confirms to being with Ad Libitum, wondering how Paneer knows his name. Paneer claims that someone commented on how the girl in the Tear costume looked like Jay. She finishes massaging his feet. Jay explains that the costume seemed like an easy quest, but the parents were gone when he put on the costume. If they're playing a joke, Jay can easily return the favor. Paneer returns to Asch, who warns her not to dawdle any more. Jay remarks that Asch is in his usual "pleasant" mood, then decides to return to the blacksmith. Paneer gives him a wave and then follows Asch to the guild building. At this point, Asch gains the "Hidden Kindness" title.