Records of Memory Collection

[ademoelord]

[00] how to demon lord! / "For what could be ordinary about a demon lord?" (v1 pg 13-21) [starter day 156, later afternoon]

This memory is mostly info dump on the basics of demon lord. He's talking to a dark haired demon about it apparently very shortly after "getting the job" of being the demon lord. Demon lords are apparently supposed to be wicked and wreck havoc and he's kind of bad at that. The other demon yells at him a time or two for forgetting things or not wanting to terrorize people. ;^;

+ '^' demon lord rar
+ grumpmeister grumpmeister
+ FOOD IS PRIORITY!

-- He's a demon lord!
-- He has a ridiculously huge and amazing palace.
-- He took the job for the free food and housing.
-- FOOD IS IMPORTANT OKAY?!
-- A demon lord should wreck havoc, set fires, conspire to take over the world, kidnap princesses, and get trounced by knights. :|a Though maybe not get trounced by knights. :|aaaa
-- He inherited his powers from the previous demon lord and is doubly blessed by the gods?
-- A demon lord does not defer (no misters or sirs :x fella is acceptable though)
-- A demon lord instill terror and exudes superiority whether he wants to or not :xxxx
-- A demon lord never apologizes because he must appear wicked ("how dare you admonish me, vermin?")
-- There's some induction ceremony he's supposed to be going to?
-- To get anywhere in the castle he just needs to picture it and say "Go". :|a useful
-- "Demon Grumpmeister" is instructing him in how to be a demon lord.


[01] a new servant / "Therefore, you shall have a death worthy of your transgression." (v1 83 - 91) [Day 157, mid-afternoon]
Memory Format: Mmemories come in the form of drop spindles in your team color. Just twist it in your hands to see your memory. Though you can use them properly too if you want. Used 1/10 times.

In this memory, a knight attacks him!!! ... a-and their sword shatters on his head. (oh baby why your head so hard) His not dying is kind of a shock to them both, but he recovers first because hey, he won right?! He uses a phrase learned in demon lord lessons and threatens to kill the knight because he came there to kill him first.

Except the knight asks him to wait and he does without thinking about it. Then the knight suggests that he should take him as a henchman, and he really likes that idea. He sends the knight to take the place of the guards he killed and is really super excited because he's going to have someone to play with. Then he goes to take a nap.

+ a;sdlkfjoisje;lj how did I not die?!
+ oh wait! cool! I won :O!!
+ I can demon lord pretty well when irritated
+ but a henchman is better than killing still :|
+ yay! someone to play with~~~~

-- A sword broke on his head. ._.
-- That guy was really trying to kill him?!
-- Demon Lord phrases 101: "You! You had the audacity to invade a demon lord's castle and attempt to disgrace him. Therefore you shall have a death worthy of your transgressions."
-- He was really going to kill that knight for showing up... maybe?
-- Insulting people who question him being a demon lord is acceptable :|b
-- Taking on a knight as a subordinate is kind of a cool thought. :D
-- Awesome! Someone to play with while Eclipse is out!
-- Wait... who is Eclipse?


[02] Pulhel: second meeting / "I had to join the Guild to survive." (v2 159-173) [Day 162, high noon ]
Memory Format: little white chocolate bones. Used 1/1 times.

In this memory, Raenef is sitting in the window seat of a tavern thinking about someone he met earlier in the day -- a person with pitch black hair and pale skin. It's physical characteristics that he's never seen before in his life, and it's captivated his thoughts for a while. One of the older thieves he knows (probably one of the leaders) comes to talk to him and when he tells him what he's thinking about, the man suggests that the black haired man is probably from the North. Another thief approaches the man then and starts asking about "a plan" that he's heard about that the other thief is kind of upset he knows about already. Raenef doesn't pay much attention to this though and wanders out of the tavern into the night.

He's walking around the city continuing to think about the black haired man when he spots him walking in front of him. He acts without thinking, reaching out to grab the man's hair and yanks it. (oops) After apologizing, he explains why the man's hair is interesting to him and then:

R: "You're different from the people who live here, mister."
M: "Mister? Yes, I look different from those who live in the South."
R: "That's not what I mean. When you saw me earlier today, you already knew I was a thief, right? The people of this town hate us, but you don't seem to mind."
M: "...... You don't like being a thief? Why should it matter to me? If you don't like being a thief, then stop."
R: "I can't. I'm an orphan. I had to join the Guild to survive."

The man is quiet for a moment before patting him on the head and telling him to take care of himself. He starts to say something else when another from the guild calls out that the meeting is about to start, and Raenef calls an "it was nice to meet you" back to the man as he runs off to the meeting.


+ feels on being an outcast
+ feels on needing to be part of the group
+ feels on having a place to belong

-- Oh, I guess I was a thief.
-- Hey, that's the grumpmeister from before. He's kind of nice here. '-'
-- Wait, I don't know him and he doesn't know me so this must be when we're meeting.
-- How did I go from thief to demon lord?? ._.;;
-- Black hair was really unique. People from the South have lighter color hair and darker skin than people from the North.
-- He's never really traveled outside of Pulhel, and people from the North don't visit much.
-- Wandering alone at night in the city isn't at all a concern for him :|a
-- That guy is pretty interesting because he doesn't dislike thieves.
-- Oh... I guess I was kind of uncomfortable with people hating me because I was a thief, but I couldn't quit either. I'm an orphan and the thieves took me in.


[S01] SKILL: Raenef [Day 165, mid-afternoon]
SKILL Format: a ripe white peach. Used 1/1 times.

Details: Okay! I need to talk about this because this is one of the single most important skills in his registry, and it wasn't in his registry until like a week ago because I hadn't thought to put it there until a discussion about Pitch during the Darkness attack. Unfortunately I don't have the plurk because I deleted it like a winner, so everything is going to be paraphrase.

Basically the initial comment was "Haha it would be funny if Raenef got attacked by a monster and unexpectedly exploded on him." It was followed by a question of "does he have this skill" which... honestly bothered me a lot. Because it's not a skill. There's nothing about the ability that's voluntary. It's an intrinsic part of his very being. When his powers first get triggered, his only knowledge of demons is what he's heard in folk tales basically. So this isn't a "skill" so much as it is "WHO HE IS". It bothered me enough that I deleted the plurk, but whatever whatever.

It did lead to more thinking though, and a random amusement (that Pitch's first 3 memories did not actually include his name by happenstance) actually became quite important. Thus, this skill was 1 added to the registry, and 2 given priority over all others.

"Raenef" is not just a name. It is a hereditary passing down of the powers, abilities, knowledge, etc of the demon lord line. Raenef is the fifth generation of the demon lord succession, and honestly one of the most powerful of the line. He can't not be demon, but without his name he was not actually a demon lord. He did not feel like a demon lord. He had no powers beyond a mortals. He was just a kid who was very much not human.

Impact: "Raenef" gives him that back. Not the skills or the knowledge, but the power and weight of a demon lord. His attribute shifts immediately from "neutral" to "dark". He will innately start gathering in energies as well. It's not something he's conscious of. He cannot amplify the ability, but if he is attacked now, the power within him, that of the demon lord Raenef, will act to keep him alive. Mostly this is exploding things that try to hurt him with undirected force.

Again, this isn't something he can try to control. If he regains some of the memories of lessons with Eclipse, he might try experimenting, but it's the same as any other skill in that it will not work right. (OH! I remembered I could do AMAZING gymnastics!!! Lemme try it!!! *dopey cartwheel :( baw*)

He will not actually be able to feel the difference himself. He will just remember "oh. hey I have a name!!! :OOOO!!!!" and then be a little confused at why a name is a skill, but hey. Other people will be able to tell the difference if they can sense magic, power levels, or darkness attributes. Oops bebe demon lord just got really powerful and doesn't know it.

ADDITIONALLY!!!!!!! (and this is mostly only important in terms of heart games etc, but needs to be noted)

Prior to this skill, there was only "Pitch" in Raenef's head. THIS IS NOT AT ALL THE CASE ANYMORE. Reacquiring his name also gave him Raenef IV and Alter!Raenef up there. They are largely inactive until he can take the Awakening and Merging skills (this goes especially for Raenef IV) but they are now present in his head. They are intrinsically part of him.

Right now, Alter!Raenef is still sleeping. Raenef IV is arguably responsible for helping his power to pop people, but he has no control of Raenef's body or power outside emergency reactions. Present but impotent basically.



So yes, this is why this skill was prioritized. This is why this skill exists. He can now begin to actually acquire other skills at random. :|b

-- confusion!!!!! this is going to produce a lot of IC confusion about this. A bit of uncertainty too. How he introduces himself will change slightly. "I am called Pitch." instead of "I'm Pitch." and he probably won't insist on being called Raenef until he gets more of his memories back. He knows who he is, but the slight uncertainty of "that was a memory?" and worse "m-my name was a skill? D:" is going to weird him out a bit.


[03] memory loss?! / "Why are you all looking at me like that?" (v5 53-60) [day 166, mid-morning]
Memory Format: a heart-shaped raspberry jam tart! there's a red velvet bag of four tarts, tied with a red ribbon. eat one to get your memory! Used 1/4 times.

In this memory, Raenef wakes up and wanders down to meet everyone (Grumpmeister, the knight, and some other guy?) for breakfast in the morning. He feels kind of tired, but doesn't really know why. They stare at him and then:

Kn: R-Raenef? He looks like himself doesn't he?
OG: I-I think so.

To which he is very confused and asks why they're looking at him funny and if something happened. There's no reply to that so he asks if they shouldn't get ready to go to the demon world.

Gm: Ready? For what?
Rae: Remember, there's that meeting we have to attend. I'll do my best not to embarrass you this time. :D

They stare at him for a bit longer before the knight (wait the knight's a lady?) says they're not going "don't you remember?" At which point, Raenef starts spazzing because he can't. The panicking gets worse even after Grumpmeister's "welcome back, Raenef." He ends up bawling for a bit before the knight comes to drape on him saying:

Kn: You're very lucky, Raenef ♥ You may be a moron most of the time, but you sure are loved! Just a moment ago, Eclipse was gazing at you with such sincere affection. All right, all right, I'll write a poem!

At which point Eclipse attacks her.

Kn: There's nothing to be ashamed of, Eclipse. What? Are you embarrassed?

More attacking and Raenef wtfing over them suddenly fighting. "You guys!"


+ DDDDDDDD: MEMORY LOSS IN MY MEMORIES WHAT IS THIS?!

-- Oh! Grumpmeister's name is Eclipse!
-- And... apparently the knight's a girl? When did that happen? Oh well.
-- She's still with us and we seem to be on good terms. Cheek poking is better than swords.
-- Who the heck is that other guy?
-- WHY DO I NOT REMEMBER THINGS?! THAT WAS AN IMPORTANT THING (which I can't remember the details, but I know it was important) SO WHY CAN I NOT REMEMBER IT GETTING CANCELED?!
-- OH NO ARE THEY GOING TO FIRE ME FOR FORGETTING STUFF?!
-- '-' Eclipse loves me even if I'm a moron? ... That's not entirely comforting...


[04] guild leaders captured / "They're the only family I've got!" (v2 189-200) [Day 168, early hours of the morning Part 1 Part 2]
Memory Format: a small jar. You must open and sniff it to take you memory. Hope you love the smell of rotting fish.Four uses, if you're fast at restopping it. Once the smell is gone, you can't view the memory any more. Used 1/4 times Lost other viewings when dropped jar after first viewing.

In this memory, Raenef is sitting down in an alley with the dark haired guy when some city guards approach, talking to each other about the Guild leader getting captured. Most of the Guild had been caught and they were heading to the plaza to answer the summon bell. One of the guards catches sight of Raenef, and after a moment, recognizes him as part of the guild.

Gu: He's one of the kids in the guild! You little rat!! Get him!

Raenef panics a bit, but suddenly the guards freeze unable to move, and the dark haired guy steps forward.

Ec: How dare you. Worthless mortals...

The guards what the fuck at this understandably and Raenef just... starts to run off but the guy grabs his wrist.

Ec: Where do you think you're going?
Rae: Let me go. They said they caught the leader. They're probably gathering at the plaza. I can't just stand here and do nothing! Let me go! I'm sure it doesn't matter to you what happens to a thief but to me -- they're the only family I've got! I have to do something -- I can't just let them die!

He jerks his arm free and runs off to the plaza that's packed with people. He pushes his way to the front of the crowd and finally gets a view of the leader and the other thieves beaten with their hands tied behind them under guard.

+ SOB!!!!!!
+ f-family is those who take you in and accept you
+ do everything for them

-- h-haha this... is the best/worst memory to get back for this game |D;;;;;;;;;

-- Raenef took this memory alone and ended up vomiting immediately after taking the memory. Yes, he did make it to the bathroom to vomit in the toilet, but definitely vomited. He also probably dropped the jar/lid when he bolted and lost the remaining viewings of the memory.
-- Okay, more fully, this makes him regret what happened in the game even more. Obviously he didn't do enough to protect Saya because their offer wasn't accepted. It wasn't good enough. This means he didn't try hard enough and someone he cares for a lot got hurt because of it.
-- THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE!!!!!!!
-- His attitude in bad games is probably going to change slightly. He's still a derp. He can't help that, but damn it... Jasper is all he has -- just like the guild was all he had. He can't let them get hurt without trying his hardest and giving his all.
-- This memory definitely chipped hard at his carefree attitude in games at least.


[05] another lord's domain / "Whew! So my powers aren't gone?" (v4 36-43) [Day 170, Morning]
Memory Format: a small whistle shaped like blackbirds that have been baked into your team's pie. Whistles are blown to retrieve the memory and can be blown four times. Used 1/4 times.

In this memory, Raenef is with the knight and the boy from the memory loss memory. They're in a strange forest and it's pretty uneasy feeling at that.

Rae: We're inside a demon's dream?
Kn: Raenef.
Rae: Yes?
Kn: Try to use your magic.
Rae: What magic? Why?
Kn: Any magic. There's something I want to confirm.
Rae: I really only know one spell, anyway.

He gathers energy for the Dark Arrow spell, and it completely fizzles on him. He panics a bit trying again and again to get the spell to work. It won't. At all. And he dissolves into waterfall tears afraid he's lost his power and Eclipse is going to kick him out of the castle. The knight kicks him and tells him to shut up.

Kn: Your powers aren't gone. We're in a dream! Different rules apply, and, I think that if a demon lord sent us here... this is probably his world. The world of dreams is probably his realm.
Boy: That's right. A demon lord can use his full powers only in his own realm. That would explain why Erutis can draw out her sword's energy... and I can materialize my clerical powers, but -- you can't use magic.

There is a moment of silence before Raenef sighs in relief.

Rae: Whew! So my powers aren't gone?
Kn: Were you listening?!
Boy: What do you mean "whew"?!
Both: You can't use magic to get us out of here!!
Kn: Hey demon lord, can't you evil us a way out of here?! I'm not spending eternity with girl-eating monsters!
Rae: Uh... well...
Kn: What do you mean "well"?!! Did you see those things?? I'm trapped in some sick demon's fantasy!!!!! NOOOOOO!!!!!!!!

And the knight proceeds to panic as the memory ends. |D;;

+ magic can only be used to the full extent in a demon lord's own domain :|a
+ SWEET!!!!! That totally means I didn't lose my powers (even if I can't use them!)

-- Oh hey, the knight's name is Erutis.
-- And that boy's a cleric I guess?
-- :|aa Why are we in a demon lord's dream? What demon lord?
-- Why are there girl-eating monsters?
-- ^_^ hehe Eclipse won't fire me because I didn't lose my powers. |D
-- ... where is Eclipse?


[S02] SKILL: reading/writing [Day 175, Evening to Day 176, Morning: part1 part2 fin]
SKILL Format: a small chocolate truffle ♥ Used 1/1 times.

Details: Mundane skill get! He can now read and write! But really only on an early middle school level for reading and a late elementary level for writing. 1) he's young. 2) he was a street rat so his reading/writing lessons weren't formal lessons until he became a demon lord. He could read well enough to get by on the streets but he still had a long way to go.

Impact: Well, he won't feel entirely useless when reading and writing come up in games now. He won't always know the more complicated or higher reading level words and his spelling is going to be atrocious, but he's leaps and bounds ahead of where he was so reading and writing lessons will probably continue with Ed and Swift, I think it was.

-- ;o; happy!!!! I CAN READ!!!!!!!


[06] death drill / "Ew! We'll leave it to your imagination." (v2 pg 12-25) [Day 179, early evening]
Memory Format: A silver charm bracelet with charms in the shape of microphones, music notes, and tiny ballerinas. Snap it on to view your memory! After six uses it's just a bracelet, though. Used 2/6 times. (Edmund)

In this memory (starting here), Raenef starts with Eclipse standing over him in full lecture mode.

Ecl: In order to become a mighty demon lord, how must you carry yourself? Do you remember? Master Raenef?

Raenef is quiet before looking down at the ground in front of where he's sitting, sheepishly.

Ecl: Have you forgotten?
Rae: No. I must "wreak havoc, terrorize, torture and terminate terribly."
Ecl: Terminate terribly? Very good.

Eclipse smiles brightly that he's remembered and Raenef perks up at the praise... just in time for Eclipse to start yelling.

Ecl: So.. if you haven't forgotten... THEN HOW DO YOU EXPLAIN THAT?!
Rae: EEK!!!

That of course is the knight Erutis that Raenef didn't kill. Eclipse continues his yelling making things worse for Raenef.

Ecl: How could you spar a knight who came here to DESTROY YOU?! Terrorize, torture, and terminate terribly! You understand that "terminate" means KILL THEM, do you not?
Rae: I know that, but--
Ecl: No buts! You should have killed that thing immediately. Demon lords do not show mercy.
Rae: Um... um... I know, but -- Erutis is my new page.

Erutis seems to approve of this excuse. Eclipse seems about ready to have an aneurysm.

Ecl: You took a knight as your page. That's preposterous.

Though after a moment, Eclipse seems to relent on the matter.

Ecl: .... As you wish, then.
Rae: What? Really?
Ecl: Yes, but I believe it is time for a new phase of your training. Today you'll attempt the "Death Drill" listed on page 13 of chapter 13 in section 1.3 of the Attributes of a Demon Lord text.
Rae: .o. Death drill?

Erutis looks a lot more unsure and scared of this news, and Eclipse teleports her out of the area calling her Raenef's "toy". Then he gets back to lecture mode.

Ecl: Remember incantations are unnecessary. You need only focus your mezraez, to destroy your target.
Rae: [D:;;;] Uh, okay. I see. I've gotta try real hard -- if I don't get this right, I'm done for. Stay calm and focus.
Ecl: Shall we try it then?
Rae: What?! You want me to try it just like that??
Ecl: ..... It's simplicity itself. here, I'll show you.

And then Eclipse summoned a crusader (that looks an awful lot like a dragon), and Raenef is kind of ??? about what Eclipse is doing.

Ecl: Identify a target and focus your gaze...
Rae: Stare? Like this?
Ecl: Nevermind. Just focus your mezraez. Just as you did with the Dark Arrow, only there is no need to speak.

And then Eclipse turns his attention to the crusader with a killing look, and "Ew! We'll leave it to your imagination." The crusader explodes into a bloody mess with bits and pieces flying off in all directions in a spray of blood.

Rae: .............
Ecl: Simple. The key points of this magic are sending for mezraez... and sending just enough so that you don't make a sticky mess.

About then, Eclipse notices that Raenef is still staring in shock... and then he passes the fuck out.

+ SCREAM

-- So I guess I got yelled at for Erutis after all.
-- Eclipse is so mad T-T
-- D-Death drill?
-- A crusader looks a lot like that fella on Iolite '-';;
-- BLOODY GORY MESS --> PASSING THE FUCK OUT NOW
-- RAENEF IS PASSING OUT AFTER THIS MEMORY :D;;;;


[07] getting mocked / "A demon lord isn't supposed to be cute." (v4 141-146) [Day 181, crack of dawn]
Memory Format: a scrap of burlap in your team's color. Tie it around your wrist to get your memory, infinite uses. Used 1/infinite times.

In this memory, they the cleric, Erutis, and Raenef arrive back at his palace -- Erutis landing hard on her ass... again, and the cleric makes a comment about her butt being too heavy, which she growls at him for.

Eclipse: We are home, Master Raenef. Wouldn't you agree that this word is preferable to another demon lord's realm?

Raenef pauses thoughtfully before smiling just a little and agreeing and thinking, Yes, because this is where you are. Then he has a twinge in which he feels like he's forgotten something important, something unsettling.

Rae: Eclipse, there is something I want to ask you.
Ecl: Yes?
Rae: Didn't you say that a demon lord has no powers in another demon lord's realm? That's why I couldn't use my powers in Krayon's realm, but... why was Krayon able to use his powers here? Like when he transported us?
Ecl: ... Krayon may look like a fool--
Rae: A fool?
Ecl: Rather, he may not appear threatening, but he is an elder demon. And he takes great pride in his powers.
Rae: Seriously? He's an Elder? He didn't look that old.
Ecl: What have we learned?

The cleric then drapes on Raenef, which he doesn't really seem to mind.

Rae: You can't judge a book by its cover?
Cleric: Raenef, Raenef, the one who shouldn't be judged by his appearance is you!
Rae: What's wrong with the way I look?!
Cleric: What's wrong?! You look more like cotton candy than a demon lord. Who's going to be afraid of you?

THIS APPARENTLY TICKS RAENEF OFF A LITTLE.

Rae: You... You dare mock me, vermin?!

The cleric and Erutis stare at him for a minute before Erutis blushes and pulls Raenef into a snuggling hug.

Eru: Cu-cutie-pie. You're such a doll, Raenef. You can call me sis.
Rae: A demon lord isn't supposed to be cute. Calling her sis is too weird.
Eru: Give us a smile, Rae.
Rae: [does automatically]
Eru: Aww, socute! ♥

Then the cleric holds his hand out for Raenef's hand and comments about them being "such widdle hands" and then smirks... which causes Raenef to lose it again and start attacking the cleric with Dark Arrow for mocking him.

+ sensitivity to being called cute or being made fun of for his looks
+ violence is an answer

-- Krayon was the demon whose domain they were in before probably.
-- Apparently he's a lot older and more powerful than he looks.
-- "Home" is nice because that's where Eclipse is.... /////
-- Erutis and the cleric do not take him seriously at all.
-- I AM NOT CUTE SHUT UP >((((((((


[08] the other half / "Such disrespect. How dare you barge in on me." (v4 164-169) [Day 185, BREAKFAST (morning)]
Memory Format: lollipops of your team color. How many licks does it take to get to the center? One...two...Three! Three licks to get to the center of the lollipop. Used 3/3 (Azure, Greed)

In this memory (right page start), Raenef gets a frisson of energy hitting him at the core. He takes a deep breath opening his eyes as though from a long sleep in the library in his domain. Eclipse opens the door, calling his name in concern from the noise of something that just happened. When he receives no response from Raenef, he crosses the floor reaching out to touch him, calling Raenef's name again.

Raenef smacks the hand away, gazing coolly at the other demon.

Rae: Such disrespect. How dare you barge in on me.

He turns then, walking from the room without looking back. He strolls down to his throne room, overhearing Erutis and the cleric whispering to each other.

Cle: Hey. Doesn't that baby Demon Lord look like he ate a bad banana?
Eru: He doesn't seem like himself, does he?

Raenef smirks at their whisperings because they amuse him before he goes on to settle himself on his throne. Eclipse comes in a while later, speaking to him.

Ecl: Master Raenef, since we will be departing for the demon world tomorrow... might I suggest you turn in early?

This irritates Raenef severely, and he rises, turning away from Eclipse and walking off.

Rae: Don't tell me what to do. Such impudence.

Then he teleports himself to another area of the castle without acknowledging Eclipse further.

+ cool disdain for people telling him what to do
+ amusement at people whispering about him
+ lordly demean

-- And Pitch won't actually remember any of this. :D;; Anyone else who takes the memory will get the full thing though.
-- This is one of "other Raenef"'s memories, from the time before he was actually supposed to awaken. Whether it was because of that too early bit or because Raenef IV later erases the memory from Raenef V's head, is unknown. Other Raenef will however remember this, and the memory still exists. It's just that the innocent Raenef can't access it in his head :3c
-- Can a person start table flipping their own memories and skills? Because Raenef is going to be pretty damn close when he takes this one.
-- WHY DO I KEEP GETTING BROKEN MEMORIES?!?!


[09] Eclipse's loyalty / "Is there food available in this domain place?" (v3 41-51) [Day 185, Morning]
Memory Format: an orange blossom that has five petals. Pick one to view your memory. They wither after four days. Uses 1/5

In this memory (right page start), Raenef has a bit of a bad start, coming awake in a daze to see guards frozen in ice(?) in front of him, and he almost loses consciousness again. Another guard approaches Eclipse though.

Guard: You! Did you use your magic to save that boy? Who are you? What do you seek here?
Ecl: I am Eclipse, Demon of the Third Order. I desire the freedom of the thieves.
Guard: Wha--? What concern is the Thief Guild to a demon?
Ecl: My only concern... is my master's desire.

Raenef has fully recovered from his wooziness at this time and is just as shocked as the rest of the town at Eclipe's words.

Guard A: A top-ranking demon's master... could only be a Demon Lord! Release those men.
Guard B: But... sir?
Guard A: I said release them!
Guard B: Yes, sir!

And so the guards released the thieves and the townspeople dispersed with the rising of the sun until eventually only Eclipse and Raenef were left standing in the town's square.

Rae: Mister... um... are you really a demon? I thought demons would be scarier.
Ecl: Don't call me mister. My name is Eclipse. I hate being called "mister."
Rae: Eclipse, Eclipse, Eclipse.
Ecl: It's alright, sire.
Rae: Huh? What did you just call me?

Raenef is startled and even more so when Eclipse take a knee before him, bowing his head and taking his head to kiss the back of his hand. When he looks up again, he meets Raenef's eyes.

Ecl: You are the Demon Lord Raenef the Fifth, King of Demons. I call you "sire" because you are my liege.

Raenef is understandably completely unsure at this turn of events, and Eclipse bows his head again.

Ecl: Please accept me as your humble servant... and let me accompany you to your domain.

Raenef is still in a bit of a daze because things are going very quickly here, but... he's a survivor first and foremost.

Rae: Wow. Um... is there food available in this domain place?
Ecl: Yes.
Rae: And I don't have to steal it?
Ecl: No, sire. Of course not.

Even as Eclipse begins to feel his doom settling about him at these questions, Raenef takes Eclipse's hand in both of his, beaming.

Rae: You've got yourself a deal, mist-uh... I mean, Eclipse!

+ more comfortable with the demon lord thing
+ grateful to Eclipse for saving the thieves
+ food is priority :E

-- "I thought demons were supposed to be scary." BECAUSE THEY ARE T-T
-- I guess Eclipse really is a great guy... and apparently really doesn't like being called mister :|a
-- He must be really strong too since the guards listened to him so easily.
-- ... and... I'm supposed to be his liege?
-- ... why would he want to be my servant?
-- I'm really glad he was there though...


[10] Meruhesae / "You will only burden your friends, you know." (v4 72-84) [Day 186, later evening?]
Memory Format: adorable small blue bottles of sake; each contains about three servings Uses 1/3

In this memory (left page start), Raenef, Erutis, and the Cleric are in a strange and unfamiliar room and somewhat confused about how they got there or where there actually is. (Well, Erutis and the Cleric are bickering about it in the background, but Raenef is confused.) Suddenly Raenef points at the curtains.

Rae: Do you see someone over there? Let's go.

He takes off running in that direction and the Cleric yells at him to wait.

Cle: (whispered) It might be a trap.
Rae: That's why we should check it out.
Cle: Does that make sense to you?!

But check it out they do and they come across a beautiful woman who seems just as startled to see them there.

Woman: Well, hello.

After a moment, her expression changes.

Woman: I'm a trifle vexed, oddly.
Rae: Ma'am, who are you?

Raenef words (ma'am) apparently echo around the room, and set the woman into a bit of a twitch over being called old essentially. Raenef apologizes for the echo at least.

Woman: Well, let's just say I'm a fellow demon. Demon Lord Raenef the Fifth, I presume?
Cle: A demon?
Rae: You know who I am? How did you know that, ma'am? Wow -- a pretty demon.

The woman looms a bit in irritation at Raenef's second use of "ma'am".

Woman: Well... My name isn't "ma'am," it's Meruhesae.
Rae: That's a pretty name.
Eru: We don't have time to play "getting to know you"!!
Rae: Erutis, why are you such a grump?
Cle: Are you threatened now that you're not the only girl?
Eru: I AM NOT THREATENED!!
Rae to Cle: I think you touched a nerve.
Cle to Rae: She sure can yell.

Erutis hits them both.

Cle: So... we are definitely in a dream. And the entity residing in this dream is the owner of it. That means... that demon woman is the dreamer?
Mer: Ding, ding! Very clever, Successor to the High Cleric of Rased. Someone's been paying attention.
Cle: Arrrggghhh!! This can't be happening!! Why did it have to be a demon's dream?!! Now we're really stuck!!! Oh mighty god Rased!! Your servant will soon be in your company. Here I come!

While the Cleric is ranting, Meruhesae is at first startled and then amused by his antics. ("He's a weird on.") Then Erutis kicks the cleric yelling at him.

Eru: Shut up! What's your problem?
Cle: If this was a normal woman's dream, we could have persuaded the dreamer that we're not by-products of her subconscious -- that we weren't figments of their imagination, but separate beings -- and asked her to use her creative instincts to expel us from the dream. But we're in a demon's dream.
Mer: A demon's dream. Demons' dreams and temperaments are different from mortals'. Rather than allow trespassers to leave... we choose to absorb them into the fabric of our dreams.

Her words and the implications are startling to say the least.

Eru: Absorb them...? We're going to become part of the tapestry... of this woman's dream? No!! I won't stand for it!
Rae: Wait -- dreams are Demon Lord Krayon's realm, right? Eclipse told me that to leave a certain realm, you need permission from its owner.
Eru: In other words, we can get out with Demon Lord Krayon's approval. That's it!!

Erutis suddenly turns on her heel and plunges into a portal in the dream.

Rae: Erutis!! Where are you going?!

And the cleric takes off after her.

Rae: Chris!! You guys... wait for me!
Mer: Going so soon?

Raenef who was heading towards the portal after them, hesitates at her words.

Mer: Your powers are useless in this world. You will only burden your friends, you know. You know I'm right, don't you?

Raenef doesn't respond, but there is a weight in him at the truth of the words and a rising anger which turns into a glare back at Meruhesae before he takes off again, plunging into the portal himself.

+ Meruhesae is another demon
+ Another part of Krayon's dream realm?
+ a growing anger at being useless to his friends
+ "ma'am" :D;;

-- Oh, hey the Cleric's name is Chris, I guess. :U
-- Even though this is Meruhesae's dream, dreams are Krayon's realm. That's a little confusing but good to have a way out of it.
-- Demons' dreams are different than mortals' and a demon will generally choose to integrate an intruder rather than release them from a dream.


[11] creatures of heaven / "The hour has come for your death!!" (v5 162-175) [Day 187, just after Elevensies]
Memory Format: a small vial of water, with a ribbon in your team's color wrapped around it. Drink to receive, not shareable. Uses 1/1

In this memory (left page start), Raenef, Erutis, and Chris are talking together at Raenef's palace. It's a pretty typical day and a pretty typical bickering between them, until noon, and suddenly there's a jolt through Raenef as someone enters his domain. Above them, a heavenly creature (angel, god) hovers in the air on multiple wings glaring down at him.

Rae: What's happening?
Chr: The creatures of heaven! They're so bright. Is it noon already?
Eru: Creatures of heaven? Those are the gods?
CoH: The time has come. Child who holds the name of Raenef... your corporeal life will continue. But the time has come for the fulfillment of the curse upon your name.

Raenef is very, VERY confused by what he's talking about.

CoH: Lo, Demon Lord!!
Rae: What is he talking about? I didn't do anything!!
Chr: Wait! Stop!! What are you doing to Raenef?!

There is a brief, quiet whisper in the back of Raenef's consciousness: It is my time now. Just as the energy from the Creature of Heaven hits him full force.

CoH: The hour has come for your death!!!

... and then everything goes black.

+ SHRIEK
+ Creatures of Heaven = gods?!

-- WHAT IS HAPPENING?!?!
-- WHAT CURSE?!
-- DID I JUST DIE?!!?!
-- and he's going to fall unconscious again after this one...

Note: had this memory been received after the "Awakening" skill, this would have involved a shift from Innocent Raenef to Alter Raenef.


[S03] SKILL: thievery [Day 187, Night]
SKILL Format: a big, juicy, perfectly ripe blackberry. Used 1/1 times.

Details: Mundane skill get! He can now steal stuff! He's got the basic knowledge and skill of thieving. He can pickpocket, sneak thief, pose as an excellent distraction, snatch and dash, etc.

-- '^' can has stealing stuffs now


[12] first kiss / "She's a little kinky, huh?" (v3 97-115) [Day 191, mid-morning]
Memory Format: VERY SHINY GOLD STAR STICKERS, six to a sheet. Uses 1/6

In this memory (left page start), things start off with Eclipse and Raenef speaking in Raenef's office/study area.

Ecl: We must return the offering as soon as possible.
Rae: !? Really? Return her? Why? You said the task at hand [returning an offering] isn't done.
Ecl: I'm certain that someone will come looking for her.
Rae: Why?
Ecl: Generally, an offering is chosen from a poor family -- a villager's daughter. Leeche's dress, her speech, and her demeanor are unlike those of a commoner. There must be a mistake.
Rae: But you said a Demon Lord never returns anything. How can I give her back?
Ecl: Depending on the circumstances, an offering can be returned for an appropriate replacement.
Rae: Replacement?
Ecl: .... Yes. We must find a substitute.
Rae: If you say so.

About that time, a seal starts glowing in the floor of his office. Raenef and Eclipse both rise to meet the people coming through the portal, because that's what the seal is for. It's an aristocratic gentleman, a young woman, and an older retainer (probably the mage that opened the portal). They have brought with them a rather impressive pile of material goods as well.

Man: Is this the Demon Lord's castle? Is my daughter here?

Eclipse glances at Raenef with a kind of "see" expression while Raenef is a little "oh, I guess he was right again." About that time, a young girl bursts into the office with Chris following her.

Girl: Yay! A way out! Whooaa!
Chr: What is it? What's wrong?

Everyone is quiet for a moment gazing at the girl.

Girl: Daddy!
Dad: Leeche! Who said you could go to a Demon Lord's castle?! What were you thinking?! I'm disappointed in you!
Lee: I'm sorry, Daddy.

The castle group (Raenef, Eclipse, Chris, and Erutis) watch as the dad spanks the ever loving crap out of his daughter for some time, kind of mostly in a state of stunned silence.

Rae: I can't believe she's just taking her punishment.
Chr: He is her dad. And she's still a little kid.
Lee: Who are you calling a little kid?!! You dolt!
Dad: *smacks her on the head* Who else here is a kid besides you?
Lee: Ow. Everyone's ganging up on me.

After things calm down a little and composure is regained a little, the father speaks formally again.

Dad: I leave this young lady who was the original offering... with you. And I will take Leeche back with me. As an apology, we add these jewels to our offering. And as that you approve our request... Sir Demon Lord.

The man bows low... to Eclipse... which causes Chris and Erutis to burst out laughing much to the confusion of the man.

Chr: It's a record!! Not ONE person guessed correctly!!

Eclipse sighs heavily and speaks up.

Ecl: Your jewels and your apology are accepted, but... we desire that your offering leave with you.
Dad: But--? Why? A Demon Lord refusing an offering! This has never happened before.
Ecl: The real Demon Lord... stands before you here. I regret explaining myself like this.

Eclipse motions to Raenef, who beams a sparkling grin and greets the man with a cheerful "hello!" which... floors the retinue ... and is only made worse by Eclipse's quiet reprimand of Raenef.

Ecl: Hello?! Can't you feign some guile?
Rae: Oh! Hehe!

A-after taking some time to let that parse into their heads, the man bows to Raenef this time.

Dad: Very well. We'll take back the original offering with us too.
Lee: Wait! *curtsies to Raenef* Thank you for your hospitality during my short stay. I apologize for any inconvenience I may have caused you.

This kind of floors the castle group in turn, coming from her, but she continues... "And..." and then steps forward, cupping Raenef's cheek and leaning up on tiptoe to kiss him on the lips.

THIS SHORT CIRCUITS RAENEF AND HER FATHER AND ECLIPSE GRAB EACH OF THEM RESPECTIVELY AND DRAG THEM AWAY FROM EACH OTHER.

Lee: I like you, Raenef. And you're dreamy to boot! You're a kind Demon Lord, so I forgive you. Wait ten years for me? I'll grow up to be a beautiful woman and become your bride.

Raenef is at a loss for words and Eclipse is completely frazzled, but Erutis nudges Raenef with a "You lucky dog." A-apparently the orz sentiment is shared by Leeche's father as well, and as they return through the portal, she calls out again.

Lee: I won't forgive you if you two-time me!! If I hear you've accepted an offer from another village, I'll beat you to within an inch of your life!

And... then the group is gone... and there is much... "well then" on the castle's residents.

Chr (probably): Ooh! She's a little kinky, huh?

Rae: Does this mean that I'm betrothed?
Ecl: Only you can decide. Whether to grill her or boil her.
Chr: A bossy wife and a Demon Lord half-wit. Brilliant! The beginning of demon downfall. And the clerics of Rased will rise!

Chris' mutterings piss Eclipse off and he sets Chris' mouth on fire. About the same time, Erutis is nudging Raenef again.

Eru: So, Raenef, don't you like Leeche?
Rae: It's not that I don't like her...
Eru: What's the trouble, then?

And then she heads off laughing about the "hilarious couple" which ticks Raenef off: "Just because it's not their problem, they're making fun." Eclipse, however, just smiles for Raenef.

Ecl: According to Leeche, herself, you've got a decade to mull it over.
Rae: Ten years. Yeah. I'll think about it again in ten years.

+ gdi stop making fun of me guys >(
+ comfort in semi-serious discussions with Eclipse
+ f-first kiss /////////////////
+ demon lords do not return gifts unless there are extenuating circumstances
+ everyone they meet thinks Eclipse is the Demon Lord
+ offerings are generally from poor families :|a

-- ... m-my first kiss was a little girl... ///
-- ... who kind of declared herself my future wife...
-- ... am I really betrothed?
-- ... ten years is not long enough...


[13] lessons!! / "Can you stay with me forever?" (v1 38-54 possibly split) [Day 194, afternoon]
Memory Format: small clay jars, no bigger than your fist. Drop them on the ground and shatter them to view your memory. Uses 1/1

In this memory (page start to here), Raenef starts out getting slapped five times for getting some memorization wrong... apparently this was a thing agreed upon by himself and Eclipse, but damn it it hurt! They proceed with the lessons for how to be a demon lord. Raenef... is... depressingly cheerful about the things he's memorized.

In the middle of their lesson, Eclipse suddenly bursts out: "A DEMON LORD CALLED A "CLOWN"!! WHAT AN INSULT!"

And Raenef is kind of... ah... idly wondering why Eclipse is so obsessed about what happened.

Eclipse calms down and announces that the Demon Lord etiquette lesson is over for the day and that it is time for Black Magic lessons. He asks how much magical energy Raenef has gathered, and after some thought, Raenef replies that he's gathered about 40 mezraez. Eclipse gives him a "well done" before going off on "Exactly how did you collect 40 mezraez?! You don't need more than 8 at this level!"

Raenef gives and "oops" explanation, but questions why more isn't better. (Eclipse has to help him remember the saying.) Kind of huffy, Eclipse relents just telling him to not gather so much next time. Then the Black Magic lessons begin:

"Only a creature with dark characteristics can use black magic. No one else can. Some exceptional individuals without dark characteristics might be able to get it to work, if they try really hard. But the results wouldn't be worth the effort. And of course, you shouldn't overwork yourself.

"Your characteristics depend on what subjects you first got in touch with after your birth. The five possible ones are: Fire, Water, Wind, Darkness, and Light. On rare occasions, the second subject may sometimes dominate over the first one, and this will then be the person's first quality."

Raenef starts off the explanation by taking notes, but eventually falls asleep as Eclipse is talking... which gets him yelled at... and hit again. Eclipse gives up on the lecturing and offers to work with Raenef practicing, to which Raenef eagerly agrees.

They teleport to the garden and Eclipse does a little more lecturing.

"The magic begins when you activate the mezraez you've collected in your body, and it's completed when your mezraez has become what you wanted it to become. To get the magic to work, you need to focus your entire soul. If you don't, there might be some nasty side effects."

At this point, Raenef works on figuring things out by asking questions.

Rae: "Hm... so I just need to concentrate? ("Yes") No incantation?"

Ecl: "Normally you see warlocks cast spells using rime or a staff. But you don't need any incantations for black magic. Black magic completely depends on your qualities and mezraez... that's why we don't need any staves or wands."

... And then Eclipse gave up on trying to discuss philosophy with Raenef and decided to focus on practical things... like how to Dark Arrow.... which Raenef thinks is a lame name... only to find out that Eclipse invented it '-';; oops.

He also gets a bit of history behind the Dark Arrow and consequently the previous Lord Raenef:

"The previous Demon Lord was very wise, but his talent was mediocre so he solved it like this: He taught the humans black magic. Eclipse helped by allowing them to use the Dark Arrow. The humans turned on each other and the kingdoms fell. The damage was so great that, even now, after 400 years, Black Magic is still forbidden."

Eclipse tells Raenef that he won't repeat the explanation, and Raenef after a moment asks if Eclipse is sulking which he says "no" to... and proceeds to continue sulking prompting a:

"How... how dare you sulk in my presence?"

Which... startles Eclipse into laughter. "How can I be angry with you?"

And he smiles... which has Raenef blushing.... >///>

Rae: Eclipse?
Ecl: Yes?
Rae: I won't disappoint you... I will do my best to become a wonderful Demon Lord.
Ecl: Wonderful? =_=;;;
Rae: Can you stay with me til I'm ready? Can you stay with me forever?

A long moment passes with Eclipse just staring at Raenef before he finally answers: "Yes... if that is your wish."

+ Eclipse sulks '-'
+ Eclipse laughing made him blushy happy... "Why can't I look him in the eyes?"
+ 1000 Eclipse dere

-- "Every month a Demon Lord picks a new village to terrorize, plunder, and in the end destroy."
-- ... Eclipse really likes destruction :|a
-- If humiliated by someone you don't know: "I say Ha! and laugh at him. After that, I recite an easy spell to make him powerless, so he can feel the pain completely. Then I kill him."
-- As a Demon Lord, my qualities are dark :|a
-- Dark Arrow -- 8 mezraez input yields 50 mezraez of destructive force


[S04] SKILL: teleportation [Day 196, afternoon]
SKILL Format: a tiny Jolly Roger. Wave it to receive your skill. Used 1/1 times.

Details: What it says on the packaging. This gives Raenef the ability to move from point A to point B via instantaneous transportation of matter.

How it works: "If you want to move around the castle, you just have to think of yourself at your destination and say 'go'."

There may be some bitty incantation but mostly it's "picture yourself here and apply magical intention".

-- :U COOL!


[14] Reminiscing / "The strings of fate bind them together." (v7 39-41) [Day 197, late morning ]
Memory Format: a little book with five empty pages. Pull a page out to get a memory! Uses 1/5

In this memory (right page start), Raenef and Eclipse are sitting in the library or office, and Raenef starts talking cheerfully to him (probably disrupting lessons).

Rae: Do you remember the first time we met?
Ecl: What?
Rae: Do you know how many times we ran into each other that day?
Ecl: No, should I?
Rae: There's an old saying that when two people meet the way we did, the strings of fate bind them together. If you run across the same person three times in one day, it's not coincidence... it's what you would call "destiny."
Ecl: Destiny, yes...
Rae: Uh huh. You and I ran into each other three times that day coincidentally. That's why I believe our meeting was destined. Hee!
Ecl: Is that so?

Raenef is quiet happy by this, and there's a parting thought: That our futures were destined to intersect...

+ dere for Eclipse (i'm giving up on numbers... i'm pretty sure it will end in infinity)

-- If you meet someone 3 times in a day it's destiny! :O


[15] evil twin / "No, he is not a false Raenef this time." (v5 176-198) [Day 202, Morning]
Memory Format: a large-ish candy, in your team color. It tastes sweet when you lick it, but doesn't convey the memory—it also doesn't break if you chew on it, or . . . hit it with a hammer. You have to swallow it whole. Uses 1/1

In this memory (left page start), Raenef is "awake" and blocked some kind of major attack by the creatures of heaven. Chris starts rambling about the curse on the Raenef name:

Chr: As I see it, since the former Raenef is already dead, the curse should have been ineffective. I expected the gods to appear because they couldn't locate the soul of Raenef IV but -- that look... that look... that look is definitely... WHY DOES RAENEF LOOK LIKE HIS EVIL TWIN FROM BEFORE?!!
Eru: Oh calm down.

Raenef is only halfway listening to Chris though, and only taking partial notice of the creatures of heaven. His attention is on Eclipse and the man standing with him. Erutis is the first to notice.

Eru: What are you staring at? Eclipse or that young man with him?

Raenef doesn't even bother answering, he just launches an attack at the man.

Eru: What are you doing?
Chr: Just as I thought. That Raenef is the evil twin.

Except the young man manages to block the attack easily, and responds to Chris since Raenef isn't going to bother.

Man: No, he is not a false Raenef this time. He is awakened. He is far more complicated than his predecessor.
Eru: Who is that? He blocked Raenef's magic.
Chr: Wow, it didn't even faze him.

Eclipse, standing with the young man, looks deeply troubled by things.

Eru: Hey Eclipse! Does Raenef know that young man? The atmosphere between those two is chilly.
Ecl: ... He is the former Demon Lord Raenef.
Eru: Of course, the former Demon Lord Raenef.
Chr: Just as I thought.
Eru: WHAT?!
Chr: What a dimwit.

Chris and Erutis devolve into a shouting match over the living state of the former Demon Lord, and Eclipse tells them to please shut the fuck up he needs to concentrate (more nicely... which is more terrifying really). While this is going on however, the two Raenefs have been facing each other quietly, and finally Raenef IV breaks the silence.

RIV: You look as though you know what has happened to you.
Rae: I am not an idiot.
Ecl: Master Raenef. What is going on? You died in my arms, Master Raenef.
Riv: Why are you so surprised Eclipse? Did you have so little faith in me as to believe I'd die from a simple curse? At one point I mentioned time.
Ecl: You told me to adapt myself to time.
Riv: According to the curse, today was to have brought my death.
Ecl: How? You died many years ago. Are you saying that your death years ago was not due to the curse?
Riv: The curse... was tied to the name of Raenef. It ingeniously manipulated time. They shortened my life by 3,500 years, and brought forth my son from the distant future to this time. As such, my son was forced to exist in an unnatural time frame... where ultimately, he would wipe himself out.

As Erutis and Chris attempt to puzzle through this, the awakened Raenef picks up the explanations.

Rae: Yes. I am a product of the future. I was brought here through time. My personality was fragmented by the journey. I obtained all of Raenef IV's magical abilities and intelligence... while my innocent self arrived with only the magical powers within his body. That is what the creatures of heaven were scheming for. Because of the split, I will eventually go mad and destroy myself. For a Demon Lord to lose his mind is to forfeit his existence.

Riv: You understand. If things proceed as planned, within a short span of time you will die. And from the distant future your heir will be drawn. However, magic is temporally unstable. And, during the long span of time required for your heir to arrive, our magic will undoubtedly dissipate into space. Ultimately, the Demon Lord Raenef will disappear completely from this world.

Erutis, Chris, and Eclipse seem shocked by this revelation, but Raenef is not having worked out this already.

Rae: I understand. That is not what's important. What did you mean today was supposed to bring the hour of your death?

Raenef IV ignores the question though and turns to address Chris.

Riv: Let's see. You, young cleric.
Chr: Me?
Eru: Do you see any other clerics around here?
Riv: You are a servant of Rased... and a friend of Raenef, aren't you?
Chr: What's it to you?
Riv: If you wish to save that child, use the power of your god to attack him.

Cue stunned silence and end of memory.

+ WTFERY IS THIS?!?!
+ fear
+ confusion

NOTE!!!! This is effectively an AlterRaenef memory. Because it is an Awakened memory though, InnocentRaenef is not unconscious during the memory. However, he is not in control of his body, and can only watch things happening in a dreamlike state, so all impressions are slightly muted.

-- The Raenef name was cursed... the previous Raenef... Raenef IV... I'm Raenef V.
-- I... I looked like my evil twin? W-what evil twin?
-- Awakened? Predecessor? What?!
-- Why... is the former Demon Lord Raenef there?
-- Raenef is a hereditary name... I am Raenef because I was born Raenef.
-- Raenef IV is my father??!!!! Except I was born 3,500 years in the future and brought to the past when he died?!?!?!
-- I'm... the innocent self? I'm only half of who I should be? I... I don't understand...
-- I DON'T WANT TO GO MAD!!! I DON'T WANT TO DIE!!!!


[16] tomato nightmares / "Cool!! A giant tomato!" (v2 25-30) [Day 202, Night]
Memory Format: tiny golden cages with doors that pop open and closed! There are seven birds made of your team stone or metal inside. Seven uses – take a bird out of the cage to receive the memory! Uses 1/7

In this memory (bottom right page start), Raenef is standing in an open area, and something catches his attention. He turns around and "COOL!!! A GIANT TOMATO!" He is SUPER HAPPY to see it and it is SUPER HAPPY to see him!! It's the best dream! Only Eclipse suddenly appears behind them --

Ecl: That sort of thing... could be taken care of with just one eye.

There is a moment of panic! And Raenef tries to stop Eclipse, but he's too late! The tomato EXPLODES in a mess of interior pieces!!!!!

And Raenef jerks awake yelling for the tomato. Eclipse is standing near his bed, and obviously has been for a while waiting for him to wake up.

Ecl: Master Raenef... Are you alright?
Rae: The tomato...
Ecl: What?
Rae: Mr. Tomato.
Ecl: ..............
Rae: Poor tomato...
Ecl: ..............

... a-and eventually Eclipse calms Raenef down enough to get him back to sleep.

+ ;o; TOMATO!!!!!!!!!!!

-- Eclipse is the killer of tomatoes in his dreams ;;


[17] standing up for the guild / "I'm going to paint the town red with your blood!" (v3 8-36) [Day 205, noon]
Memory Format: five Springerle cookies. Uses 1/5

In this memory (left pages start), Raenef has pushed his way to the front of a crowd in the town square in Pulhel and comes face to face with an armed contingent of guards leading the bound up theives of the guild. Around him, the townsfolk are muttering.

TF1: The Thief's Guild doesn't looks so tough now.
TF2: Finally some justice!
TF3: Oh, he'll get what he deserves, all right!

And Raenef just stands there stunned staring at the leader of the thieves as he passes with his hands tied behind his back. ("Boss?") Suddenly one of the guards yells at one of the lagging thieves hitting him in the back with the butt of his spear.

Grd: I said MOVE IT, punk!

The thief loses his balance and falls face first to the cobblestones with a short cry of pain, and the townsfolk around Raenef laugh again in excited fervor.

TF4: Look at the big man. Who's throwing his weight around now? He looks pretty tame in his shackles.
TF5: How does it feel to be pushed around, thief?

There words strike a painful chord in Raenef, and he grits his teeth as they continue.

TF6: Take down their leader and the vermin just scatter!
TF7: Ha ha ha! Like rats under a torch!

And finally he snaps!

Rae: How can you people laugh at that?!! He's a human being! So what if he's a thief? I suppose none of you have ever done anything wrong?!

And the leader of the thieves catches Raenef's outburst and yells at him from within the circle of guards.

Bos: Shut up, you idiot!

Which... everything suddenly comes to a standstill as townsfolk and guards turn to stare at Raenef, and he has a moment of panicked realization at what he's done. One of the townsfolk points at him.

Ldy: That little rat is part of the Guild, too! You tried to slither off like a snake, didn't you?
Rae: No!
Grd: Grab the kid. We'll take him just in case.
Bos: Fool! Why are you still here?! RUN!
Rae: I... uh...

And Raenef can't because he freezes up in that instant. Finally it sinks in and he starts to run and one of the guards yells for him to be grabbed. The leader of the Guild throws himself at the guard's back though, knocking him over to give Raenef time to get away, and another guard hits him hard in the small of the back with his spear.

Grd: You shouldn't treat your hosts so rudely, tough guy!

Raenef is stopped again and watches as three guards proceed to kick the downed leader.

Rae: Stop it. LEAVE HIM ALONE!!

He grabs a stick and launches himself at the guards trying to get them away from the leader, but fighter he is not, and he catches the haft of a spear in the stomach hard for his efforts sending him to the ground.

Bos: Raenef!! Don't move!!

The guards surround him as he tries to catch his breath and get to his feet ("I failed..."), grabbing him by the hair and dragging him to his feet.

Grd: You filthy little thief. You got a death wish? Careful what you wish for.

And as the guard draws him upright, Raenef turns and pounces BITING THE SHIT OUT OF THE GUARD'S HAND >EEE

Rae: Ah tod oo do sdop hid. (I told you to stop it.)
Grd: You little weasel! Get off of me! Off!!

The guard finally manages to push Raenef off and stares at his bloody hand in disbelief that quickly turns to fury. He draws his sword startling some of the other guards ("Hey, what are you doing?"), and turns to Raenef again.

Grd: I'm going to enjoy putting you to sleep! You insolent cur!

Raenef is rather stunned, and as he backs away trips over a loose cobble falling hard to the street as the guard advances.

Bos: Raenef, get UP! Run, Raenef! GO!
Grd: I'm going to paint the town red with your blood! Off with your head!

The guard brings his sword down at a frozen Raenef and between one heartbeat and the next, the guard's torso explodes into a bloody mess, hands and shattered sword flying off in a rain of blood. An absolutely petrified Raenef just stares at the carnage along with the rest of the utterly silent crowd, before the air is split with Raenef's terrified scream.

Rae: AHHHHH!! How did I do that?!

At which point, he passes out of shock.

+ SCREAM
+ FIGHT -- SCREAM
+ WHAT JUST HAPPENED?!

-- Yet another memory that will have Raenef passing out by the end.
-- He loved the thieves. They were his family. Hearing people talk about them like they were trash -- less than animals was more than he could take.
-- The leader got hurt trying to give him a chance to escape.
-- HE WILL BY THE HELLS BITE THE SHIT OUT OF PEOPLE IF HE HAS TO >(
-- O-oh god did I just kill someone? I just killed someone didn't I?
-- SCREAM


[18] rival / "Within our world, many lords desire the services of the demon Eclipse." (v3 176-180 | v4 12-21) [Day 206, after noon]
Memory Format: a sticker. Uses 1/1

In this memory (left page start), Raenef is standing with Chris and Erutis when suddenly something pings on his attention.

Rae: Something's coming.
Eru: What -- what is this? It's energy is very strong!
Chr: It's a really powerful demon.
Eru?: A demon lord?!

Raenef is a little ??? and !!! over their reactions and then his attention is drawn upwards where indeed a figure suddenly appears, hovering in the air above them. He's rather fabulous with curly blond hair and haughty demean. He seems rather nonplussed by any of them and casually addresses them.

Dmn: Is this the castle of the Demon Lord Raenef? Bit of a dump, isn't it?
Eru: Watch it stranger. Nobody asked for your advice.

Erutis is kind of grr at the new arrival, but Eclipse arrives just then, appearing just in front of the three of them. He inclines his head slightly in a very small bow.

Ecl: It has been a long time... Demon Lord Krayon of Egae.
Kry: Indeed it has, Eclipse.
Ecl: .....
Rae: The Demon Lord of Egae?
Chr: Another demon lord? So that's why I sensed so much power from him.

Krayon seems to enjoy this reaction as he hovers in the air above them, his cape billowing about him, and Raenef... ruins it a bit.

Rae: Um... Can I ask you a question?
Ecl: Master Raenef--
Rae: Mister, why's your cloak billowing out? There's no wind today.

This question sets Erutis to laughing hysterically and causes Chris and Eclipse to die a little inside, but despite the indignity of it, Krayon actually answers.

Kry: Well... what if I told you that nature recognizes greatness... and seeks to magnify it? Thus nature is using the wind to flutter my cloak.

Which none of them buy... at all.

Kry: No? I see I can't fool you. Sylphs cease.
Eru: Sylphs?! That punk was using spirit magic to make an entrance?
Chr: That "punk" is powerful enough to do as he pleases.
Ecl: To what do we owe this honor?
Kry: ...... Is that the fifth Demon Lord Raenef? It's not enough that you decline the invitation to serve me... declaring that you will only serve the Demon Lord Raenef. Adding to the insult, I find... my rival is a child?

Krayon settles to the ground as he speaks and stalks over to study Raenef, passing by Eclipse as he does. Eclipse remains silent though in answer to whatever question Krayon was posing. Krayon continues to be unimpressed.

Kry: I see I have no choice. I am going to have to put him to the test, aren't I? Within our world, many Lords desire the services... of the demon Eclipse. Shall we see if you are a worthy master?
Ecl: Stop! Wait, no--

Whatever Eclipse was trying to say is lost as Krayon's upraised hand and surge of magic transports the flinching trio away.

+ other demon lords? :|a
+ kind of gaudy isn't he?
+ sensing other demons within his domain

-- Eclipse is ... that desirable as a servant? o_0
-- Oh -- so this is why I was in that weird realm.
-- What did he mean testing me?
-- Using sylphs as stage magic is kind of silly. :x


[19] Lessons Magic Manipulation / "Only a person who is fully aware of his own magic is able to perform manipulation." (v6 116-119) [Day 208, mid-afternoon]
Memory Format: a black rose stem (with no head or leaves), with five sharp thorns. Prick your finger to view the memory. Uses 1/5

In this memory (left page start), Raenef and Eclipse are in the middle of a magic lesson. Raenef is tryin (and failing) to perform the Dark Arrow spell.

Rae: Uh... Arrow? Dark Arrow. Dark Arrow!

Predictably, aaaaaabsolutely nothing happens. orz Apparently they've been working on the Dark Arrow for a while because Eclipse is kind of put out with the progress...

Ecl: Um... no. Wielding magic is more than memorizing the words. You must feel it within your body.

Raenef kind of sheepishly asks if it's okay for him to just not do magic, and then at Eclipse's ire bursts out with a "Kidding!" Then Eclipse approaches and reaches up to touch Raenef's forehead which pops him back into a startled calm/serious state.

Ecl: Do you feel it?
Rae: Feel it? Feel what? Wait... Something... is flowing through me.
Ecl: What you feel is my magic, now within you. You have your own. It is of tremendous proportions and very different from mine. You must identify the magic that is foreign to your body. Measuring your opponent's magical power requires pouring your own magical power into your opponent. It is a dangerous maneuver, and if your opponent is stronger... it can cost you your life. If your opponent can isolate the foreign power in his body, he can destroy it. That is what we refer to as Magic Manipulation. However, this is probably too difficult for you.
Rae: Aw, you had my hopes up.
Ecl: Only a person who is fully aware of his own magic is able to perform manipulation.

+ sucks at magic =_=;;
+ Eclipse ////

-- Magic must be felt to be used.
-- Guess that explains why Dark Arrow and stuff still won't work here even though I've remembered doing it. :|a
-- ... I wish Eclise was here. ;^;


[20] Mental discussions / "Will you shut up??" (v7 58-60) [Day 214, night ]
Memory Format: a scrap of paper in your team color. eat it to receive your memory. Uses 1/1

In this memory (left page start), Raenef is sound asleep in his shared room in Pulhel, sleeping peacefully. AND THEN RAENEF IV AND ALTER!RAENEF START UP A CONVERSATION IN HIS HEAD:

Riv: Eclipse, your intuition is keen. You found him quickly.
A!R: What will you do now Eclipse?
Riv: All we require is an opportunity.
A!R: An opportunity?
Riv: An opportunity to wake that child... something to wake him...

AND THEN RAENEF WAKES UP YELLING SCARING THE SHIT OUT OF HIS ROOMMATE

Rae: WILL YOU SHUT UP?? I'm trying to get some sleep.
Rmt: Raenef? What's wrong?

Except that Raenef is wobbling already and collapses right back into sleep.

+ ZZZZZ

-- No, really, he doesn't get to remember the conversation happening. He just remembers waking up yelling over a dream... and falling right back to sleep.



[S05] SKILL: dark arrow [Day 216, afternoon b endgame]
SKILL Format: a twig with a small blueberry on it. Used 1/1 times.

Details:
Ecl: The magic begins when you activate the mezraez you've collected in your body and it's completed when your mezraez has become what you wanted it to become. To get magic to work, you need to focus your entire soul. If you don't, there might be some nasty side effects. ... You don't need any incantations for black magic.

Basic magic attack. The Dark Arrow. (Invented by Eclipse.) Has the mezraez input of 8 with an output equivalent of 50. (A whole lot of bang for your buck.)

Raenef in Aather is only able to carry approximately 32 mezraez. In other words, he can use Dark Arrow approximately 4 times if he hasn't been using other spells, unlike in canon where he tends to spam Dark Arrow. He uses it 6 times in a span of about 2 minutes at one point without any signs of being tapped out, exhausted, or even concerned with his mezraez levels. While Dark Arrow is primarily an offensive spell, it can be used as a defense to cancel out other high level energy attacks. (Presumably if one spell was stronger than the other, it would overtake the other spell and continue at a much lessened level.)

The energy output of Dark Arrow will also be halved in Aather (or to varying degrees depending on what's going on). Normally, the Dark Arrow is able to easily take out buildings and a collection of them pretty well level a mountain. (It was an accident!) In Aather, we'll be playing this by need and comedic circumstances, but he probably won't be destroying buildings any time soon. However, Dark Arrow will remain one of his most destructive spells.

Canon example of it in action:


-- SO HAPPY YOU GUYS ;o;!!!!!! NOT GOING TO BE USELESS!!!!! (hopefully we won't run into any more of the copycat monsters because that could get horrible :'D!!!!!)
-- now to go level a mushroom grove >)


[21] Eclipse's rescue / "I've been worried, little master." (v2 98-135) [Day 218, afternoon]
Memory Format: a small wooden box in your team color. Uses 1/7

In this memory (left page start), Raenef and Chris are standing across from each other. There are signs of damage from major powers being unleashed in the area, and Chris suddenly glares at him furiously.

Chr: Why didn't my Holy Bolt kill you?
Rae: ! I don't know. The Holy Bolt hit me, but I'm fine.

Raenef is terribly confused as much as Chris is angry that he's not dead, and there's an older man with them that seems to be with Chris.

Chr: Impossible!! How could you survive my Holy Bolt?!! Unless you really are a normal person..?

And then the old man literally kicks Chris in the ass to get him to shut up.

Old: He used the Dark Arrow and nearly destroyed the Temple of Rased.
Chr: But my Holy Bolt didn't even faze him!! If he really was a demon, it should have killed him!!
Old: Have you ever seen a LEADER defeated in one blow?
Chr: But I'm a SUPERGENIUS and the HERO.
Old: Don't kid yourself.
Chr: Taking down that twerp in one blow should have been a piece of cake--

And then Chris gets a foot planted in his face this time to shut him up. Then it slips into a bit of meta with Chris arguing with the old guy about who's the hero of the series and citing image size in the previous chapter that the artist steps in to admit she was just bored and get kicked some. It EVENTUALLY leads to Chris deciding that if he wants to be he protagonist, he just has to kill of the current one...

Chr: If I get rid of the protagonist...
Rae: Huh?
Chr: By the power of holy Rased...
Old: Chris!!
Chr: ...HOLY BOLT!!

AND THEN RAENEF IS DESTROYED!!!! no.

Eclipse shows up to shield him easily from the Holy Bolt, which... stuns the hell out of Raenef.

Ecl: What... is going on here? The Temple of Rased!

Eclipse is NOT HAPPY about what's going on or finding Raenef in the Temple and kind of just squeezes the life out of the Holy Bolt, which Chris takes offense to and is kind of angry and shocked over.

While Eclipse is taking in the signs of the battle and the circumstances, Raenef finally bursts of :UUUUUU.

Rae: Eclipse!! What are you doing here, Eclipse?
Ecl: Master Raenef, did you think I would not come after you?
Rae: I would rather you just got angry with me.
Ecl: Running away from home!! What were you thinking?!

And then Chris decides to break up the "loving" reunion.

Chr: Who are you?! How could you block my Holy Bolt?

Eclipse uses GLARE -- it's not so effective.

Chr: Master! Do you know who that guy is? How could he pop out of nowhere and block my Holy Bolt with just one hand?!

Master (old man) uses GLARE -- it is super effective.

Old: Quiet. He is not someone you should trifle with.

There is some serious vibes filling the are as the two older people evaluate each other. Raenef is mostly confused and Chris is mostly still furious. The old guy puts a hand out, stepping in front of Chris.

Old: Why have you broken the covenant and entered our domain?
Ecl: Ha! Why am I here? Tell me... Why is this Demon Lord here? There... The demon lord summoning sign... It appears you are the instigators.

Raenef inner mind theatre is full of baws because Eclipse looks furious and he figures he's dead meat.

Old: That... would be the work of this feckless idiot.
Chr: [pulled forward by the ear] Ow that hurts!
Old: However to be snared by such an amateurish summons... would imply that your side has problems of its own.

And that was a zinger for Eclipse. There is a moment of silence between the two adults before Eclipse responds.

Ecl: Our side has not learned to repel that sort of magic as of yet, no.
Old: This idiot has created numerous headaches for our side, but... it appears your charge grieves you too.

... Mentor woes bonding moment.

Chris suddenly launches into an arrogant speech about being a super genius and how he'll just destroy the demon lord anyway and it will be the start of his reputation... And the old guy beats the shit out of him in a most impressive and shocking way to the demon observers.

Old: Harumph... I'm sorry you had to see that.
Ecl: Yes, well... I'm sure you remember the nonaggression pact between the clerics and the demons. I'm sure you're aware that at this high rank, even a minor scuffle could jeopardize the treaty.
Old: Yes. Of course, it was this idiot who initiated this predicament, but I think it's wise for you to overlook our transgression. I believe it would be to our mutual advantage, don't you?
Ecl: ....... Do you mean to suggest we act as if nothing happened?

The old man smiles and Eclipse finally gives into it with a sigh.

Ecl: Shall we get going then, Master Raenef?
Rae: Huh? But... I...

Raenef has a lot of feels about this and internal monologs a bit: I... I said I'd return when I'd proven myself and... it's not like I've become a great demon lord yet...

And then Eclipse reaches over to lay a hand on his head and smiles.

Ecl: I've been worried, Little Master.

And Raenef is suddenly blushy and ALL THE FEELS FOR ECLIPSE IN THAT MOMENT. Eclipse turns away though he continues speaking.

Ecl: And whether you are a great demon lord or not, Master Raenef, you are our demon lord. If a demon lord is not in his castle, who will his subjects serve? I will await your return.

And then Eclipse teleports out of there and Raenef raises his hand to his forehead where Eclipse touched him and just... smiles so happily because Eclipse dere!!!!!

Rae: Heh ♥ I'd better be going!

+ Eclipse had to rescue him again.
+ plus infinity Eclipse dere
+ endless Eclipse dere loop

-- He had run away because he wanted to prove that he could be a great demon lord?
-- Eclipse came looking for him.
-- Eclipse wanted him to come home and didn't care if he wasn't great yet.
-- I think Chris was really trying to kill me...
-- Why do my friends always start out trying to kill me? ;^;


[22] intervention / "It is not yet time for your awakening." (v5 38-47) [Day 221, noon]
Memory Format: brass feathers. Spin the quill between your hands/paws/tentacles to receive the memory. Uses 1/3

In this memory (left page start), AlterRaenef is asleep in his bed, and there's a slight creak as the door opens. He comes awake immediately alert and aware, and slightly furious at the intrusion.

Rae: Show yourself!!

It turns out to be the Magic Book, who... looks kind of scared to death.

MBk: Er... it's me, sire. I've been commanded to return you to your original state, master.

Raenef glares and then laughs.

Rae: Ha! Hahaha!
MBk: M-Master Raenef?
Rae: Very funny. My original state, eh? How dare you?! Did you think I would quietly submit myself to regression? You've forgotten your place, demon. If you're that eager to die, then I shall oblige you.

Raenef gathers energy to kill the book and the book kind of squeaks and calls for help when a voice speaks from behind Raenef.

???: Your anger is misdirected, child. He was merely obeying my orders... Demon Lord Raenef V.

This actually startles the hell out of Raenef and he turns an icy glare on the man behind him, whom he recognizes by sight as being Raenef IV.

Rae: But -- how...? How is it possible for you to be here?

Raenef IV gives him a level gaze... almost???! sympathetic if one squints at it right under low lighting.

Riv: My poor child... What began with me 150 years ago... is now visited upon you.
Rae: I don't understand. Didn't you die?

Raenef IV is silent before he starts drawing a magic symbol in the air before him.

Riv: It is not time for your awakening.

He starts the incantation, and Raenef protests a bit in a panic.

Rae: No, don't--!

And then the spell hits him and he's thrown back to sleep.

+ fury at the presumption of an underling
+ cold mocking amusement at the idea of killing him for his insolence
+ startled confusion and uncertainty at Raenef IV's appearance
+ a little fear and anger at being sealed again

-- A-another blank memory for the innocent Raenef. Again, other people who take the memory will be able to know what happens.
-- He will probably take the memory to Prince or one of his other trusted people. He really does not like that he gets memories like this back. They kind of scare him a little.


[23] Raenef IV / "The former Demon Lord Raenef understood the details of his curse..." (v5 64-83) [Day 224, night]
Memory Format: an orange. You have to eat the whole thing to get the memory. Uses 1/1

In this memory (left page start), Raenef spends the first part of it watching Chris walking around... he passes Raenef's locations three times before he finally speaks up asking if he's lost. Chris denies it claiming he'd just been out praying, OF COURSE HE COULDN'T BE LOST. To which, Raenef asks if the walking in circles had to do with the praying and Chris gets pissed that he didn't bother to help him sooner. "I thought you were praying...?"

So Raenef and Chris set off walking through the palace.

Chr: You know, you really are a demon lord -- I can definitely sense your powers.
Rae: What are you talking about?
Chr: When you were, you know, bad, you said that you were going to go to the meeting and destroy everything. It reminded me how powerful you are.
Rae: I can't remember anything that happened.

And Chris gets a little creepy on his delusions of grandeur, but his attention is finally recalled to their location.

Chr: This is the first time I've been to this area.
Rae: Really?

And off to their right is a huge set of elaborate doors -- very grandiose and opulent.

Chr: What's this room?
Rae: This was the room of the former Demon Lord Raenef.
Chr: The former Demon Lord? Hm. Let's look inside!

He grabs Raenef and drags him into the rooms, and they are just as amazing as the doors themselves. Absolutely huge, though possessing a definite feel of abandonment.

Chr: Wow. It's pretty bleak.
Rae: Look. It's a portrait.

And sure enough, there's a larger than life portrait of Raenef IV on the wall.

Chr: Huh. I wasn't expecting him to be so good looking.
Rae: I've never seen him before.
Chr: You became the demon lord because he died, right? The more powerful the demon lord, the longer he lives... so this demon lord must have been pretty weak.
Rae: What are you talking about?
Chr: Years ago, my master told me about Raenef IV. He had a much shorter lifespan than the average demon lord. From what I understand, he was only 500 years old when he died.
Rae: Huh. Eclipse said demon lords can live to be three or four thousand years old... so he really did die young. If lifespan is proportionate to power... maybe he really was weak.

He looks up at the portrait again though thoughtfully.

Rae: I wonder if there was another reason.
Ecl: Raenef IV was not weak.
Rae: Eclipse.
Ecl: I have been looking for you. I did not expect to find you here.
Rae: Eclipse!♥
Chr: If it wasn't weakness... then why did he die so young?
Ecl: In the history of the Raenef Demon Lords -- indeed in the history of all Demon Lords -- Raenef IV was the most powerful.
Rae: Then what happened to him? He didn't die of natural causes, did he?
Ecl: Do you want to know?
Rae+Chr: YES, PLEASE!

So Eclipse decides to explain.

Ecl: If one compared Demon Lord Raenef IV, one could say that he possessed less magic, naturally.
Chr: So he really was weak.

After a death glare from Eclipse, Chris shuts up, and Eclipse continues his explanations.

Ecl: However, he discovered a way to magnify his powers. He learned incantations. Demon Lords normally use their magic without incantations. By using them, Raenef IV was able to get exponentially more more powerful results from what little power he possessed. And his incantations were only effective when recited by him.
Rae: I thought that any demon lord could memorize an incantation?
Ecl: Though the powers of demon lords may seem similar, they have differing traits. The incantations that the former Raenef Demon Lord wrote could only be used by him. He understood them... and he became obsessed with their use. For the numerous incantations that he developed, he became renowned throughout demonkind as their mightiest.
Rae: ... You haven't told us why he died so young.

Eclipse is silent for a minute seeming to gather himself before speaking again.

Ecl: Do you recall your lessons about the Hangma War?
Rae: The war between the demons and heaven's creatures?
Ecl: 150 years ago, during the Hangma War, the former Demon Lord Raenef killed legions of heaven's creatures with his mighty power. No other demon lord matched his might. The price of this power was the shortening of his life.

Chris interrupts at this point in confusion.

Chr: Wait a minute! It was a fight against heaven's creatures and not the gods?
Rae: You would know them as gods, Chris. Mortals refer to heaven's creatures as "gods".
Chr: What? I've never heard that before.
Rae: It's true. The real gods are way up above and they just observe what happens to us down here. I saw them once with my own eyes. Because the creatures of heaven came down and helped the mortals, the mortals began to call them "gods" and erect shrines to them.

Eclipse praises Raenef then for paying attention and for his improved reading comprehension, which Raenef basks in a bit. Then Eclipse continues the story.

Ecl: The battle between the clerics and the demons was just one small part of the war between the creatures of heaven and the demons. Perhaps because they feared Demon Lord Raenef the most, the creatures of heaven sacrificed their own lives in order to curse him with an incantation.
Rae: What kind of curse?
Ecl: It is not known. However, I assure you that the early demise of Demon Lord Raenef IV is related to that curse.
Chr: So... he was curse to death?
Rae: Well at least he didn't die young because he was weak.
Chr: Well he wasn't strong enough to resist the curse, was he?
Rae: ARGH!

The two children glare at each other for a while before asking at the same time.

Chr+Rae: So, what do we know about this curse? ("Jinx.")
Ecl: The former Demon Lord Raenef understood the details of his curse... but he never revealed them to anyone.

Eclipse looks up at the sky through the large windows before speaking to Raenef.

Ecl: It's getting late. It's time for you to turn in.

+ iiiiiinnnnnfffffooooooo dump holy shit
+ Chris hiss hiss grr broship

-- Hangma War, creatures of heaven vs demons, creatures of heaven are "gods" to mortals
-- Raenef IV was SUPER POWERFUL because of his incantations. He was renowned by the demons and feared by the creatures of heaven.
-- The creatures of heaven sacrificed their lives to curse him, and Raenef IV's death had to do with the curse somehow.
-- Most demon lords live 3-4 thousand years, but Raenef IV live only 500 years.
-- Raenef IV was a cagey bastard over the details of the curse so no one but him understood what it entailed.
-- Raenef IV was pretty attractive. :|a

"Submissive sex with Ling" from Greed's memory taken Day 225, afternoon
-- o-oops he definitely had a hormone and orgasm here...
-- gg greed
"Killing Bido" from Greed's memory taken Day 225, afternoon
-- CRYING!!!!!!!
"Blinding Ling" from Greed's memory taken Day 225, afternoon
-- OH MY GOD WHAT
"Fight with Swift over Jasper" from Greed's memory taken Day 225, afternoon
-- b-but Jasper ;;
"Suit of Armor in the Bar" from Greed's memory taken Day 225, afternoon
-- bweh bweh bweh
"Wrath killing his 'subordinates' in the sewers" from Greed's memory taken Day 225, afternoon
-- bawling

[24] wifely send offs / "Th-the mountain is gone." (v1 55-61) [Day 226, Early Morning]
Memory Format: a feather in your team color! stick it behind your ear to get the memory. Uses 1/3

In this memory (start here), Raenef is standing with Eclipse and local visiting demon at the entrance to his place. Eclipse is dressed for traveling.

Rae: Where are you going?
Ecl: I'm going away for a few days to a very important meeting. I wish I didn't have to go, but my presence at this meeting is very important. Try not to slack off with your studying.
Rae: Don't worry! Have fun, and take all the time you need.

Raenef waves him off cheerfully. Then he has a moment of pause, before grinning and tearing off into the castle. "I'm free! I'm gonna play!" Not having Eclipse around is great for a while, but after a few days, he's getting bored and fussy. He finally ends up sitting on one of the balcony railings.

Rae: Bah, I'm bored. I thought I could just sit back and relax while Eclipse is gone, but... it's just me and those horrible crusaders here.

Then he starts shaping the dark arrow into various forms, not just the usual energy blast. Pyramid, star, ball, puppy. He's still all huffy and irritable and waves off the shapes complaining still of being bored. Finally he heads back inside, wondering what else he should do with the day -- about the time the dark arrow shapes EXPLODE completely leveling a nearby mountain. 'o'!!!!

He stares at the remains in shock... before wondering if a knight would see that and come looking...

+ FREEDOM 8D!!!!!!
+ boredom sucks 8(

-- "Horrible crusaders?" o_0; ABWEH?!
-- TOTALLY ACCIDENTALLY JUST EXPLODED A MOUNTAIN OUT OF BOREDOM o_0;;;


[S06] SKILL: Awakening [Day 227, Evening]
SKILL Format: a foil-wrapped chocolate coin stamped on both sides with a sheaf of wheat. Used 1/1 times.

Details: This is the "awakening" of the second half of Raenef's personality. It's kind of a complicated situation, but Raenef's personality was split when he was brought back through time because of his predecessor's premature death. The dominant personality is called the Innocent Raenef. He acquired all of the Raenef name's magical powers, but it was the second personality that acquired Raenef's magical abilities and intelligence.

The reason the split occurred was the destabilization of the Demon Lord's magic as he was dragged back through time. The reason it stayed divided and one personality was "asleep" is that the curse would cause the two equal halves to tear each other apart, driving him insane and killing him before dragging his successor from an even further point in the future, further fragmenting his mind and repeating the process until "Demon Lord Raenef" was completely erased from existence.

Raenef's second personality possesses the cruelty, cunning, and viciousness of a demon lord without any balancing compassion or empathy. He also comes packed with the knowledge of all the previous Raenefs' skills and spells for magic. Well, normally, he'll be frustrated at the inability to use them in Aather, but for argument's sake, he does know them. He is intelligent, composed, and pretty much as exact opposite to the Innocent Raenef as it can get.

But!

He has a limited ability to hold Raenef's body. Events will have to trigger his emergence. Taking the skill will allow him to emerge, and the "blank" memories that specifically relate to him will submerge the innocent Raenef from now on as well. Memories of their "awakening" from the curse will also trigger the alter personality. Those may or may not fully submerge the Innocent Raenef though, depending on his development at that point.

Impact: This is very likely to drive Raenef insane since the Innocent Raenef in Aather is not nearly as strong a force of personality as he was in canon, and the early emergence of the alternate personality is going to send cracks through his psyche.

-- :'(


[25] calling out Krayon / "Wow -- Erutis is scary." (v4 85-89) [Day 228, afternoon]
Memory Format: a miniature goblet, with a slightly less miniature glass vial. Fill the goblet and drink to receive your memory. Uses 1/3

In this memory (right page start), Erutis, Chris, and Raenef are standing outside in Meruhesae's dreamscape.... and Erutis is pissed off and yelling at Krayon.

Eru: Hey, you!! Demon Lord Fancy-Pants!! I know you can hear me!! Show yourself!! Let's settle this right now!! You're not afraid of a girl, are you? And I thought Chris was vain!!
Chr: Leave me out of this!!
Eru: Come out, come out wherever you are!!!

And then Erutis uses a stick to slice through a whole bunch of trees as thick as horses and Chris and Raenef are duly terrified of her swordsmastery because seriously omfg wtf Erutis. After nearly getting killed themselves, Raenef and Chris talk quietly hiding behind stumps from her rage.

Rae: Wow -- Erutis is scary. That sword master thing is nothing to laugh at.
Chr: She's not even watching what she's doing. (grumble grumble)

And then they are joined by Krayon.

Kra: Silence.
Eru: Hello, Demon Fancy-Pants! Come on, the party's down here.

And Krayon is floating in the air above and behind them being a smug bastard.

Kra: Children, welcome to my realm.

+ SHRIEK ERUTIS HOLY CRAP
+ 1000 respect for swordmasters
+ 1000 TERROR OF ERUTIS WHEN SHE'S PISSED

-- D-demon lord fancy-pants... E-Erutis... ^^;;;;;;;;
-- Oh lord I think she'd kill us too and apologize next year when she remembered.
-- NTS DO NOT PISS OFF ERUTIS AGAIN

Note: Jasper got a lot of alcohol too. '^'


[26] eastern town / "I forgot to bring any money with me." (v2 48-55) [Day 229, mid-morning]
Memory Format: One fake diamond half. Must be broken to view memory. This will be surprisingly easy due to UNICORN MAGIC. Uses 1/1

In this memory (left page start), Raenef is in an eastern city just IN AWE of everything he sees. MARKET PLACE :UUUUU

Rae: Wow... this city market is bigger than I expected.

He wanders along until he passes a restaurant and gets a whiff of the DELIGHTS from inside.

Rae: The smell of dumplings is making me hungry again... and I've already finished the tomatoes.

He looks in his back and...

Rae: Whoops! I forgot to bring any money with me. Oh, I should have stayed and let Eclipse look after me. What was I thinking? I'm so hungry.

About then, the owner comes out of the shop and yells at him.

Own: Hey! Buy something or get out of here!! You're scaring off the other customers--!!

This is pretty familiar ground for Raenef who starts to walk off in a gloom, but the man's demeanor suddenly changes.

Own: Wait! C'mere a second, kid.
Rae: Yes?
Own: Lemme see you...

And the owner pretty much paws him all over, looking under and around and over and basically everything except checking his teeth. Raenef is SUPER CONFUSED!!!!! but the owner seems to be having A MOMENT OF JOY and suddenly his attitude changes entirely to super polite.

Own: You look hungry. Come in and let me make you some dumplings.
Rae: But you told me to leave.
Own: I was just kidding! Come, eat!

And Raenef king of blushy sparkles at the idea.

Own: No charge for you.
Rae: Okay. Thank you. (Wow, what an unbelievably nice man!)

+ FOOD! FREE FOOD!!! YESSS
+ people are so nice T^T

-- The eastern market is really impressive.
-- The owner was kind of weird, but really nice.
-- Dumplings :O~~~~


[27] a powerless fight / "... I want to quickly become a proper demon lord." (v4 100-124, 129-135) [Jabberwock's game Day 232, late afternoon Day 232, intermission Day 232, later afternoon: finale Day 233, Late Evening]
Memory Format: small hand mirrors with a dark gray casing. Uses 1/7

In this memory (left page start), Raenef and gang are back in Krayon's domain and Meruhesae's dream. It is quite easily apparent that this is shortly after Erutis took out half the forest calling him out.

Kra: You really are a noisy girl. Those trees... hasn't anyone explained to you the value of a tree?

And then proceeds to slip into teacher mode explaining global warming due to carbon dioxide due to deforestation -- blah blah blah. Erutis loses it again and takes a swing at him which he ducks easily.

Eru: I skipped school for battle practice -- so you can save the lecture.
Kra: Too bad. As I get older, I find I enjoy lecturing. Despite appearances, I am one of the five oldest demons, you know.
Eru: DO I LOOK LIKE I CARE?!! Let us leave this place!!
Chr: He really looks good for his age.
Rae: No kidding.
Kra: What if I refuse?

Krayon says it with a straight face and the trio freezes in shock.

Kra: Why should I let you leave?
Eru: What?!! Do you think we're going to hang out and play quietly?? Why? What do you mean why? Why would you want us here? Free us or -- !!

She breaks off her rant when she notices Krayon studying her intently.

Eru: Uh... what is he thinking?
Kra: You're cute, you know. You've got spunk. I like that. ♥

And in two sentences breaks the brains of the trio.

Eru: Er... what?
Kra: I said that I like you.
Eru: ....... What is he going on about?
Kra: If you really insist on returning... hmm, let's see...

His attention focuses again on Raenef.

Kra: You'll still have to show me that you're a worthy master for Eclipse... young Demon Lord Raenef. Though you only recently became a demon lord, you were chosen by the gods. Please do no disappoint me.
Rae: Disappoint you?

And while Krayon was speaking he was gathering energy into his hands and finally throws a huge blast of energy at Raenef.

Kra: Show me your powers, Raenef!
Rae: No!

He panics a little because he has no powers in this realm, and he flinches in the face of the attack. I'm sorry, Eclipse. He throws his arms up in a defensive gesture, and the blast hits with an explosion! Only when the dust clears, it's easy to see that it had detonated against Eclipse's magic shield. He had found his way into Krayon's realm in time to save Raenef.

Kra: Eclipse!!
Chr: Stop it! Taking the assaults of the Dream World's Demon Lord in his own realm is suicide!
Kra: Grr! Eclipse, you dare block my attack?

Krayon launches another attack at them and Eclipse strains to block the attack.

Rae: Eclipse! The shield is breaking!!
Eru: Eclipse! Raenef!

And then the shield shatters beneath Krayon's attack, and even then, Eclipse uses his own body to protect Raenef from the weakened force of the attack, leaving him lying in a pool of blood.

Rae: Eclipse!! ... E-Eclipse?

He groans in pain and Raenef runs to his side.

Rae: Eclipse!! Are you hurt? Eclipse! You're bleeding.
Ecl: I'm... I'll be okay. So long as you are safe.
Kra: What's that you say? I don't believe it. Eclipse, protecting a Demon Lord to the point of self-injury. The demon world would laugh at such behavior. The child you serve is a joke in and of himself... but you risk your life to save him?
Eru: His energy is building.
Kra: And -- in your insolence -- you block my attack.

He gathers up an ever greater amount of energy for the attack.

Kra: I wonder... can you do it again?
Eru: Such tremendous power. This attack is different.
Kra: EN GARDE!!
Rae: No!

As the magic attack races at them, Eclipse stumbles to his feet again, throwing up another shield spell and then teleports Raenef well away from him and to safety. The explosion hits and Raenef cries out for Eclipse...

And then the magic is gone, rocks and debris raining safely down around Eclipse and leaving the four of them facing Krayon in stunned silence.

Ecl: The magic... Gone.
Eru: What happened?
Chr: The magic disappeared all of a sudden.
Eru: Eclipse, are you alright?
Ecl: Yes! Where is Master Raenef?

About the time he finishes his question, Raenef launches himself against Eclipse, wrapping his arms around him in a tight desperate hug.

Ecl: Master Raenef?

He's shaking hard with fear for Eclipse. Eclipse sighs and hugs him back with his good arm.

Ecl: Master Raenef, everything is alright now. I'm pleased that you are safe.

While he holds onto him, Raenef thinks: It's my fault that Eclipse got hurt. Because I'm a fool. I'm always such a burden to him. Quickly... I want to become a proper demon lord. A true demon lord!!

Kra: Eclipse. I will return you all to your world... though I do not believe this child to be your worthy master. If at any time you wish to join me, I will accept you.
Ecl: Thank you.
Kra: Then do as you wish.

And with a gesture, he teleports them away from his realm.

+ ECLIPSE ECLIPSEECLIPSEECLIPSEECLIPSEECLIPSEECLIPSEECLIPSEECLIPSE
+ SOBS
+ SO USELESS!!!
+ ONLY A BURDEN!!!
+ ECLIPSE!!!!!!!!!

-- Need to be a better demon lord!
-- Need to not be a burden to Eclipse!
-- Eclipse got hurt because of me!!!
-- NO!


[28] cleric feels / "Do you hate me, Chris?" (v5 105-110) [Day 234, noon]
Memory Format: a palm sized teddy bear. Uses 1/2

In this memory (right page start), Raenef is watching Chris training with a "wooden sword" aka stick, while Erutis lazes about in a hammock.

Rae: Chris? Um, you look kind of dorky. What few fans you have are going to give up on you.
Chr: What are you talking about?! I'm practicing swordsmanship!! You want me to stab you with my stick?
Rae: Why use a sword when you're a cleric?
Chr: I'll become a Magic Wielding Swordsman!! I'll be able to use my magic and a sword, too.
Eru: Sorry, but clerics who use weapons aren't called "magic wielding swordsman' -- they're monks. And they really do use sticks.

Cue diagram of bald Chris with Monk stats.

Chr: Stop it! If I say I'm a Magic Wielding Swordsman, then I'm a magic wielding swordsman. I like the sound of it, all right??
Eru: Whatever.
Chr: I want to become the Magic Wielding Swordsman who destroys all demons!
Rae: .... Do you really hate all demons that much, Chris?
Chr: Of course!
Rae: What about me? I'm a demon lord. Demons aren't so bad. Do you hate me, Chris?
Chr: [GASP!!]
Rae: Huh? Huh?
Chr: Well... you're different. You don't act like a demon lord and... and... I don't hate you. You're... You're my friend, okay?
Rae: Heh! So all that talk about destroying me was just talk?
Chr: Not so fast, I'm still a cleric!! One day we will become enemies!

Chris calms suddenly though.

Chr: Should you become an evil demon lord... I will fight you. Even if you are my friend.
Rae: Okay! I consider you my friend too, so I'll make sure to be a kind demon lord.

+ FRANDSHIP '^'!!!!!!!!

-- Chris is my friend so I'm going to make sure to become a kind demon lord so we never have to fight.
-- ... A... kind demon lord 'o'!!!!


[S07] SKILL: telepathy [Day 236, afternoon]
SKILL Format: a nice ripe pear. Used 1/1 times.

Details: Okay! So this actually is only used once in canon and never explained, so here's how I'm going to play it:

This will essentially be magical induced mind to mind telephone service. That is the best way I know to explain this.
It carries only voice.
It is deliberately projected thoughts.
It only goes to its intended recipient.
Emotions, mental images, non-deliberate thoughts (outside of lulz) do not get sent.
There is probably a range limit.

Impact: NOT A LOT. It could be useful sometime. We'll have to see.

-- Mental distress signal is a go?! IDEK He'll probably be as bad about remembering he has this skill as he is about teleportation.


[29] bride bonding / "Don't you get lonely?" (v3 92-97) [Day 237, early afternoon]
Memory Format: sugar holly leaves - there's 3 leaves and a 2 berries. Uses 0/5

In this memory (left page start), Raenef comes up behind his "bride" Leeche in the evening of her arrival to find her talking to herself.

Lch: That was disappointing. I thought the castle of a Demon Lord would be teeming with spooky adventure! But it's so boring.
Rae: What kind of adventure?
Lch: Eep! What are you doing? You startled me.
Rae: What are you getting startled for? It's only me.
Lch: What did you say?
Rae: You're out really late. Aren't you scared? Even I get scared... once in a while.
Lch: Hmph. You're a big baby.
Rae: (TWITCH)
Lch: Leeche has always been alone. So I'm not afraid of anything.
Rae: ... Don't you get lonely?
Lch: Not really. I can't do anything about it anyway. It's not like your dead mother can come back to life to keep you company. And you can't be lonely forever.
Rae: I bet your mother would be proud of you. You'll grow into a fine lady one day.
Lch: Well, it doesn't bother me so much anymore. It happened when I was really young, so I don't remember very much now.
Rae: Well... I'm sorry.
Lch: Huh?
Rae: Um... although it wasn't me who did it, I'm sorry. I'm sorry for your pain.
Lch: You sure don't act like a Demon Lord. I like you.
Rae: Really? I'm glad! I like you, too!

+ doesn't like being called a baby
+ comfortable talking with her about serious matters

-- Leeche's mother was killed by a demon (demon lord?)
-- She's pretty mature for someone so young.
-- Likes her '-'
-- Apologizing is okay, even if it's not something I did. It's okay to apologize for someone's pain?


[30] induction ceremony / "I'm honored, your most rotten demonships!" (v1 22-36) [Day 239, Evening]
Memory Format: hearts shaped out of ruby-colored crystal. Uses 1/1

In this memory (page start), Raenef finds Eclipse after getting ready for the Demon Lord induction ceremony. (His.)

Ecl: Let's go.
Rae: Okay. Thanks for waiting... ahh, I can't say that, can I?
Ecl: No problem.

Eclipse. Fourth in rank. Eclipse is one of the highest ranked demons and has an impressive resume. At this time, he's [my] supervisor.

Rae: Hey Eclipse. So you do know how to smile.
Ecl: I'm not an angry demon all the time.
Rae: Huh? Not bad. But how did you know what I was thinking?
Ecl: .......... Oh well. Shall we go?
Rae: Okay!

So off they go to a really impressive demon lord castle and there are dozens of demons and demon lords wandering about and all of them are SUPER POWERFUL and SUPER OLD and SUPER DIGNIFIED...

And Raenef is yawning out of BOREDOM, which horrifies Eclipse who hisssts his name at him, and Raenef goes back into "serious" mode, which causes the other demon lords to titter in derisive amusement.

Ecl: I'd like to remind you of your position and... your dignity!
Rae: Okay!
Ecl: Are you giggling? Every situation requires a certain expression. At least try to look evil in front of the other demon lords.
Rae: (puts on a face thinking: He's on me all the time)
Ecl: And the dignity!

Rae: Oops! Eclipse...
Ecl: Yes. Try not to say "oops" my lord.
Rae: How dare you correct me?
Ecl: My lord...
Rae: Why are you saying "my lord"?
Ecl: ... You're a demon lord and I'm your servant. Isn't it obvious that I honor my master?
Rae: So I'm your lord?
Ecl: Yes, that is correct.
Rae: Says who?
Ecl: ... If you're not happy with me, you can replace me with another demon.
Rae: No, no, that's not what I meant. Who made me your boss?
Ecl: It... was the gods' will.
Rae: Aha... that old man that told me to be a demon lord? And the pretty lady was there...
Ecl: Is that how you talk about Odin and Freya?
Rae: They ordered you to work for me?
Ecl: Yes.
Rae: Why shouldn't we be able to work together? Without you serving me...
Ecl: ... (smiles) I appreciate you being so considerate, but you're a demon lord. I'm just a demon, and compared to you I'm just...

They're interrupted then by a voice announcing a new arrival.

Ann: Lord Aureleid has arrived.

Enter uber dignified super old demon lord.

Rae: (Wow, he's so magnificent.) Who's Aureleid?
Ecl: He's the highest-ranked demon in the world. He's more than 70,000 years old. He's on the front line... and he's representing all demon lords.
Rae: Aaah... I see.
Ann: Now... The opening ceremony begins. Younger demon lords, bow for the elder.

And around him, the other demon lords bow their heads slightly and Raenef is nervous and unsure, and Eclipse calls on it.

Ecl: Lord Raenef, your expression...

So Raenef puts on a serious face and approaches the eldest demon lord, and... and bows at the waist, humbly, with a full grin and a perky cheerful:

Rae: Good day! Nice to meet you.

Which startles Aureleid and his attendant demon lords, who just stare at him in stunned silence for a full minute, which Raenef returns the look with confusion of his own waiting for a response. It is the most awkward silence ever in the hall until Aureleid starts laughing, which affects everyone in the room, and soon the entire room is laughing at the faux pas. Raenef just watches trying to figure out if he did something wrong, and Eclipse speaks to him mind to mind.

Ecl: Lord Raenef! How many times I have I told you not to humiliate yourself?!
Rae: Eh? What was that?
Ecl: Lord Raenef! It's me, Eclipse. I'm using telepathy, just listen to me okay?
Rae: Eclipse?
Ecl: Lord Raenef, you need to regain your honor...

Raenef grins, shooting Eclipse and OK sign with a confident, "No problem!" He clears his throat and addresses the Elder Demon Lord.

Rae: HOW DARE YOU CORRECT ME, YOU SCUM?!!

This outburst startles the older demon lords and then sets them into howling hysterical laughter. Raenef shoots Eclipse a confident victory sign, and Eclipse is just speechless.

Aur: He he he... Eclipse, Is this your rookie master?
Ecl: ... Yes, he is.
Aur: Hahaha! How ironic. The oh so famous Eclipse is taking orders from a clown! He will make the other demon lords look ridiculous!

He turns and walks away leading the other demon lords away from Eclipse and Raenef. Raenef just smiles a little.

Rae: Eclipse ♥ It's a tough path to walk becoming a demon lord... but that went alright didn't it?
Ecl: Master... eh...

+ /)//////(\ /sobs

-- taken before write up, reactions mostly along the lines of "oh... oh wow... that's embarrassing. um... n-no wonder i wanted to be a better demon lord orz just FREAKING ORZ"
-- Odin and Freya and the other gods made Eclipse his servant and told him to become a demon lord.
-- Aureleid is super old and super powerful... and thinks he's a clown ._.;;
-- Eclipse smiles sometimes '^'!
-- Eclipse is the fourth-ranked demon, so he's super powerful even though he's Raenef's servant and teaching Raenef how to act like a demon lord.


[31] the great day of prayer / "The time approaches..." (v5 138-142) [Day 240, Tea Time]
Memory Format: 4 tea cookies! Uses 1/4

In this memory (left page start), Chris and Erutis are talking about demon lords and Raenef pops up out of nowhere scaring the crap out of Erutis.

Eru: ... Supposedly if you kill a demon lord, you gain special knowledge.
Rae: Did you call me?

She immediately punches him in the head.

Eru: You can't go sneaking up on people using transportation magic!
Rae: Owie!
Chr: You were planning on gaining knowledge from this guy?
Eru: As soon as I met him, I regretted it.

Suddenly Chris jolts and GAAAAAASPS with horror.

Chr: I forgot!!
Eru: What? What's the matter?
Chr: I hadn't finished praying.

And he takes a knee, bowing his head in a picture of pure devout prayer to his god.

Eru: Oh, that's right. Today is the great day of prayer.
Rae: Great day of prayer?
Eru: Yes. As a demon lord, you wouldn't celebrate it. 150 years ago during the Hangma War, the gods sacrificed themselves in order to save mankind. Once a year, a day is set aside to pray for the souls of the dead gods and to thank them for their sacrifice.
Chr: (praying) Rased, rest in benevolent light upon thy temple. All light is thy glory. All done. Let's play! What do you want to play, Raenef?
Eru: Just as I thought: prayer mode is an anomaly.

Just then though, Raenef hears a voice in the back of his head.

???: Now... the time approaches.

Raenef startles, looking around for the voice.

Rae: Huh? What did you just say?
Eru: Chris' prayer mode is an anomaly.

Raenef is kind of confused because: I heard something else...

+ Creepy voices are creepy.
+ Erutis and Chris are fun to play with.
+ Increased likelihood of using teleportation to sneak up on people.

-- Great day of prayer... the Hangma War again. That's the one Eclipse and Raenef IV were involved in.
-- What time is approaching?


[S08] SKILL: the occasional meta [Day 244, afternoon]
SKILL Format:a slice of bread. It's a little stale, but edible. Used 1/1 times.

Details: Crack skill! Demon Diary is notorious for the random conversations and arguments between the characters and the authors. They're not frequent, but there are enough of them that a little crackiness in his game play would be aces.

Impact: At some point, he will start calling his author (me) out on typos and forgetting things or misreading things. Within reason and it will be mostly brief unless mod permissions are sought for IC-player conversation.

-- SOMEONE APP ME A CHRIS ALREADY T^T

---

taken by AltRae

---

[32] Chris is a moron / "That's for completely destroying the moment, you idiot!" (v6 169-171) [Day 245, midday]
Memory Format: a water gun; spray one of your teammates to receive your memory. Uses 0/3

In this memory (left page start),

+

--


[33] sword masters / "But Eru's sword broke on my head." (v3 172-175) [Day 246, late evening into early night]
Memory Format: two palm-sized lion statues in a team colored bag. Break the statue to receive; two uses. Uses 0/2

In this memory (left page start),

+

--


[34] demon lord summoning / "Have I been kidnapped?" (v2 63-64, 72-81) [Day 251, the wee hours]
Memory Format: brightly-colored party crackers! However. You will need a friend or teammate to hold one end while you pull on the other—resulting in a shared memory. SURPRISE! Uses 0/2 (simultaneously)

In this memory (left page start),

+

--


[S09] SKILL: street rat [Day 252, afternoon]
SKILL Format: a bay leaf. Eat the whole thing to obtain your skill. Used 1/1 times.

Details:

Impact:

--


[35] Return to Pulhel / "It sounds to me like you've got amnesia" (v7 25-36) [Day 253, Predawn]
Memory Format: a small crystal. Breathe on it to receive the memory. Uses 0/1

In this memory (left page start),

+

--


[36] Magic Manipulation / "If I should die like this Eclipse, I want you to know..." (v6 108-116, 119-169) [Day 253, late evening]
Memory Format: a small, strangely sweet steak pie. At least, it has the appearance and general texture of a steak pie. It tastes a little off, and it won't actually sate any hunger... an attempt was made. Uses 0/1

In this memory (left page start),

+

--


[37] Fighting Raenef IV / "What makes you think this is the end?" (v6 79-89) [Day 255, early evening]
Memory Format: the treasure you took from the chest, for those who played in the game. Gripping the treasure tightly gives your memory. Uses 0/1

In this memory (left page start),

+

--


[38] street rat / "Raenef, you little tramp!" (v1 70-71+hc) [Day 257, late night]
Memory Format: miniature macarons in boxes. Each box has 9 macarons. Uses 0/9

In this memory (page start to next page), Raenef is tiny... like tiny tiny. Probably about 4 or 5 years old. His clothing is basically rags and he's got scraps of cloth wrapped around his feet because he doesn't have shoes. He'd spotted a group of children playing in the street probably. Something simple like kicking a ball or something, and he approached them. When they saw him however their reaction was far from kind. Possibly owing to an adult near by or possibly them mimicking what the adults around them have said before. Possibly also throwing stones at him. It's kind of vague, but let's go with that.

???: Raenef, you little tramp!
???: It's Raenef! He's the devil's child! Don't go near him -- he's dangerous!
???: I don't want to play with you, freak -- go away!

At which point tiny Raenef is sobbing. He's lonely. There's a definite sense that this has happened before; that no one wanted him at all, ever; that he's been chased off by adults and children alike. He doesn't know why. He's just lonely and hungry and tired and mostly lonely.

+ misery
+ lots of misery

-- Note: there are some translation differences between the online and the English publication. I'm not sure which is accurate since I do not have the originals. Online translates it: "You little thief." Publication translates it: "You little tramp." Since I'm more familiar with the publication version. I'm going to be transcribing that one, despite linking the online version.


[39] Full out battle against Chris / "If you wish to save that child, you will attack him." (v6 12-33, 39-41, 49-63) [Day 260, late morning]
Memory Format: a plain wooden handle that looks like it broke off a crank of some kind. Turn it in the air one full circle to get your memory. Uses 0/3

In this memory (left page start),

+

--


[40] a knight arrives / "Game over, kid!" (v1 61-84) [Day 264, predawn]
Memory Format: a single teabag! The little paper tab on it has a single word, relating to your memory, but likely frustratingly unhelpful. ("Knight") You can steep it a couple times for memory tea, but it'll lose potency and gain grossness over time. Uses 0/a few

In this memory,

+

--


[41] nightmares / "Don't you think it's about time for you to disappear?" (v5 120-127) [Day 264, afternoon]
Memory Format: a small penguin stuffed animal. Squeeze it for your memory. Uses 0/1

In this memory,

+

--

---

start here with writs ups then do previous

---

[42] Holy Bolt / "It can end the consciousness of a Demon Lord." (v2 80-97 -- includes flashback) [Day 273, BREAKFAST (morning)]
Memory Format: a loaf of bread. Uses 0/1

In this memory (left page start), Raenef is standing before a young cleric (Chris) and an older cleric.

OCl: Child, where do you live?
Rae: Me? I'm not a child. I'm a--
Chr: YOU! You're a demon lord aren't you?
OCl: That imbecile. [ignores and turns back to Raenef] So -- what is your name?
Rae: I am a demon lord!
OCl: Are you now?
Rae: Yes, I am the Great and Scary Ancient Demon Lord Raenef.

The old cleric goes from smiling to feeling Raenef's forehead for a temperature while Chris quietly (for the moment) wigs out in shock.

OCl: Look here. You shouldn't go around telling people you're a demon lord. Especially in front of that idiot.

[he points to Chris who is overcome with himself]

Rae: But what if I am a demon lord? In 101 Ways to Become a Mighty Demon Lord, it specifically states that I should proudly proclaim my demon lord title. Then, with a maniacal "bwahahaha" laugh, I'm supposed to disappear into thin air.
OCl: Congratulations, Chris. Because of you that boy has lost his mind!
Chr: W-what are you talking about?! Master!! I'm positive he really is a demon lord!! And in the name of the god Rased, I, Chris, THE SUPER GENIUS, will destroy evil!!
Rae: The god Rased? The one with the insolent clan involved in the Hangma campaign?
Chr: Who are you calling insolent? Speak for yourself demon! How dare you call the followers of the god Rased, who wants to eradicate all evil, insolent?!

About this time the old cleric gives up on them.

Chr: You... I shall punish you for insulting the divine power of Rased!!
OCl: Stop!! Chris!! That's --!
Chr: HOLY BOLT! Die, demon lord!!

And so Chris launches holy bolt at Raenef who startles backwards and falls into a flashback.

Ecl: The city market?
Rae: Uh-huh -- I want to see it. Can't I? Oh, nevermind. Just forget about it. (T^T)
Ecl: The city market is not a problem. However, there is something you should know.
Rae: Something I should know? But it's okay to go?!
Ecl: In the city, there are temples dedicated to the worship of various gods. People worship these gods because they are the only gods who confront demons.
Rae: Are they powerful?
Ecl: By themselves, most are not powerful. However, on occasion there rises one among them who is quite powerful... and if several join together they can become dangerous.
Rae: Hm.
Ecl: Be especially careful of the high clerics' Holy Bolt.
Rae: Holy Bolt?
Ecl: Yes, it's a magic that... well, they say it has the ability to snatch a demon's life away. Do you understand? It has the ability to end the consciousness of a demon lord.

And back to the present. Chris is launching the Holy Bolt at him and Raenef is frozen and then he remembers something important and just as the Holy Bolt is about to hit, he counters with Dark Arrow which impacts with the Holy Bolt into a huge explosion!

+ .-.

-- ._. I think Chris just tried to kill me...
-- AltRae: They are both imbeciles.


[43] taking in another stray / "Take this with you." (v2 135-142) [Day 290, sunset]
Memory Format: a ballpoint pen. Uncap it to view the memory. Works twice. Afterwards, it is a very functional pen. Uses 1/2

In this memory (left page start),

+

--


[S10] Death Drill [Day 291, sunset/early evening]
Memory Format: a nasturtium flower. You have to eat it. Uses 0/1

This skill is a massive explosion of power centered in the body of another being, which can literally explode it into tiny scraps of meat. We see Eclipse demonstrating this skill once when he's frustrated with Raenef, destroying a crusader in front of him, which probably gives him PTSD flashbacks to the time he accidentally unleashed an uncontrolled version of it and killed a guard in Pulhel.

+

-- So far as I can tell, this skill has no defense against it. Thus it will be difficult to employ in Aather due to power cap. Should it ever be employed in monster battles, there are two options for it.
1) The skill is limited in it's blast radius and will be able to blow limbs from a creature. 2-3 uses before pass out.
2) The skill is at full power blowing all or major parts of a monster apart, but is a one hit KO for Raenef. (this would be a last ditch method during a boss battle)
-- That said, Raenef has a mental lock on this skill. Because he has killed people with it unintentionally before, he is going to be highly reluctant to use it. So saying, the second option above might be the best and most likely application of the skill.


[44] types of magic / "With that I conclude the somewhat difficult lesson of categorical magic." (v4 179-181) [Day 292, late morning]
Memory Format: chocolate lips wrapped in red foil. Remove the foil to view the memory. Uses 0/1

In this memory (left page start),

+

--


[45] Pulhel: first meeting / "I've never seen someone with pitch black hair before." (v2 153-159) [Day 293, Early Night]
Memory Format: a sparkling pumpkin handmirror. Look into it to see the memory! Can be used up to four times! Uses 0/4

In this memory (left page start),

+

--


[46] leaving the palace / "Maybe I'm not cut out for this." (v2 36-42) [Day 296-ish (wolf game)]
Memory Format: a tiny clear bottle. Insert a liquid inside and drink from the bottle to receive your memory. You will instinctively know this! It also has unlimited uses. Uses 0/infinite

In this memory (left page start),

+

--


[47] a talking book / "Huh? Awaken it? Awaken what?" [Day 299, Dawn]
Memory Format: a chestnut that can be cracked into half. Four uses. Uses 0/4

In this memory (left page start),

+

-- Bonus Prize: Fish out a small fry that will wither in two days or quicker if not in water.

---

yup another break oops

---

[S11] magic shield (number 5 I think) [Day 306, evening/sunset]
Memory Format: a dark black ball of chocolate -- it's like 88% cocoa. Uses 0/1

This skill is an incredibly powerful shield against physical and magical attacks.

+

--


[48] Pulhel: third meeting / "My name is Raenef!" (v2 176-188) [Day 312, Late morning]
Memory Format: a leaf with three berries attached.Uses 1/3

In this memory (left page start),

+

-- Lancelot's guilt/punishment game: Jasper NOPED out.


[49] receipt of an offering / "And that offering is... a bride." (v3 70-91) [Day 314, night]
Memory Format: a chinese puzzle ball, four layers deep. shake it to view--the innermost layer will shatter with each viewing, giving you three shares + the outermost shell (which can be destroyed as well to share a memory of your choice., but not until all three inside layers have been used). Uses 1/3 + extra share memory

In this memory (left page start),

+

--


[50] cold eyes / "I'm pondering the destruction of the human world, and the rebirth of a new world in my image." (v5 30-34) [Day 316, Pre-dawn]
Memory Format: snake fangs. Stab yourself with it to gain the memory; it breaks after three uses. Uses 1/3

This is an AltRae memory. In this memory (left page start),

+

-- Mordred's visions game: Jasper NOPED out again.


[51] Pulhel: Taken in by the Thieves Guild (hc) [Day 319, Early Evening]
Memory Format: teacup; pour liquid into it and drink. Infinite uses, unless you break it...then it won't work any more :( Uses 1/infinite

In this memory (left page start),

+

--

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[52] Dealing with Demon Lords / "But I'm not nearly as infamous as you, sir." (v7 120-124) [Day 320, Afternoon]
Memory Format: a walnut-sized blue glass ball. You must shatter the ball to get the memory. The pieces will disappear afterwards. Uses 1/1

In this memory (left page start),

+

--


[53] Midnight snacks (HC) [Day 321, morning]
Memory Format: a brightly colored egg that splits down the middle. You can open the egg to view your memory, and there is also a piece of chocolate inside that you can give to someone else so they can eat it and view the memory as well. Uses 1/2

In this memory, Raenef in his first week of being a Demon Lord sneaking around the castle at night to try to find a snack... or the kitchen...

... and getting completely and utterly lost.

Eventually Eclipse finds him, grumps at him a lot, tells him he should have called for him if he wanted anything and if he really had to go to the kitchen he should have just teleported himself. He finally gives in though and takes Raenef to the kitchen to get a snack.

+ fluffy dere for the grumpmeister

--


[54] Waking up / "Huh?! Where... am I?" (v6 182-183, hc) [Day 322, Eve's heart game]
Memory Format: a rose made out of edible gold flakes, eat a petal to receive the memory, four uses. if you eat the rest of the petals, you will just get a tummy ache :c (and maybe metal poisoning, oops ... ) Uses 1/4

In this memory (left page start),

+

--


[S12] SKILL: Soul Scream [Day 324, late morning to midday (teatime again!) (skill loss -- awakening)]
SKILL Format: A really really sour jawbreaker. You need to get to the center of it to get the skill. Used 1/1 times.

Details:

Impact:

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[55] Merging / "It is time." (v7 95-103) [Day 328, sunrise/early morning DARKNESS GAME]
Memory Format: baskets of flowers in the Great Hall for winning teams to pick up. Pluck the petals to receive your memories. Uses 1/7

In this memory (left page start),

+

--