First it was Dust, now FYAB!Red is Genderbent.

(btw FYAB is now PRAC)

(Oh cool.)

(so you should update the name

(Okay.)

. O .

FYAB!Red: Just, don’t.

. ///////// .

FYAB!Red: GET AWAY FROM ME!!!

Vin: Oh. My. God. GURL RED!?

Alexei: Oh, it's this guy again...but he's...
*he downs even another glass of vodka omg he's probably gonna get a heart attack someday lol*
...*sigh*

Red: ...

Kanisha: ....*she knocks on the door hard while staring right into Red's eyes*
That's what I meant-
......................
.....
...
You know I don't think this is working-
...*sigh*

Red: Damn it...

Kanisha: *she places her hand on his shoulders*
....Oi, Red, I'm sorry for letting this happen to ya while I was asleep...
But since we can't leave this place anytime soon, how about we-

*a knocking comes from the other side of the door*

U-uh-

Red: ...........

Kanisha: *she turns toward the door again*...Someone heard my knock, Red!
...
*a hand taps on a tiny non-see-through glass window in the door from the other side*
You know, I don't mind it, it won't be too much of an issue-
...How about you smash the hell outta that glass, Red?
*she hands him a metal candlestick that was on a table and gives a tired smile*

Red: Don’t worry. I don’t need a candle stick. I just have to... *throws a knife at the window*

*it shatters*
Kanisha: Oh! Ya saved me some money on the candlestick, even better!

*the arm reaches through the gap and drops a key*

Kanisha: This'll open up the door, for sure. It's my room's key! *she picks it up and hands it off to Red*

*Red uses the key to open the door*

*Kanisha pushes the doors open*

Cedric: Oh thank God you two are okay-
...I was worried when I noticed that you disappeared for such a long time...

Kanisha: Oi, it's you! *she hugs him extremely tightly and he stumbles back a bit after she releases him*

Cedric: Uh, yeah-

Zach: Mhm...?

Nublada: D-did you ever...*she appears nervous*
When you were dreaming, that is...
...Did you ever see a young boy....with curly white hair who was dressed in royal robes...?

Zach: ...actually I did...

Nublada: ...Y-you did?
...f-for real?
I can't believe it...he was alive...it was him...
*she looks away from Zach and sheds a tear*
...thank you for letting me know, dear. I-
*sigh*
What was it like...to m-meet him in your dreams...?

Zachary: ...While I was dreaming I was able to talk to him... since he was lonely...

Nublada: T-thank you so much for giving him company, dear.
I don't know if he told you, but...
That was my brother...and...um...
*her eyes turn watery*
...I thought he was dead. And I think he might have sacrificed himself in order to defeat my father...
I miss him so much now, my heart hurts just at the thought of him...
...*she wipes a tear off her cheek*

Zachary: *hugs Nublada* ........

Nublada: *hugs him back*
I...I'll be fine, Zach...it's just...
...thank you, dear.
I will do my best to protect you...I will make sure you are kept safe, just like my mother did to me before her murder, and unlike the way my father treated me, my brother, and my sister after her death...and I'll care for my own twins with just as much devotion, once they are born.
For your father, my mother, and my brother.
...*sigh*
Well, enough tears for now...*she wipes her eyes and smiles at Zach*
We should focus on the present. Is there anything you would like to do, dear?

Zach: Wait... your having children...?

Nublada: Oh, yes, I'm currently expecting twins in a few months...
...so Uncle Dust and I are gonna be parents soon enough, dear!
I'm v-very nervous about it, as I don't know if we'll be ready for parenting once they're born...we're still very young.
But we have you to care for also, which will help us get ready.
So yeah! *she smiles*

Zach: ... *confused* Wha...?

*it sits beside him and turns its head, the expressionless helmet looking directly at Zach*
Knightmare: H-how's life going back at the castle?
...it's been a while, hasn't it? *the Knightmare smiles, but the smile is slightly less horrifying than before*

Zach: ...It’s you...

Knightmare: I....have a message from the one controlling me...

* it's head shapeshifts into a cloudy purple replica of Stratus II's head*

Stratus II: H-hi, Zach...*he slightly smiles*

Zach: ...hello...

Stratus II: Oh, it's w-wonderful to see you!
This isn't my body, obviously...my body is destroyed, I'm pretty sure. But my existence still is somewhere in the wreckage from the explosion that I made to end my father.
...because I am of the dream kingdom's royal blood, my existence can be stored in the crystals I talked to you about earlier. So when my father died, he was destroyed because he was only a ghost, while my body helped to absorb my spirit into one of the crystals...allowing me to control some of the knightmares, at half capacity.
...it was worth saving my sister and her kind husband. Worth every painful tear in my human corpse.
I think there must be a crystal somewhere with my spirit and soul...

Zach: ...and?

Stratus II: ....I want you to find it. It should be a small, glowing fragment of purple crystal. Down there. *the Knightmare's arm points down to a crater at the bottom of the hill, and the fog parts away*
It shouldn't be hard to find...

Zach: Okay. *starts to run down the hill*

*the Knightmare tries to get up but trips and tumbles clumsily down the hill. The crater has many crystal fragments all around, and multiple of them are glowing.*

Stratus II: It should be glowing bright pink! And you'll hear my voice coming from it once you find my one...

*the head shapeshifts back into the knight helmet and the Knightmare stays still on the ground*

Zach: My father is dead...

Stratus II: ....Oh...
I knew something bad happened when I noticed your pain, Zach.
...I don't know how to help with that other than to just attend to you as a great friend.
I...I hope my sister is doing well taking care of you. I feel she will try even harder now than last time...
Hey, how are they, Zachary? My sister and her husband? I hope they're doing well-

Zach: They are...

Stratus II: *he smiles for once*
Aw, that's wonderful. I'll be able to spend my eternity here happily with that knowledge...
...if I can accept the fact that I'm stuck here, of course.
Hey, so...I want to give you something I said I would previously. You'll be able to take it into the physical world once you wake, I think...

Zack: ...?

Stratus II: *he takes out a bracelet adorned with the purple crystals, similar to the ring he had*
So...this thing will be a small gift from me, Zach. It allows you to capture and mildly manipulate Knightmares, in case that ever becomes an issue again. But more than all, I want you to have it so you will remember me as your friend, and as a sign that I'm still here for my two sisters...

Zach: Thank you...

Stratus II: Of course, bud! *he hugs him*
...
So, didn't your friends say something about dinner...?
...do you wanna stay here with me and continue resting, or go with them?
I'll wake you up if you do, or we can stay together for a bit meanwhile so you don't have to get up soon.

Zach: I think I’ll stay here with you for a bit.

Stratus II: Great! ....Ok....um...
...What are you currently up to in the physical world? I can just get glimpses of what was being said when you fell asleep, but I am pretty much clueless.

FYAB!Red: There was this really weird merchant. He was offering me a strange ring for free. So I took it.

Alexei: Oh yeah, that's not suspicious at all, right.

Vin: Hm...okay...
...is the ring what caused this...or did something else happen...?

FYAB!Red: So, I went back home to try it on to see how it felt.

Alexei: Mhm...?

Vin: ...

FYAB!Red: It actually fit pretty good. So I went to change my clothes and suddenly... I looked, and my d*ck was gone.

Alexei: *downs a glass of vodka again*
Ah, now that seems like an issue...So now you have a-

Vin: *slaps Alexei's mouth shut*
Just...don't. You're not wrong, but still. Ahem...
Hm. So I wonder who made that ring and why that merchant even gave it to you in the first place...

Alexei: ......You know what else could fit-

Vin: *punches Alexei hard in the face*
I'm so sorry other Red-
Ok...so...about the ring. Um...

FYAB!Red: And here I am now. I remember where the village was...

Alexei: Ow...*shifts his ushanka back in place*
...Damn, ok. *he drinks even more of his vodka*

Vin: Maybe we should return? What do you think...perhaps the solution is there...or...?

FYAB!Red: The guy running the shop knows.

Alexei: Do you think we should go there to see what's the matter with him? I don't know if that'll help you, but it's worth a shot, I guess...

Vin: Uh...and you still have the ring, so.

Red: *climbs up*

Kanisha: *they climb for some time and reach the top of the tallest mast, where the crow's nest (lookout deck) room is located*
Damn, I'm soaked from the rain...not that it matters.
I have no idea why they went up here, but that's not our issue. Isn't it such a lovely view from up here?
Ok, maybe we could go inside the room, this is a dangerous place to be during a storm...
*she looks at the door*

Red: Just keep going. *he keeps walking*

Kanisha: *she grabs him by the arm*
Watch your step, I'm not really in the mood to clean up a dead body in case you were to fall off and splat on the ground down below...

*the deck leads off to the left, and they hear a light sound of footsteps from there*

Maybe you're right, they might be hanging out near the ledge-

Red: Let’s go.

Kanisha: *she goes around the corner and stops suddenly*
Wha-
*they see a young man with long, fluffy black hair in a dark crimson robe standing by the railing, with his back turned to them. He is wearing a black hat and his coat flaps a bit in the wind*
...

Red: What did you do with Zack.

*the man turns around, and he is wearing a mask that heavily resembles Christopher's mask, with the exception that one half of it has one large eye rather than a puppeteer face*
???: Hello....? Should I know you....?

Kanisha: *she seems to be overwhelmed a bit*

Red: I asked you a question.

???: Zack? I don't know who that is...
...is he the boy that was aboard the ship earlier?

Kanisha: Yes...

???: ....Ah, I see...
...*the man looks out at the view*
He and the Prince are fine, don't be so worried...
...I'm here for other reasons, don't you remember, Captain?

Kanisha: ...um...I...don't-

???: Just what I thought.
Now scram before I'll have to make you go...

Red: You’re a bit crazy...

Vin: *nods*

Kanisha: ...*she smirks*
Oh, some people have said that about me before, so ya aren't alone in thinking that.
...I just live life to its fullest, not worrying about others' judgment too much! *she takes a sip of her drink again*
It's so sweet of you to say that, boys!

Cedric: ....is that even a compliment...

Kanisha: Oh, not entirely, but it's charming coming from them, Cedric.
Ok, I'm glad that ya boys like me too! I told ya you'd get used to it here with me!

Cedric: ...uh...

Red: It’s not like we’ll be on this boat forever.

...*she glances anxiously out the window nearby and continues eating*

Vin: Exactly.

Kanisha: Yeah, of course. But you'll be back once ya have to return home, whenever that might be. And It's not like ya have a choice, so that'll be fun! Right!? *she grabs her knife and stabs a small chunk of meat off of Red's plate, and she eats it*

Red: ...

Vin: Right...

Kanisha: Heh. What? I'm hungry...and ya seem to have a kind heart, most likely willing to share with me a bit! *she downs the rest of her drink and hands the glass to Cedric*

Red: *just eats*

Cedric: Well, I'll remove your plates once you're finished.

Kanisha: *finishes her plate and pushes it aside*
Ah, thank ya for sharing your trip with me, again.
Hey, I hope that you're feeling better now after getting some food to eat.

Vin: Yeah, I am, a bit.

Kanisha: And you have the whole ship to yourself to just relax and have a good time! Well, with me also!

Red: ...I have to admit, this is really good food.

Kanisha: *she smiles* Oh, wonderful!

Cedric: Thank you, sir. I was taught how to cook this by my family living in Japan-
the English half of my family doesn't cook much. They just drink tea all day.

FYAB!Red: Well then...

Zach: *reads the letter*

*Mailman walks away*

The letter reads:

{From: London, England; Sent to: Adam's residence}

Dear Adam,

I just would like to let you know that I think I'm getting closer to finding the solution to stop Sir Soul and help Martha! In fact, I traced his history back to England, so I've been here for the past few months searching for some girl named Alma Virginia, who has been dead for a long time. It took a long time and it was very tedious, but I found her soul using my scythe and I was able to bring her back to life somehow...and she's a sweet lady. I think that someday once I get enough information I will be able to return to the Dream Kingdom with her and then I'll plan what to do next. I'm eager to see you when I get to come back, since I love having your company! I hope my daughter's doing fine, and I hope your son and father are doing well also! Thank you so much for everything, bud, and I'm really excited to see you soon!

From your dear friend,
Christopher Ehlfen :D

Zach: ...I need to get to England.

Vin: Oh, it's from...Chris!
So he went to England, that's why we haven't seen him in a while...
...I'm sure he'd be glad to have your help, Zach, but England is kinda far from here.

Alexei: Eh, it's easy to get there...we've traveled a good amount in our lives...
...and he still doesn't know about what happened to Adam, so.

Zach: ...

Vin: Since we're getting somewhat close, we should get to the castle so Dust and Nublada can see you again before we decide if you want to go-

Alexei: ...Sure, why not.

*they walk towards the castle*

Zach: *keeps walking*

*they walk up to the castle doors*

Vin: Ok, we're here, Zachary. *he walks him and FYAB!Red into the castle*

Alexei: ...*follows after them*

Vin: I'd assume they're in the throne room...

Zach: Mhm...

Alexei: I'm gonna...take a walk...or something. *he walks toward the secluded garden behind the castle*

Vin: *walks Zach to the throne room*
Ok, here ya go.

*Nublada is relaxing on her throne, quiet, and she notices the two*

Nublada: ...Oh, hey, dear!

Red: Is Zach okay?

Cedric: Oh him? Um.....
....Vin and Zach are gone somewhere, I haven't seen them at all. And...Oh?! Captain, what happened to you!?

Kanisha: Oh, the bruise? I'll be fine...I don't remember why I'm hurt though-

Cedric: Oh okay...
Anyway, yeah...I'll go check some of the crewmember areas, in case they went somewhere-

Red: WHAT/

Cedric: Yeah, I did hear some footsteps near the roof exit...but I didn't check who it was.
...maybe they went there? You'll have to go to the engine room to reach there though-

Kanisha: *appears beside Red with her Captain's clothes on, though she didn't tie her hair up*
I just got dressed up real quick, I didn't want to be walking around without em, ya know!
You want to go check where Cedric mentioned...? *she smirks softly*

Red: Whatever, let’s go.

Kanisha: Ok, it's somewhere over here-
*she firmly grasps Red's hand and pulls him down the hall, speedwalking*

Cedric: *follows behind them*

Kanisha: Oi, the engine room's this way...

Red: -_-

Kanisha: *she brings them to the engine room, and a hatch with a ladder is near the back of the room*
Ok, Red, it should be right over there, I think.
...Hey, bro, I hope that we find them soon...I'm beginning to worry a bit-
I'm sure they'll be ok, though!

Cedric: After what happened to you, who knows-

Red: *runs to the back of the room*

Kanisha: *walks up to the ladder and opens the hatch*
Up here, you said?

Cedric: Mhm.

Kanisha: Oki! *she hops on the ladder and climbs up*
Follow me, Red-

Red: Oh wow.

Cedric: Mhm-

Kanisha: Oi! *she stands up*
I'm glad ya enjoyed it. So, whaddya think? You guys want to go to rest now or we could go do something together?
*she looks at Red with an innocent smile*

Red: I’m just... gonna go rest. *he walks away*

Vin: Me too. *follows him*

Kanisha: ...I-
...
I thought that I was-

Cedric: Ma'am, I don't think they like you too much...

Kanisha: *sigh* I guess so...

Red: *just flops on his bed* ...

Vin: *Climbs into his own bed on the other side of the room and huddles beneath the blanket*
So....um........seems the Captain's a bit much for you, huh?

Red: Yep.

Vin: I feel the same, she's a bit....unique, as the steward likes to say.
...
I'm glad the two children have been able to rest, they didn't need to be bothered by a stupid dinner gathering. I'm hoping the Captain will quiet down a bit over the next few days-

Red: How long will we even be on this boat-

Vin: I'm assuming, I honestly have no clue. Surprisingly, the Captain hasn't even told us yet...
...and that's a part of her job. She's too focused on unimportant things it's almost laughable. In her defense though, she's the only Sea Captain I've ever seen who's so young...so her energetic personality and brainless decisions might be part of that.
...

Ronan: Hmm?

Vin: I think I have something to tell him...
if it's the person I'm thinking it is.
...I might be wrong though...

Alexei: ...you probably are.

Vin: I mean it's worth a shot-
...so where is he?

Ronan: Hey kid!

Zachary: Yes...? *walks over*

Vin: ...I knew it!
...hey, Adam's son, it's good to see you...
Are you ok...?

Alexei: ...oh damn, it is him.
...A-adam's son...

Zachary: Uhm... Mhm...

Vin: It's uh...been a while...

Alexei: ...You gonna tell him?

Vin: Uh, yeah, I'll get to it...
...How'd you end up here? Your father was looking for you...I think...

Zachary: Well, it’s a long story...

Vin: Oh, ok...
...Well, I'm glad we found you, Nublada would be worried if we didn't...

Alexei: Mhm.

Vin: *sigh*
...H-have you heard about your father yet...?

Zachary; No... I FELT it.

Vin: ...yeah....he's dead...

Alexei: ...I'm s-sorry...

Vin: ...I....don't fully understand everything yet, all I know is that he wanted me to find some cartridge and mainly he wanted to make sure you were safe, I'm sure...

Zach: ...okay...

Vin: Ah, got it.

Alexei: ...Okay, Ronan, as a thank you for everything I want to buy something from you.
Is there anything that you think could be interesting?

Ronan: Why don’t you take a look!

Alexei: *checks some of the shelves*
Hmm....
....what's that....blade, over there?
It looks interesting....but does it do anything....?

Ronan: Well, it’s made out of a rare substance.

Alexei: Ah, interesting...
...what about those small objects? You have five of them, it seems...
Do they have something unique about them?

Ronan: Those are potions. My rarest.

Vin: Huh, I've heard that a shop in another village nearby the castle also has some potions.

Alexei: Ah, yes, but these are also unique.
What effects do some of these have? If you know what they do, that is.

Ronan: I’ve been studying some of them.

Vin: Hm....
...could I buy one, by any chance?
I don't know what I'll use it for, but it'll be cool to have, anyway.

Alexei: They do seem pretty mysterious.

Red: Capitan? What happened?

Kanisha: Oh, um...
*she sits beside him*
...We're in my cabin right now, and it seems to be cold and stormy outside...
I thought ya were sleeping in your own suite after we ate dinner...?
...why'd you come here...?
*she looks at him curiously*

Red: I... I didn’t. I woke up here.

*she looks confused as well, as if she had forgotten something*
Kanisha: *she pulls the blanket over her legs to keep warm*
I just...I don't even remember untying my hair-
...
Something must've happened while we were asleep...?
...*the candlelight reveals she has a big bruise on her cheek but she hasn't realized it yet*

Red: You have a giant bruise on your cheek-

Kanisha: *she feels her face*
Oh God...um...
...It h-hurts a lot...*she flinches a bit when she touches it*
I'm sorry you have to see me like this...you know, hurt and still in my pajamas.
...plus I haven't done my hair and I don't-
*sigh*
Oh, right, the bruise...I have no memory of how that got there-
...um...*she looks out the window, trying to remember*

Red: Well then. *tries to get out of the cabin*

*the door is locked and blocked off*

Kanisha: *gets up and walks over to him*
Damn it, it's locked-
...Someone must've hurt me, and then locked us both up in here...
But who?
...and why?
There are only like 3 other people on this ship!

Red: ...yeah. True- wait there are six, right?

Kanisha: *pauses a bit*
Yeah, you're right. But why do I feel like there's more-
...
Who knows. Let's get the hell outta here and try to see what we can do together...
Maybe if we bang on the door, somebody'll come try to help us get out of here....?

Red: I’m right here- OH MY GOD...

Vin: Aww, looks like the edgier Red got gender-swapped just like Dust did.
Hai other Red! *he smiles cutely*

Alexei: *sigh* Jesus Christ...

FYAB!Red: Vin, I am going to punch you.

Vin: Aww-

Alexei: *slaps Vin in the face*
There. Don't call her...er...him...cute. Please.

Vin: ...But-
He's Red but also a girl. What's more adorable?

Alexei: ...What did I say, Vin? No wonder you don't have a girlfriend yet.

Vin: Wha...yeah you're right-

Red: ...

Vin: Ahem...sorry.
...So what happened...?
Same as Dust, I assume?

Alexei: Probably. Anyway...
...*sigh*...Иисус Христос, что, черт возьми, происходит...
Okay, um...why are you a girl now...um...other Adam?

FYAB!Red: No sh*t Sherlock.

Alexei: I said WHY are you-
...Just forget it.

Vin: Red and I were the ones who helped Dust with this issue last time, but Adam was the one we needed most. Too bad he's dead again...
...So unless he had some of it left over from last time I don't know how we are gonna fix you...

Alexei: ...I wasn't with y'all back then so...I can't really help much.

FYAB!Red: Okay fine... I was looking through a forest earlier and I found a village in the middle of nowhere.

Alexei: Okay...and then?

Vin: ...Huh, strange-

Red: ...well...

Vin: Damn-
What about me...?

Kanisha: Oh, I've heard all about you, Prince. Anyways...
Go on, Red...

Red: I don’t want to talk about it...

Kanisha: ...Aw, you're a bit bashful about it aren't ya? I won't press on, don't worry!

*Cedric walks in and sets down a large plate of seafood in front of each of them*

Cedric: That's all, I'm pretty sure, ma'am.

Kanisha: Well thank you. *she leans forward a bit*
Ok, boys, is everything on this ship going just marvelous? Nothing you are a bit concerned by in any way?

Red: THAT CLOUD-

Kanisha: Ya worried about a little smoke? Come on, after all this time even I haven't gotten lung cancer yet, so you'll be fine, Red! *she smiles*

Red: T E L L M E .

Vin: Yeah, please...

Kanisha, in a calm and soft tone: Oh, Red, my friend, don't freak out over little things like this, oki? *she smiles warmly and places her hand on his*
It's nothing to worry about, and ya will be perfectly safe here with me, I can guarantee that.
*she pats his hand softly and returns her hand back to pick up her spoon*
Now come on, don't be so paranoid.

Red: Fine. -_-

Kanisha: Heh, good! *she sips a bit of her drink*

Vin: ...Well, ok then.

Kanisha: Oi, so this is lovely, having you boys here! I'll tell ya what, you're also gonna get a good night's rest once you go to sleep, for certain! The rooms are really comforting, as you know by now.
*sigh*
...I hope I'm not being a bit too much of a nuisance to ya.
It wasn't my intention...

Zach: ...my name...

Vin: *he puts his arm on his shoulder*
Well...
...
I wonder where the voices are coming from, and if they are calling you for a reason...
...are they saying anything else...?

Zack: I don’t know... *Zack’s eyes are glowing in a red color*

Vin: H-holy fudge...um...
...Zack...y-your eyes are...
Something's happening, I think...Are you feeling anything...?

Zach: ........ *faints*

Vin: 0-o
.........................oh sh*t.
....Um...*he looks at the harbor nearby*
W-what happened!?
*he picks Zach up*
Um...oh no, he fainted...
...What should we do, Red...?

Red: Just get him on the boat!

Vin: O-ok...*he hurries over to the ship*

*a sailor recognizes them*

Sailor: Hello there, I got a message from the Queen that you two are to take this ship to England, so you may board. The captain and their steward will be happy to show you around and lead you to your room.

Red: Good.

Vin: Then let's go on board!
*he carries Zach up the ramp onto the ship*
I wonder where the captain is...?

*a door opens in front of them, and they hear a voice from inside*
???: Oh, come in, please. I'm glad you're here!

Zach: I’m trying to finish something my father started.

Stratus II: Oh, that sounds awesome!
...I'm sure he'd be proud of you for whatever it is, Zach. He wasn't like my dad, from what I can tell!
He was more like my amazing mom.
...
I'm a bit curious...
You've never spoken much about your own mother....?

Zach: ...oh.

Stratus II: It's ok if you don't want to talk about her...
...she must've passed when you were very young, I'd assume?
Mine was murdered just a few years ago, so I remember her well.

Zach: ...

Stratus II: ...ok then...uh...
...*he looks down, a bit embarrassed*
Sorry. Um...
...I've noticed, you do seem hurt, you're kind of down a lot...
And it's justified, of course. Just try and remember all the good things about your life...
...I'm sorry, I'm not good at being optimistic-

Zach: *cries a bit* I just want to see my father again...

Stratus II: Oh, Zachary....
...I know how you feel right now...I've felt the same way before...
...
*he hugs him*
My mother is gone for all of eternity...
...So who knows if you'll ever see him again......*sigh*

Zach: *cries more* .........

Stratus II: .........*keeps hugging him*
...We just gotta hope that your destiny is a good one, unlike mine. And I feel like it will be...

Red: ... *already falls asleep*

*Kanisha opens the door and peeks in*

Kanisha, whispering: Goodnight, boys! *she accidentally drops a used cigarette which is emitting a small bit of smoke in the room*
Sorry-

Vin: *pretends to be asleep*

*Kanisha leaves and locks the door*

Vin: ...*yawns*
Red must've been really tired...and so am I...
*he switches off his night lamp and goes to sleep*

Red: *casually sleeps*

*muffled voices from right outside the room*
???: You sure it worked?
??: I think so. You should be able to take her back soon, but I'd give it a few hours...
???: Fine. And I need you to take him over to the cabin meanwhile. Ok?
??: I'd be glad to...
???: I'm sure you would. But this is for my family's safety, so be serious about it-

*Later, in what seems to be the next morning*

*Red wakes up in a different room, lying on a luxurious couch. The room is decorated with all sorts of maps and books, as well as some nice furniture.*

Red: What the...

*he hears a thunderstorm outside, and the ship sways back and forth a bit more than before. A small candlelight is on, and he sees the Captain sleeping on another couch near him. She has her hair down, and is huddled up beneath a silk blanket*

Red: .......

*another thunder noise cracks in the sky*

*Kanisha rolls onto her side for a second and is still sleeping*

Red: Where...

Kanisha, now barely awake: *yawn*...h-hello?
*she slowly sits up on the couch and looks around*

Zachary: .......

Vin: ...Just know that mama Nublada and Dust are open to help you again, in case you want someone to take care of you other than Ronan.
...Your dad...he...
*sigh*
He should be alive...but...

Alexei: ...It's sad...again, I feel sorry for you...
The things you've had to go through...you deserve better, comrade.

Zach: ............

Alexei: I think he just needs some time, Vin...

Vin: ...yeah, you're right. *he hugs Zach and remains silent*

Alexei: ...*he seems striken by guilt whenever he looks at Zach's face*
I...um...
...I'll let you be, kid. *he walks out the room*

Zach: *cries on Vin’s shoulder*

Vin: *keeps hugging him*
We need to find your grandfather...I think you two might get along well.
I haven't met him, but I heard of him, so.
...
I know it must be tough...especially now that your father's passed twice...
...you poor child...take your time...

Zach: O-Okay...

Alexei: *walks in again* Hey Vin...oh he's crying now....I...*he pats Zach on the back gently*

Vin: ...yeah. Um...so...

Alexei: S-should I get him something to eat...? It's the best I can do...

Vin: Thanks for the offer, Alexei.
Ok...um...
...What do you think you want to do next, Zachary? It's your call, I don't want you to feel like you need to do anything, cause I know this loss is hard for you.

Zachary: W-Where’s Nublada...

Vin: She's back at home...um...
...She'll be happy to take care of you, I'm certain.
It's not nearby...
...but we can bring her here or bring you there if you want.

Ronan: Whatever you find most interesting.

Vin: That one- *he points at one of the potions*
I have no idea what it is but still, it looks fascinating.

Alexei: *still looking around*

Ronan: Alright.

Vin: How much?

Alexei: ...*checks his pockets for coins*

Ronan: ...you know what. Since I’m a nice guy, I’ll let you have it for free.

Vin: Oh, Tha-

Alexei: *tosses down a small bag of gold coins on the counter*
You've already given us enough, my comrade. I want to pay you back, take it. *he smiles*
I'm the tsarevich of Vodkanada, it won't be an issue at all. It should be plenty enough for you to get some more equipment for your shop and some food, my friend.

Ronan: Thank you so much!

Alexei: Of course, is not a problem, comrade.

Vin: *reaches for the potion on the shelf but is too short to grab it*
Aw, I can't-

Alexei: *easily picks up the potion from the shelf and hands it to Vin*

Vin: I-
Oh wow. Um...thanks, Alexei...

Alexei: *smiles*
Ok, so, let's make sure Zachary is alright and we can get him back home...

Ronan: Have a great day!

Zack: ... *just follows Vin*

Vin: *pockets the potion*
You too, we'll return sometime in the future, I'm certain, Ronan!
*he walks out the door of the shop with Zach and Alexei*

Alexei: This is a neat place, honestly...
...*sigh*...I'm glad we ended up ok, I guess...

Vin: Yeah. Nublada's gonna be expecting us, we shouldn't delay. I think it's this way...?
*he walks with them in the general direction of the castle*

Ronan: Well, my name’s Ronan. Best merchant in the country, trust me, I have things that will blow your mind.

Alexei: I'm Alexei, and these are my friends Prince Vin and Red, but you've met him before.
Hmm...seems interesting...

Vin: That sounds awesome! What kind of things do you have...?

Ronan: Mostly stuff that can change you in a lot of ways.

Vin: Oh! Speaking of which...
...we came here because my friend got his gender swapped by some ring you gave him...

Alexei: Could I see some of the things you have...? I'm just curious...

Ronan: Oh! Can you give me the ring real quick.

*FYAB!Red gives Ronan the ring*

Ronan then destroys the ring, as soon as that happens FYAB!Red quickly turns normal*

Vin: Oh wow! That was easier than I thought it would be...
...thanks for helping him, man!

Alexei: ...Hm. This place is really interesting, eh...?

Ronan: Why don’t you come over to my place for a bit, I could show you a bit of stuff, and maybe give y’all some food?

Vin: Oh, I'd love to! Thank you, man!

Alexei: ...Sure, why not.

Ronan: Alright, come in! I’ve also been taking care of somebody. They may know you... *he walks inside*

*they both walk in*
Vin: Oh ok...sounds cool!

Alexei: You've got a nice place...
*he looks around a bit*

Zach: *looks around* ...

*after a few minutes of searching, he collects three crystals from the ground which he feels might be the right ones. All of them are glowing*

Zach: ...hmm?

*he listens to the voices coming from each one. Crystal one has a Canadian accent and is constantly talking about pancakes and maple syrup. Crystal two's voice has a light Spanish and British accent and is saying "Hey!". Crystal three's voice has a very British accent and is talking about clouds, as well as tea.*

Zach: *looks at the second one*

*It whispers: Now smash this thing onto the ground as hard as you can...*

Zach: ... *smashes it onto the ground*

*a burst of light explodes out of it, and the Prince's ghost is sitting on the ground where he broke it*

Stratus II: ...I-it worked! And it wasn't too hard.
*he flies over to Zachary and hugs him*
T-thanks...
...I don't think I'll be able to make it into the physical world just yet...but...
At least this is a start.
...And yeah, I'm really dead.

Zack: .....

Stratus II: Are y-you good, Zachary...?
The last time we met we were both living with hurtful events around us...
...and you were there to comfort me.
*he hugs him tightly*
I want to make sure you feel better...you seem quite saddened, bud...

FYAB!Red: It’s confusing.

Vin: Ah, ok. Hopefully we'll find out something while we are there.

Alexei: Yeah, sure.

Vin: Um...so...
...*is tempted to pat FYAB!Red's head*

Alexei: Don't....

FYAB!Red: ...

Vin: *pokes FYAB!Red on his nose*
Ah, I'm sorry. I just thought you looked ador-

Alexei: Comrade, you are really annoying, you know, Vin?
It's not even funny. At all.

Vin: Heh. Fine.
...My bad.

FYAB!Red: O////O

Vin: Awww, is someone blushing...? How cute...

Alexei: ....*whispering to himself* Oh God please kill me-

FYAB!Red: Vin... please stop...

Alexei: YES PLEASE STOP!

Vin: *he laughs a bit and pats FYAB!Red's back*
Ok, man, I'll stop. It's just funny-

Alexei: It's NOT funny, Vin.

Vin: I guess. Hopefully, we can find a way to help you once we find this village you mentioned, edgier Red.

FYAB!Red: And here it is now. *they arrive at a village that looks like it was abandoned*

Villager: Look! Ronan! He’s come back!

??? (Ronan): *steps out of a house* Ah, I’ve seen that you’ve come back.

Alexei: Oi! This is the place, eh? And hello there, who are you, comrade...?

Vin: ...

Zach: That’s wonderful...

Nublada: Mhm!
But don't worry, I won't divert my attention from you, I still will make sure you are cared for, dear.
...ok, so, I want to know about the letter...
Christopher sent it to your father, right? Do you think he was subtly implying for your father to come to England and help him? Since he's probably lonely over there, without his wife and daughter...just with that girl he mentioned...

Zach: I need to get over there... I want to finish what my dad started...

Nublada: *she smiles at him*
You know what, I feel as if you are responsible enough for it. And I do want to be a good mother, and letting you go would be a part of that. So I will be happy to help you get there, dear.
...
You can travel by boat, we have ships that sail to England from our ports all the time.
...
Also...If I were you, I'd go bring Chris's daughter with you for him along the way...
She's still a baby if I'm not mistaken, and I think Chris wanted Adam to take care of her while he was gone.

Zach: Okay...

Nublada: So, just let me know once you're ready to go...
...I'll tell you where his house is so you can pick her up and I'll lead you to the port.
Would you like anyone to go with you, dear? Or do you think you'll be fine alone...?

Zach: I will need some help...

Nublada: Who do you think should go with you, then?
I could get the general to go with you, he's a sweetheart. He does a better job as a nurse or caretaker than an army general anyway. Vin or Alexei could go also, maybe one of the Adams, maybe my sister, whoever you think would be best...and I assume none of them will be too busy to go, dear! So, you can pick a person who you want to assist you on your trip.

Red: Uh- I could go.

Nublada: *she smiles*
Oh, of course! You just make sure that he stays safe on your trip. While there, you'll have to find Christopher...take the letter for that, it probably has an address on it to somewhere in London.
...and don't forget Chris's daughter.
After fetching her, you could probably go to the port since it is near the village, and a ship will probably be waiting there and you'll be allowed to board it. I can come with y'all to the harbor, but I won't get on the ship because I have to stay here. Ok?

Zack: ........

Stratus II: M-maybe you could use some dinner, perhaps?
Something to eat might make you feel a tad better...only if want to wake up though...
...Vin or Red might wake you up soon since it was nearing the time to go-
I'm not certain, but I'd guess so.

Zack: Maybe...

Stratus II: Whatever you think's best, bud.

Zack: ...

Stratus II: ................I'll take that as a not yet...

*meanwhile*

Vin: *lying on the bed, reading a book*
Ay Red, they really do have interesting stuff here!
...*he places the book aside*
I'm sure the steward'll call us to come over for dinner any minute now.

Red: Yeah. True.

*there is a soft knock at the door and Cedric quietly walks inside*
Cedric: Hey, dinner's ready for you two, and the Captain's waiting. So come as soon as you can. *he smiles*

Vin: Ok, great. *looks at Zach sleeping*
Should we awaken him for dinner now or let him rest and bring him something to eat after, Red?

Red: Let him sleep, he’s had a rough day.

Vin: That's what I was thinking. Besides, meeting the captain would only make his day worse-

Cedric: Oh, she's not bad, please-

Vin: Whatever. *he gets up and walks to the door*

Cedric: Follow me, I'll lead you there...*he walks out into the hallway*

Ronan: So... what do ya want to see first?

Vin: ...I want f o o d n o w.
*he walks around to find the kitchen*

Alexei: Oh, maybe some of your items that effect the user. I'm curious, what types of changes can occur with some of them?

Ronan: Alright then. Follow me Russian boy. *he walks near a sign that says “transformations”* Here.

Alexei: *follows him*
Ah, I see...so the ring was one of these. Interesting....
What do some of these things do in specific...?

Ronan: Uhm... well, they kinda change your genes to... a lot of things.

Alexei: I meant specific examples, but ok, thanks for the info.

Vin: *eating cake while he walks up to them*
Hey. So these are the "transformation" things?

Alexei: Mhm. I wonder why Red decided to get one of these...without realizing what they did, most likely.

Ronan: Well, I can make you half creature...

Alexei: I'll pass...
...I somewhat enjoy being me, not gonna lie.

Vin: Heh, yeah.
...
Um...earlier you said that you were caring for someone here that we might know...
...who and where are they?

Ronan: I dunno, he said his father is gone. And his mother is dead.

Alexei: Hm, I don't really know.

Vin: ...sounds....familiar...
Can I see him...?
...I think I know who he might be...

Zach: ...Zach.

Red: ...

Elisabeth: And him?

Vin: He's Red.

Elisabeth: Oh, how sweet. I'll remember your names in case there's an issue, ok?
Good luck, boys. *she smiles at them and walks down the street*

Vin: Ok, we have the child now...I think the harbor is...that way?
*he looks down a road leading to the left side of the house, away from the village centre*

Zach: It could be over there...

Vin: Follow me, then, past this inn...
*he walks down the road and onto a path that leads through a forested garden*
I'm pretty sure it's just a little bit this way, once we get to the ocean.
...This reminds me of when Chris brought Cherry to me for the first time...heh. I shouldn't mention her right now, I'm sorry.
...
We'll be at the port soon, don't worry.

Zach: ...

*they walk through the garden for a while, and now the docks are visible in the distance, along with a large ship*

Vin: Ay! There it is! We'll be there in no time.

*he continues walking with them down the path*

Zach: Huh...?

Vin: What is it...?
...We'll be fine, don't worry...
It's not gonna be like Jonathan Joestar's ship when he was going to New York.
That would be unfortunate.
...Come on.

Zack: No... I hear voices.. in my head...

Vin: *he looks at him a bit startled*
Uh...o-ok...
...
Who are they...? What are they saying....?

Red: *follows Cedric* Amogus.

Cedric: Oh, will you cut it with the calling her "sus" and stuff? She's a pleasant and kind lady, just a bit unique-

Vin: Hehe, you like her a lot, don't you, Cedric-

Cedric: Shut up. She's my boss, that's why. *he walks up to the dining room doors*
Be on your best behavior, please...and you may enter. *he pushes the door open and waits for them to go in*

(idk if you saw already but look at these two precious smol beans: imgflip.com/i/55dq6p :3)

(Yeh, I saw them and updoot. :D )

Red: *walks in* .-.

(Yay! ^w^)

*Vin walks in behind him*
*the room is lit by a chandelier hanging from the ceiling and a few luxurious tables are located around the room. The Captain is sitting at one of the tables which has two empty chairs in front of it, and she grins as they walk in*

Kanisha: Oh, how lovely of you boys to come here! *she walks up to Red and Vin and hugs them extremely tight*
I'm sure ya will love what we've prepared! Come on, sit down, boys! *she walks back to the table and sits back in her chair, pointing to the two empty ones.*

*Cedric closes the door and walks into another door to the left side of the room*

Red: O-Okay? *sits down in one of the chairs*

Vin: Heh, ok...*he sits down in the other one*

Kanisha: I'm glad you're here, boys! Come on, it's a nice ship, isn't it, eh?

Vin: Uh, Yeah.

Kanisha: Cedric will be out with our food soon enough, don't ya worry.
So, what exactly are you gonna be up to while in England? It must be important, huh?

Red: I... honestly don’t know

Kanisha: Well, you brought that baby, eh?

Vin: Yeah, that's a man named Christopher's daughter...do you know him?

Kanisha: I think so...
...Chris Ehlfen, is that right?

Red: Yeah. That should be him.

Kanisha: *she grins*
Ah, how delightful......
...
Red, can you explain to me a bit about you...I would love to know a bit more about the boy behind that handsome face, eh?
*she fidgets with some silverware and smiles at him*

Red: Hold on, HEY VIN! WE’RE GOIN’ TO ENGLAND!

Vin: *runs up to the three of them*
OH YEAH, I'M IN! YAY!

Nublada: .....yeah he can go with you too.

Vin: *eats cake*
Ay, I'm glad to go with you two!

Red: ...that potion, what is it for?

Vin: ...oh, this? *he takes it out*
It's just some strange little thing I bought from some shopkeeper...I have no clue what it does, though.
...Maybe in England, we'll find a use for it? Who knows.
The merchant said that he didn't know either, but I thought it looked cool so I picked it out.
For certain, someday I'll use it and hope it has a positive effect.

Red: Yeah...

Nublada: Don't feel the need to rush, but let me know when you guys are ready so that I can notify the sailors to get the ship prepared.

Vin: Sure, I'm ready to go whenever you guys are!

Red: I mean, I have all the guns I need.

Nublada: Try not to murder too many English blokes while you are there.

Vin: Oh, I'm sure it won't go south, Nublada!

Nublada: With you two, it could go anywhere...just saying.

Vin: You're not wrong. Ok, so, you ready, kid? *he pats Zach's back*

Zach: Yep. I’m ready.

Nublada: *hugs Zach*
Good luck out there, my dear.
And to Red and Vin, good luck to you boys as well!

Vin: Of course! We stop off at the village first, right?

Nublada: Mhm.

Vin: Let's go!

Zach: *stays silent*

Alexei: *pats Zach's back with guilt*

Vin: ...*keeps walking with them*

*a young mailman bumps into Zach on accident and trips onto the ground, dropping a few letters*

Zach: *falls over* AH-

Vin: Huh...?

Alexei: Eh, watch it!

Mailman: I-I'm s-so sorry, sir...*notices Prince Vin and that he tripped Zach*
P-please, forgive me! I w-was just...
*he scrambles to get the letters, but Zach notices one of them says [To: Adam Dreemurr]

Zach: Wait... that letter...

Mailman: Uh...yes...? It's for a man named Adam...
...I've tried delivering it to his house, but he hasn't responded to the doorbell.
D-do you know him by any chance....?
*he helps Zach to get up*

Zach: Yeah... he’s my father.

Mailman: O-oh then, could you deliver it to him for me, since he's your father?

Alexei: Um...that won't be possible...

Zach: Yeah... my father is dead...

Mailman: O-oh my...

Alexei: Mhm...

Mailman: I'm s-so sorry...um...
...I guess you should keep the letter, since you're his son...
*he hands it to Zach apologetically*

Zach: Yep, village first.

Nublada: *waves at them* Later!

Vin: See ya! *walks with Zach and Red out the room and down the hall, exiting the main entrance*
It's a short walk from here, no problem...
*he walks down a path leading to the village*

Zach: *looks at the village in the distance*

Vin: I've been to his place before...you know, I know him a bit.
*they walk down the path and enter the village center, near the pearly white fountain*
His place is over there- *he points to a little alley where a small cozy shop fits snug between two buildings*
His daughter's in the place, probably being taken care of by somebody he knows. But we should bring her back to her father, so we can go get her.
*they walk to the front of the shop*

Red: ...hmm.

Vin: ...*knocks on the door*
...
*the door opens up, and a young peasant lady, most likely a neighbor, is at the entrance*
...
???: Hello? What are you here for?

Red: Is there a child here? We need to bring her to her father.

???: Oh, Christopher's daughter? She is here...
But why should I trust you with her?

Vin: Hey, lady, it's me, you know. We will make sure she is kept safe and returned to her father.

???: *she looks at Vin and recognizes him*
Oh, I'm sorry, sir. She's inside resting on the sofa...*she points to the small living room*

Vin: Very well, then!

*the girl picks up the child and brings her to the group*
???: Ok...um...please be careful. I want her to be fine, ok?

Red: Of course ma’am.

???: *she walks out the door and places the child in Red's arms*
Ok, it's risky but I'll trust ya. In case you need to know, my name is Elisabeth. I'm a neighbor of Martha and Christopher, and also a good friend of theirs. You are Prince Vin and...?

*she locks the door behind her*

Red: Will the kids be okay?

Kanisha: ...
I'm certain they will, Red. There's enough room in here for each of ya to get comfortable and relax!
Enjoy yourselves, boys! Cedric, help them get prepared...

Cedric: Yes, ma'am. *he begins preparing two beds, one for Zach and one for the baby*

Kanisha: *she pats Vin's head, which he gets annoyed by*
I'll see ya soon, boys. I just gotta make sure everything else is entirely up and running so we can set sail! *she winks at Red and walks out the door, closing it behind her*

Cedric: ...*sigh*...what do you two think...?

Vin: *sets Zach on one of the beds*
Oh-

Red: This is nice. Does she always act that sus.

Cedric: Oh, the captain...
...you want me to be honest....?

Vin: Yes.

Cedric: Yeah, she is a very strange lady...
...it's probably from the years at sea, but she tries her best to be upbeat and she ends up seeming off-putting...sorry about that. And if she's hiding something from me that she intends to do with you, I have not heard of it yet. *he picks up the baby, who is asleep, and sets her down in a small bed*

Red: And the cloud?

Cedric: *he hesitates a bit before speaking*
...S-she smokes generic ordinary non-suspicious cigarettes, that's all! Y-yeah! That's it!

Vin: ...There's more to it than that, I can tell...

Cedric: W-what? Of course n-not!
...j-just don't worry about the Captain, you'll get used to her, I promise. Maybe not. But still, she'll do whatever she thinks is best for you two, I'm sure!

Red: TELL ME WHAT THAT CLOUD WAS!

Cedric: *he jumps back in fear*
S-sir, I'm sorry, I can't let you know what type of cigarette she smokes because she doesn't want other people buying it. Y-you know, that could make waiting lines longer when buying them!

Vin: That is just a sh*t excuse, Steward!

Cedric: N-no it's not! Um...uh...
You two won't have to worry about it until you're sleeping, anyway. I m-mean you won't have to worry about it ever! Just let the girl smoke in peace, or I'll lose my j-job!

Red: *grabs a pistol* Tell. Us.

Cedric: *his face flushes a pale white and he freezes in place*
I-I....I'm s-so sorry, sir! Uhm....uh...

Vin: Heh, go on...tell us. Now.

Cedric: Y-you wouldn't kill me in front of the children, w-would you?
Please, I'm begging you...d-don't hurt me!

Vin: I can make it worse. *he shows him his sword*
Come on. Share with us, won't you...?

Cedric: Ok...um...
...the s-smoke is a bit unique...but...
Your lives are not in danger from her! I promise!

Red: Just tell us what it does.

Cedric: ....it....um...*he pauses a bit to recollect his thoughts*
It...kinda...makes you sleep more soundly, she puffed it onto you two so that you can feel better once you wake up. I don't know any other specifics...but...she told me never to tell you anything.
...so I'll be fired if you let her know what I said.

Vin: ...she might be keeping something from you...

Cedric: ...*he nervously smiles*

Red: ...

Cedric: She trusts me with things. She wouldn't hide something from me, sir. I know her well, so trust me. Everything will be all right...

Vin: .......

*a faint horn sound can be heard through the walls*

Cedric: Ok, we're setting sail now! She needs me to go and prepare the dinner table, and since we have you two over she would love to spend time with you in a bit once dinner starts, I'm sure.
Don't worry, I think she likes you, she just has her quirks...I'll return here in a few minutes!

Zach: *starts waking up* .......

Vin: *notices him*
Oh! Zach!
...are you alright? What happened back there....?

Zach: I don’t really know... I saw my aunt.

Vin: ...Adam's sister...
She was the one who...
...
She loved your father, Zachary. She protected him, and I hope she wants the same for you...
Did she speak to you? Was there anything else you could pick up?

Zach: She told me about a lot of things... my father’s past... universes... the power that I hold...

Vin: *he hugs Zach*
Oh, I'm happy she is still there! With you!
...you are very important for the future, it seems, I want you to know that.
You are probably destined to complete anything your father wasn't able to in his lifetime, and for that, you mean the world to her. And Chris. And Nublada. and for all of us, Zachary. I don't mean to act fatherly, but it's true. *he smiles*

Zach: ...

Nublada: My sister told me of what happened...
...It's so depressing...*sigh*
O-of course, I will be open to care for you again as one of my own, my dear.
I will try my best to keep you together...
...and I hope I won't fail this time, sweetie. *she gets up and hugs Zach*

Vin: ...

Zach: *hugs back* ...........

Nublada: Shh.......take your time, dear. I know you're going through a lot...
...I myself have been exhausted as of late, but you are my priority, Zach. Just let me know if you need anything...

Vin: ...*slightly smiles*

Zach: Okay...

Vin: We got this letter for Adam from Christopher...

Nublada: That shopkeeper?

Vin: Yes, but...
...I have a feeling he's not any ordinary villager...
*he shows her his real last name*

Nublada: .....There's no way...

Vin: Yes, I'm pretty sure that's what it seems...
They still exist. And Sir Soul is still hunting the family down...

Nublada: ...He needs to be protected. We can't let the monster end that man's bloodline...
...
*she notices Zach again*
Sorry, dear. This letter just seemed really important. How about you go get some rest...or something to eat, perhaps? Whatever it takes to help you feel a bit better, sweetie.

Zach: Okay. *walks away*

FYAB!Red: ...

Nublada: *looks over at Zach*
I....have something to ask him......
...something I've been restless about...pardon me, boys.*she follows Zach*

Vin: Oh, so, Edgier Red...
*shows him the potion*
Alexei bought me this from Ronan...
...it's interesting, hm? I wonder what it does...?

FYAB!Red: Hell if I know.

Vin: ...yeah.
I'll probably just find someone to examine it in the future, I guess.

*meanwhile*

Nublada: Zachary, dear? I had wondered something earlier...
...about when you were dreaming, back when you were with us previously. Could I ask a quick question...?

Red: Kay.

Vin: *grabs Red's arm and pulls him in*

*the room seems to be a fine dining room, and a woman wearing a lavish sailor's outfit is sitting at a table near the door with her legs kicked up on the table, smoking a cigarette. A thin, neat boy in a dark red uniform is standing beside her, smiling softly at Red and Vin*

???: Oi there mate, looks like ya going to England, eh? *the girl smirks*
It's a mighty fine place, I've been there a bunch. I'm Captain Kanisha, by the way. And this here is your steward, Cedric. He'll take care of your room while you're on the ship, boys.

Cedric: *gives a welcoming nod*

Red: I’m Red. The passed out boy is Zack.

Vin: Mhm. I'm Vince, but you can just call me Vin, and the baby belongs to a man we're looking for.

Kanisha: Oh, that's lovely. Red, Eh? Heh-
*she stands up and puts a hand on her hip*
Seems you need to put the girl and the boy somewhere safe, like in your room.
I can show ya around if you'd like, boys. *she puffs out a small cloud of smoke and smiles*

Cedric: ...*he waits by her side*

Red: ...what was that cloud about-

Vin: Yeah...

Kanisha: ...Hehe, it's nothing. I should get this place ventilated probably...
*she points to the roof, which has some smoke lingering at the top*

Cedric: *stays silent*

Kanisha: *she puts an arm on Red's shoulder*
Come on, you should get comfortable, I'll show ya around, and it'll be a great time here!
Everyone loves my ship, I'm sure you will too!

Red: (image)

Cedric: *nods at what Red said*

Kanisha: Hah, how lovely, Red. Trust me, you'll be used to being around me soon enough!
Cheer up, will ya? *she grins and pats his back*

Vin: Captain, we've been through some sh*t recently...

Kanisha: Aw, is that so? An even better reason to try and be happy! Come on, boys, I'll show ya to your room! *she tightens her ponytail and points to a door near the front of the room*

Red: Fine...

*she motions for them to follow her and walks through the doors and into a hallway*
Cedric: *walks beside Red and Vin, a little embarrassed*

Kanisha: To the left is the swimming pool, to the right you'll find the kitchen, and down the hall are the living quarters! My cabin is at the very end, and that's where I'll be in case ya want to see me!
*they walk down the hallway and arrive at a room labeled "Royalty and VIP Suite"*
Oi, here we are, boys! It'll suit you fine, I'm certain!
*Cedric unlocks the door and leads them inside*

Vin: ...*sigh*

Zach: Guess so...

Vin: You are important, ok? *he pats his back*

Ok, for your information, we're on the boat to England, and it's set sail. Dinner is gonna be ready soon, a steward will notify us when we can go to eat in the dining room. And, everything seems to be going....mostly.......smoothly!
We're all here in this warm luxurious suite, the baby is resting as usual, and everything is nice and calm. For the most part.
I'm glad that we came, honestly.

Zach: Well, that’s good... I’m still a bit tired...

Vin: Oh...well, we will come back here to rest after dinner. Or you could go back to sleep now...
...whatever you'd like, Zachary.

Zach: *falls asleep again* ......

Vin: ....shhh, let's not wake him...
He deserves some more rest.
*he puts the blanket over Zach*

Red: Yeah...

*meanwhile in Zach's dream*

*Zach finds himself resting on a hill under a sakura tree, surrounded by pink and purple fog. it's very peaceful and quiet, and a gentle breeze passes by*

Zach: ...oh no... a purple cloud. That’s a bad sign...

*out of the clouds appears a Knightmare, but instead of a tall, intimidating knight, the Knightmare is a short and somewhat clumsy knight. It approaches Zachary and trips once on its way to him*

FYAB!Red: So are we going?

Alexei: If that's whA- *trips on FYAB!Red's foot and faceplants on the ground*
F*ck...

Vin: *sigh*
Anyway...
...sure! If you think it's the best decision, we can go with you!

FYAB!Red: Alright...

Vin: Since...you know how to get there.

Alexei: *gets up and dusts himself off*
Er, yeah. We're...um...fine to go.

Vin: Hey, other Red, why do you seem so embarrassed when you're a girl...you get all nervous and shy. It's kinda cute-

Alexei: ...Oh please....

FYAB!Red: Don’t expect me to be like this forever. *”she” walks into a forest*

Vin: Heh, I know. *follows after "her"*

Alexei: ...ok then. *follows both of them*

FYAB!Red: It’ll take a while.

Alexei: How bad can it be? I've traveled a lot, comrade.

Vin: Oh, ok...
Well, I'm fine with that! More time to joke about you being a girl, and to flirt with you even though I know I shouldn't.

Alexei: *sigh*

FYAB!Red: I swear to God, Vin-

Vin: Hah. *he smiles and hugs him*
Come on, bud, calm down a bit.

Alexei: Dude, don't bother him...
...I've had to much vodka now and even I'm smarter than you. If you ever get genderbent I'll make sure you get the same treatment.

Vin: Don't give our creator ideas...
...and ok then. So, edgy girl Red, what was this shop like?
Do you think the merchant accidentally gave you this ring or what?

Red: Well... it all started when Adam befriended Chris by accidentally possessing his wife while he was dead and then Adam killed himself while in Martha’s body but then This Samuel guy who is a ghost accidentally dropped Adam’s soul and then he somehow came back to life but then after he told me everything he killed himself, so now we are heading to England to find Chris and now we are here.

Alessandro: *pauses a bit to take in all the information*
Oh...that's...a lot....I didn't know you knew him that much-
And Samuel Soul...*he clenches his fist when he says his name*
...Sorry, I suspected that you and your obsessive girlfriend-

Kanisha: I'm not-

Alessandro: -Obviously, just let me finish...
....I thought the Captain was helping you kidnap Chris's daughter or something...so I came aboard to try and prevent it. Now that I know otherwise...
...I'll show you to your friends.

Kanisha: But why'd you have to hurt me so badly-

Alessandro: Shhhhh...
...come on, let's go back down.

Red: I already have a bad*ss girlfriend.

Alessandro: I know, I didn't mean the Captain WAS your girlfriend at all obviously, I was just jesting on how damn attached Kanisha gets to people-

Kanisha: Oh come on-

Alessandro: Hah. Anyway, I'm gonna get on with this- *he climbs down the ladder*

Kanisha: Damn, Red, I know that you dislike me but this guy really hates me...
...*sigh*
Oh well, what gives? Let's go see what he's talking about-

Red: *climbs down the ladder*

Alessandro: *leads them through the engine room and into the hallway*

Kanisha: *she tugs softly on Red's arm* Oi! How about we all go and have fun later! We could go for a swim in the pool or relax on the deck-

Alessandro: Oh, quiet. Shut it now, please. *he walks in front of a locked door to a different bedroom than the one the group stayed in*
Ugh, here it is...

Kanisha: *tries to open the door*
It's l-locked!?

Alessandro: Obviously.

Red: And the key?

Alessandro: *takes the key out of one of his pockets*
Ok, here-
*he drops the key into Red's hand*

Red: BUT WHERE ARE THEY *SSHOLE?!

???: ....Oh, you really think you're gonna stand up to me like that?
*he pokes Kanisha's bruise and she flinches a bit*
A short temper, hm?
*he shoves the Captain aside*
Ok Red, you want to know where they are?
...*he looks at him a few seconds*
I think I might have heard them locked up in some of the nearby bedrooms. You can go check there...

Kanisha: I-is that so...?
*she seems as if she's trying to remember something*

Red: Why the heck are you here.

Alessandro: My name is Alessandro. And that is nothing you need to worry about...

Kanisha: *she suddenly remembers something*
A-Alessandro!?
I remember now! You were the one that-
*he covers her mouth with his hand and thrusts her against the wall while he is still facing Red*

Alessandro: Just shut up, Captain. Nobody wants to hear any of your sh*t. We ALL find you really annoying...so just leave us alone.
Ahem, as I was saying...I think I might know where the key to get them out is, if they are where I'm expecting they are.
*Kanisha struggles to escape his grasp for a few seconds but then gives up*

Red: And the girl.

Alessandro: .........
...sure.
We can go check if they're over there.

*Kanisha kicks Alessandro's leg but he doesn't react to it*

Alessandro: Let's go investigate, hm?

Red: AND THE GIRL.

Alessandro: ...
*he releases the Captain and pushes her toward Red*
You're making this harder than it should be. *sigh*
Let's just go help your damn friends-

Kanisha: *gasps for air a bit*
Oh dear God Alessandro why would-

Alessandro: Be quiet or else your body'll be plummeting into the Atlantic ocean, you got it?!

*he walks to the ladder hatch*

Come on, let's get on with it- *he adjusts his mask*

Kanisha: ........

Red: We need to get the baby to a guy named Chris Ehlfen.

Alessandro: ..............
....Christopher?
Oh! Would I love to see him again!
He's still alive! And he has that daughter too...

Kanisha: Yeah, he does. As you know, she's on the ship-

Alessandro: Of course I know that, it's what I-
...But wait, really?
You were trying to help bring the baby to him...?
......