[CONTINUE + 2] INTRO

[foundationmods]

[After so long a trip, you're all finally here. Taken through a hidden passage inside of the very mountain itself, you find yourself standing in front of a field of flowers, growing well due to the open roof above it. If you look up, you can just make out the shimmering colors off of the barrier - looking almost like the shine off of a soap bubble.

Try not to trample on the flowers as you approach the open, purple gate, where it looks as if someone is waiting for all of you just inside. And remember to wear your masks, now that you're here!

...Still, the sight of the yellow flowers waving in the wind....such a cheery sight fills you with determination for what's to come.

Welcome to the Underground.

...Again. The loop happened again, and you're here. Everything is the same.

Someone who was dead is alive again.

...The man, who's name you forgot...You've also forgotten what he looked like.

Not only that, But more monster names have faded from your memory.

Ghost? There was never a ghost in these ruins, or in Waterfall. You have no memory of them.]

Comments

[dereban]

Yeah - and that's a good thing. Although I am rather concerned for her, given...

[The look that the possessed dog gave her at the end of the last loop.]

I think she's the type [as far as she's aware] that can take care of herself, but I'm worried nevertheless. Although I can't say it's to the same amount as those from the Camp group.

[oceanicbutterfly]

That still raises the question of how it got like this in the first place.

[dereban]

We cut a really big boulder.

[whirlingmace]

[ It should look the same. Once they are there, she's turning back to normal before throwing her arms around him. ]

Cinquey thinks we should come up with a code. Something you guys can say when you think you found me so I'll know and can give you what I find.

[oceanicbutterfly]

...still, the fact that someone didn't leave it makes it seem more important.

[improbablenotimpossible]

I suppose we can test it now. On something that isn't going to cause problems.

[justonezero]

One giant slice of boulder cake?

[dereban]

Well, guess we'll just have to clean it up and find out what it does, then.

[justonezero]

Inaba suggested a giant boulder!

[dereban]

Yep. That way, we can split it amongst the group.

[justonezero]

[Hugged! He's hugging back, although he does raise his head a bit at her words, tilting it thoughtfully.]

Ohhh, a code word, huh...

[Hmmm...]

What if we call you "Aoi" this time? Like, "Wait, is that you, Aoi?"

Or is that too weird?

[Because Blueski.]

[le_mat]

... yeah.

[He looks down at his gun, a sad smile on his face]

If people are looking to you... and you break... it feels like all you're doing is hurting them.

[le_mat]

It's fine. I'll just make sure to yell at you sometimes.

[le_mat]

Heh, I guess.

[Now that his gun is put back together:]

Is that a hint to be productive?

[le_mat]

[he nods]

The world would be less without you. A lot of people would be sad for a long time. And not just that... think of all the things you would miss out on- things you love.

[le_mat]

...hey.

[He smiles, a little watery, at her]

[le_mat]

Gotta keep this fine body in shape after all.

[He gets up, closing his tool box and putting it back in his inventory]

1/2

[oceanicbutterfly]

That's--

2/2

[oceanicbutterfly]

...actually, that's a good point.

[justonezero]

I don't mind a test like that!

[dereban]

Basically.

[Her words are kind - in a way that's sounding just a little strained.]

That's why it's easier to focus on everyone else. But - I know it's unfair, to have to saddle those sorts of expectations on everyone. To make it so that I'm not allowed to shatter... or to force others to act in a way that they have to mask their pain around me.

Because something like that only tears me up even more. I'd rather have a balance... I guess? To be able to have my friends be able to rely on me, but be open enough to do the same. That's the kind of person I want to be.

[Her voice is too soft as she says those words.]

[dereban]

Right? Besides - I think everyone needs cake. For levity, or something like that.

[justonezero]

I have to agree with you there.

[justonezero]

Eh? Really?

[finalring]

That would probably be useful at any time. Your coffee's excellent.